Child Quote by Lillian B. Rubin
“Children crawl before they walk, walk before they run--each generally a precondition for the other. And with each step they take toward more independence, more mastery of the environment, their mothers take a step away--each a small separation, a small distancing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Motherhood Manifesto by Lillian B. Rubin, 1993
Children develop skills sequentially, and each new independence creates a subtle emotional distance between child and mother.
In simple terms: Kids grow, moms step back.
Key Takeaway
Respect the child's growing autonomy.
Themes
development
parenting
independence
separation
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
advice
psychological
When to use this quote
- parent‑child bonding
- educational settings
- family counseling
Key Concepts
psychology
attachment theory
growth stages
Questions to Reflect On
- How can mothers support independence while staying emotionally connected?
- What rituals help maintain closeness during transitions?
A Different Perspective
Mothers may feel loss of closeness, which can cause anxiety.
