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Child Quote by Lionel Shriver

“I suspect that children want their parents to be busy; they don't want to have to fill your schedule with their paltry needs. Children want to be assured that there are other things to do, important things; more important, on occasion, than they are.” quote by Lionel Shriver
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““I suspect that children want their parents to be busy; they don't want to have to fill your schedule with their paltry needs. Children want to be assured that there are other things to do, important things; more important, on occasion, than they are.””

Lionel Shriver

About This Quote

Source Book: Anonymous, 2005

Children seek independence and want parents occupied, not to be constantly catered to.

In simple terms: Kids want parents busy, not to be constantly.

Key Takeaway

Encourage children to develop self‑reliance.

Themes

parenting independence boundaries

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family meals
  • homework time
  • extracurricular scheduling
  • parent‑child communication

Key Concepts

family dynamics self‑esteem responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can parents balance availability with fostering independence?
  • What activities can children do independently?
A Different Perspective

Children may feel neglected if parents are too busy.

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