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Childhood trauma Quote by Mary Norton

“The child is right," she announced firmly. Arrietty's eyes grew big. "Oh, no-" she began. It shocked her to be right. Parents were right, not children. Children could say anything, Arrietty knew, and enjoy saying it-knowing always they were safe and wrong.” quote by Mary Norton
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““The child is right," she announced firmly. Arrietty's eyes grew big. "Oh, no-" she began. It shocked her to be right. Parents were right, not children. Children could say anything, Arrietty knew, and enjoy saying it-knowing always they were safe and wrong.””

Mary Norton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Borrowers by Mary Norton, 1952

A child’s perspective can be confident and correct, while adults may be mistaken; the quote highlights the tension between youthful certainty and adult doubt.

In simple terms: Children can be right even when adults think otherwise.

Key Takeaway

Listen to children's insights.

Themes

confidence perspective authority growth

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

narrative dialogue

When to use this quote

  • parent‑child conversations
  • education
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

developmental psychology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance respect for children’s views with adult guidance?
  • When should we trust a child’s judgment?
A Different Perspective

Children’s certainty may lack experience or broader context.

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