A compilation of parenting quotes for expectant parents as well as all those who enjoy parenting.

If you have never been hated by your child you have never been a parent. ~Bette Davis

Your children need your presence more than your presents. ~Jesse Jackson

A parent’s love is whole, no matter how many times divided. ~Robert Brault

A mother who is really a mother is never free. ~Honore de Balzac

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Osho

It’s not only children who grow. Parents do too. As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours. I can’t tell my children to reach for the sun. All I can do is reach for it myself. ~Joyce Maynard

A baby is born with a need to be loved – and never outgrows it. ~Frank Howard Clark

If you want children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibility on their shoulders. ~Abigail Van Buren

Even as kids reach adolescence, they need more than ever for us to watch over them. Adolescence is not about letting go. It’s about hanging on during a very bumpy ride. ~Ron Taffel

Mothers – especially single mothers – are heroic in their efforts to raise our nation’s children, but men must also take responsibility for their children and recognize the impact they have on their families’ well-being. ~Evan Bayh

Mothers all want their sons to grow up to be president, but they don’t want them to become politicians in the process. ~John F. Kennedy

The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother. ~Theodore Hesburgh

How pleasant it is for a father to sit at his child’s board. It is like an aged man reclining under the shadow of an oak which he has planted. ~Voltaire

To enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one’s family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one’s own mind. If a man can control his mind he can find the way to Enlightenment, and all wisdom and virtue will naturally come to him. ~Buddha

We never know the love of a parent till we become parents ourselves. ~Henry Ward Beecher

Let parents bequeath to their children not riches, but the spirit of reverence. ~Plato

Success for me its to raise happy, healthy human beings. ~Kelly LeBrock

Girls are the future mothers of our society, and it is important that we focus on their well-being. ~Miriam Makeba

Children that are raised in a home with a married mother and father consistently do better in every measure of well-being than their peers who come from divorced or step-parent, single-parent, cohabiting homes. ~Todd Tiahrt

Love is staying up all night with a sick child – or a healthy adult. ~David Frost

We are apt to forget that children watch examples better than they listen to preaching. ~Roy L. Smith

If kids come to educators and teachers from strong, healthy functioning families, it makes our job easier. If they do not come to us from strong, healthy, functioning families, it makes our job more important. ~Barbara Colorose

Studies show that children best flourish when one mom and one dad are there to raise them. ~John Boehner

Having a baby changes the way you view your in-laws. I love it when they come to visit now. They can hold the baby and I can go out. ~Matthew Broderick

Children are educated by what the grown-up is and not by his talk. ~Carl Jung

I get whatever placidity I have from my father. But my mother taught me how to take it on the chin. ~Norma Shearer

I regret not having had more time with my kids when they were growing up. ~Tina Turner

Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. ~Charles R. Swindoll

Parents should not smoke in order to discourage their kids from smoking. A child is more likely to smoke when they have been raised in the environment of a smoker. ~Christy Turlington

Few things are more satisfying than seeing your children have teenagers of their own. ~Doug Larson

I’ve said it before, but it’s absolutely true: My mother gave me my drive, but my father gave me my dreams. Thanks to him, I could see a future. ~Liza Minelli

We criticize mothers for closeness. We criticize fathers for distance. How many of us have expected less from our fathers and appreciated what they gave us more? How many of us always let them off the hook? ~Ellen Goodman

I had no idea that mothering my own child would be so healing to my own sadness from my childhood. ~Susie Bright

To me luxury is to be at home with my daughter, and the occasional massage doesn’t hurt. ~Olivia Newton-John

If you’re asking your kids to exercise, then you better do it, too. Practice what you preach. ~Bruce Jenner

The well-being and welfare of children should always be our focus. ~Todd Tiahrt

Most American children suffer too much mother and too little father. ~Gloria Steinem

My father was a farmer and my mother was a farmer, but, my childhood was very good. I am very grateful for my childhood, because it was full of gladness and good humanity. ~Roberto Benigni

You have to support your children to have a healthy relationship. ~Connie Sellecca

Parentage is a very important profession, but no test of fitness for it is ever imposed in the interest of the children. ~George Bernard Shaw

The family teaches us about the importance of knowledge, education, hard work and effort. It teaches us about enjoying ourselves, having fun, keeping fit and healthy. ~Kamisese Mara

We all have an interest in making sure teens grow up healthy and drug-free. ~John Walters

Analyzing “If you have never been hated by your child you have never been a parent.” ~Bette Davis

Simple Explanation

Quick Insights

• The quote suggests that experiencing a child’s dislike is a universal part of parenthood.
• It highlights the complex emotions that can arise in parent-child relationships.
• The statement implies that parenting involves both positive and negative interactions.
• It normalizes the occasional feelings of resentment or anger from children towards their parents.
• The quote encourages parents to view these moments as part of the parenting journey.
• It underscores the idea that parenting is a multifaceted experience, not always smooth or easy.

Thorough Examination

Bette Davis’ quote, “If you have never been hated by your child, you have never been a parent,” offers a profound insight into the complexities of parenthood. At its core, the quote suggests that experiencing moments of dislike or resentment from one’s child is an inevitable part of being a parent. This idea can be both comforting and challenging for parents, as it normalizes the ups and downs of raising children.

The quote acknowledges that parenting is not always a smooth or easy journey. It involves navigating a range of emotions, including those that are less pleasant. Children, as they grow and develop, may express frustration, anger, or even temporary hatred towards their parents. These emotions can stem from various factors, such as boundaries set by parents, differences in opinions, or the natural process of individuation as children assert their independence.

Davis’ words also highlight the importance of understanding and accepting these emotions as part of the parenting experience. Rather than viewing a child’s dislike as a failure, parents can see it as a sign that they are actively engaged in the challenging work of guiding and supporting their child’s growth. This perspective can help parents maintain their emotional resilience and continue to provide the love and guidance their children need.

The quote encourages parents to embrace the full spectrum of emotions that come with parenthood. It reminds us that parenting is not about being perfect or always liked by our children. Instead, it is about being present, consistent, and committed to their well-being, even in the face of temporary dislike. This approach can foster a deeper and more authentic relationship between parents and children.

Moreover, the quote underscores the idea that parenting is a dynamic and evolving process. Children’s feelings towards their parents can change rapidly, influenced by their developmental stage, personal experiences, and the broader context of their lives. Parents who understand this dynamic can better navigate the emotional landscape of parenthood and respond with empathy and patience.

Davis’ statement also touches on the concept of unconditional love. True parenting often involves loving and supporting one’s child even when they express negative emotions towards us. This unconditional love is a cornerstone of effective parenting, providing children with a sense of security and belonging that is essential for their emotional and psychological development.

The quote can serve as a reminder for parents to reflect on their own emotions and reactions. When faced with a child’s dislike, parents may experience feelings of hurt, disappointment, or self-doubt. Recognizing and managing these emotions is crucial for maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship with one’s child. It allows parents to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

Additionally, the quote invites parents to consider the broader context of their child’s emotions. Children may express dislike as a way of testing boundaries, asserting their independence, or coping with stress and challenges. Understanding these underlying factors can help parents respond more effectively and support their child’s growth and development.

The quote also emphasizes the importance of open communication in parent-child relationships. When children feel heard and understood, they are more likely to express their emotions in healthy ways. Parents who foster open communication can help their children develop emotional intelligence and resilience, equipping them to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

Furthermore, Davis’ words can be seen as a call to embrace the imperfections of parenthood. Parenting is a learning process for both parents and children, filled with trials and errors. Embracing this reality can help parents approach their role with greater humility and flexibility, allowing them to grow and adapt alongside their children.

The quote highlights the value of reflection and self-awareness in parenting. Parents who take the time to reflect on their interactions with their children can gain valuable insights into their own strengths and areas for improvement. This self-awareness can enhance their ability to support and guide their children effectively.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a powerful reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of parenthood. It encourages parents to view the challenges and emotions that come with raising children as opportunities for growth and connection. By embracing the full spectrum of the parenting experience, parents can foster deeper and more meaningful relationships with their children.

Logical Analysis

Quick Insights

• The quote can be analyzed through the lens of psychological theories on parent-child relationships.
• It reflects concepts of attachment theory and emotional regulation.
• The statement suggests that parenting involves managing conflicting emotions.
• It highlights the role of boundaries and discipline in shaping a child’s emotions.
• The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the emotional labor of parenting.
• It underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating parent-child dynamics.

Thorough Examination

Bette Davis’ quote, “If you have never been hated by your child, you have never been a parent,” can be analyzed through various psychological and theoretical lenses to gain a deeper understanding of its implications. One such lens is attachment theory, which explores the emotional bonds between parents and children. From this perspective, the quote suggests that even in secure attachments, children may experience moments of dislike or resentment towards their parents.

Attachment theory posits that children form emotional bonds with their primary caregivers, which serve as a foundation for their emotional and psychological development. Within this framework, the quote can be seen as reflecting the natural ebb and flow of emotions within a secure attachment. Children may express dislike as a way of testing the boundaries of their relationship with their parents, seeking reassurance of their love and support.

The quote also touches on the concept of emotional regulation, which refers to the ability to manage and express emotions in healthy ways. As children grow and develop, they learn to regulate their emotions through interactions with their parents. Moments of dislike or resentment can be seen as opportunities for children to practice emotional regulation, with the support and guidance of their parents.

Moreover, the quote highlights the role of boundaries and discipline in shaping a child’s emotions. Parents who set clear and consistent boundaries may occasionally face resistance or dislike from their children. However, these boundaries are essential for a child’s sense of security and well-being. They provide a structured environment in which children can learn to navigate their emotions and develop self-control.

The statement can also be interpreted as a commentary on the emotional labor of parenting. Emotional labor refers to the effort involved in managing one’s own emotions and those of others. Parenting involves a significant amount of emotional labor, as parents navigate their own emotions while supporting their children’s emotional development. The quote acknowledges the challenges of this emotional labor and encourages parents to view it as a natural part of the parenting journey.

Additionally, the quote underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating parent-child dynamics. Emotional intelligence involves the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as respond appropriately to the emotions of others. Parents who cultivate emotional intelligence can better support their children’s emotional development and foster a more harmonious relationship.

The quote invites parents to reflect on their own emotional responses to their child’s dislike. When faced with a child’s negative emotions, parents may experience a range of emotions themselves, from hurt and disappointment to anger and frustration. Recognizing and managing these emotions is crucial for maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship with one’s child.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a reminder of the importance of empathy in parenting. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another person. When children express dislike or resentment, parents who respond with empathy can help their children feel heard and understood. This empathetic response can foster a deeper connection between parents and children, even in moments of conflict.

The quote also highlights the dynamic nature of parent-child relationships. As children grow and develop, their emotions and behaviors evolve, influenced by a range of factors including their developmental stage, personal experiences, and the broader context of their lives. Parents who understand this dynamic can better navigate the emotional landscape of parenthood and respond with flexibility and adaptability.

Moreover, the quote can be analyzed through the lens of family systems theory, which views the family as a complex system of interrelated parts. From this perspective, the quote suggests that moments of dislike or resentment are a natural part of the family system, reflecting the interplay of individual emotions and relationships within the family.

The quote emphasizes the importance of open communication in managing family dynamics. Open communication involves expressing thoughts and feelings honestly and respectfully, and listening actively to others. When parents foster open communication, they create an environment in which family members can express their emotions safely and constructively.

Additionally, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the role of conflict in family relationships. Conflict is a natural and inevitable part of family life, arising from differences in opinions, needs, and desires. The quote suggests that moments of dislike or resentment can be seen as opportunities for growth and learning, both for parents and children.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of parent-child relationships. It encourages parents to view the challenges and emotions that come with raising children as opportunities for growth, connection, and deeper understanding. By embracing the full spectrum of the parenting experience, parents can foster more meaningful and resilient relationships with their children.

Practical Applications

Quick Insights

• The quote offers practical insights for parents dealing with a child’s dislike.
• It encourages open communication and active listening in parent-child interactions.
• The statement highlights the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining consistency.
• It suggests that parents view a child’s dislike as an opportunity for emotional growth.
• The quote emphasizes the role of empathy and understanding in resolving conflicts.
• It underscores the value of self-reflection and emotional regulation for parents.

Thorough Examination

Bette Davis’ quote, “If you have never been hated by your child, you have never been a parent,” offers practical insights and applications for parents navigating the complexities of parenthood. One of the most immediate applications is the importance of open communication in managing parent-child dynamics. When children express dislike or resentment, parents who foster open communication can create an environment in which these emotions can be expressed and addressed constructively.

Open communication involves actively listening to a child’s concerns and responding with empathy and understanding. This approach can help children feel heard and validated, even in moments of conflict. It also provides an opportunity for parents to model healthy communication skills, which children can carry into their own relationships.

The quote also highlights the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining consistency in parenting. Children thrive in environments where expectations are clear and consistent. While setting boundaries may occasionally lead to moments of dislike or resentment, it is essential for a child’s sense of security and well-being. Consistency in enforcing these boundaries helps children understand the consequences of their actions and develop self-control.

Moreover, the quote suggests that parents view a child’s dislike as an opportunity for emotional growth and learning. These moments can be seen as teachable moments, where parents can help children develop emotional intelligence and resilience. By guiding children through their emotions, parents can equip them with the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

The statement underscores the role of empathy and understanding in resolving conflicts within the parent-child relationship. When children express dislike or resentment, parents who respond with empathy can help de-escalate the situation and foster a deeper connection. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another person, which can help children feel supported and valued.

Additionally, the quote emphasizes the value of self-reflection and emotional regulation for parents. When faced with a child’s dislike, parents may experience a range of emotions themselves. Recognizing and managing these emotions is crucial for maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship with one’s child. Self-reflection allows parents to gain insights into their own emotional responses and develop strategies for managing them more effectively.

The quote also invites parents to consider the broader context of their child’s emotions. Children may express dislike as a way of coping with stress, asserting their independence, or testing boundaries. Understanding these underlying factors can help parents respond more effectively and support their child’s growth and development.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the importance of modeling healthy emotional expression in parenting. Children learn to manage their emotions by observing and interacting with their parents. When parents model healthy emotional expression, they provide a blueprint for their children to follow. This can include expressing emotions openly and constructively, and demonstrating effective coping strategies.

The quote can serve as a reminder for parents to prioritize self-care in their parenting journey. Parenting involves a significant amount of emotional labor, which can be both rewarding and challenging. Self-care involves taking care of one’s own physical, emotional, and mental well-being, which is essential for maintaining the energy and resilience needed to support one’s child.

Moreover, the quote underscores the value of seeking support and guidance in parenting. Whether through friends, family, or professional resources, seeking support can provide parents with the tools and strategies they need to navigate the challenges of parenthood more effectively. This support can include practical advice, emotional encouragement, or simply a listening ear.

The quote also highlights the importance of fostering a growth mindset in parenting. A growth mindset involves viewing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. When parents adopt this mindset, they can help their children develop resilience and a positive outlook on life. This approach can transform moments of dislike or resentment into opportunities for growth and connection.

Additionally, the quote can be seen as a call to embrace the imperfections of parenthood. Parenting is a learning process for both parents and children, filled with trials and errors. Embracing this reality can help parents approach their role with greater humility and flexibility, allowing them to grow and adapt alongside their children.

The quote emphasizes the importance of building a strong and supportive parent-child relationship. This relationship is the foundation upon which children develop their sense of self, emotional intelligence, and resilience. By fostering open communication, setting clear boundaries, and responding with empathy and understanding, parents can build a strong and enduring bond with their children.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a powerful reminder of the practical applications of embracing the full spectrum of the parenting experience. It encourages parents to view the challenges and emotions that come with raising children as opportunities for growth, learning, and deeper connection. By embracing these opportunities, parents can foster more meaningful and resilient relationships with their children, equipping them with the skills and support they need to thrive.