Comparison of Parenting Approaches
In the context of the poem "The Baby Seagull" by L. W. L. Smith and the character Amanda from the play "Amanda" by Robin Klein, we can see distinct approaches of mothers towards nurturing their children. Both mothers aim to help their children grow, but their methods differ significantly.
Mother of the Baby Seagull
- Encouragement of Independence: The mother seagull pushes her baby to leave the nest, promoting self-reliance.
- Natural Instincts: She believes in the natural instincts of her child, allowing the baby to learn through experience.
- Supportive Yet Firm: While she is supportive, she sets high expectations which can be intimidating for the young seagull.
Amanda's Mother
- Control and Restrictions: Amanda's mother imposes strict rules, limiting her freedom and expression.
- Lack of Understanding: She fails to recognize Amanda's need for creativity and individuality, often dismissing her daydreams.
- Pressure to Conform: The constant reminders to behave in a certain way create a sense of pressure rather than encouragement.
Insights and Evaluation
- Impact on Development: The seagull's mother fosters independence, which can lead to confidence and resilience. In contrast, Amanda’s mother’s controlling nature may stifle her creativity and self-esteem.
- Long-term Effects: The baby seagull is likely to thrive in the wild due to the encouragement of its mother, while Amanda may struggle with self-identity and autonomy due to her mother’s restrictive approach.
- Balanced Approach: A combination of both approaches could be beneficial; providing support while allowing children the freedom to explore and learn from their mistakes.
These contrasting parenting styles highlight the importance of fostering independence while also providing guidance, ultimately shaping the children's futures.