As Beverly Clary approaches her 100th birthday, she reflects on the stark differences in childhood experiences over the years. Known for her heartwarming children’s literature, Clary has left an indelible mark on many of us who grew up alongside characters like the adventurous Ramona Quimby, whose fearless spirit we admired.
In a recent interview with The Washington Post, Clary expressed her thoughts on the current state of childhood, noting, “Kids today face challenges I never had, primarily due to the lack of freedom I enjoyed and the overwhelming number of scheduled activities.” Clary reminisced about a time when children could roam freely outside, exploring their neighborhoods without restrictions. “When I was growing up, most mothers were at home, keeping an eye on all the kids. That sense of community allowed for a greater sense of freedom,” she recalled.
While it’s tempting to romanticize the past when mothers were predominantly homemakers, it’s crucial to acknowledge that societal shifts have benefited many women. Not every woman yearns to stay at home, and that diversity in household dynamics shouldn’t detract from the importance of community. We all have neighbors, and fostering those connections can create a shared sense of responsibility towards our children.
Clary pointed out that the collective vigilance of mothers back in her day played a significant role in shaping the characters she wrote about. But this watchful eye doesn’t have to be limited to mothers alone; it could include fathers, grandparents, or even caregivers. There’s no reason we can’t revive that community spirit today, even amidst our busy lives.
Now residing in a retirement home in Northern California, Clary mentioned her preference for writing letters over using a computer, humorously noting, “At 99, there aren’t many people left to write to.”
We owe her gratitude for the timeless stories that remind us of a time when community connection was palpable. One can only imagine how Ramona would have fared if confined indoors or shuttled between appointments—perhaps she would have transformed from Ramona the Brave to Ramona the Bored.
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In summary, Beverly Clary’s reflections on childhood freedom prompt us to consider how modern parenting has evolved. While the landscape has changed, the essence of community involvement in child-rearing remains vital.