Mothers are often the first nannies for their children, laying the foundation for learning long before formal education begins. From teaching basic communication and motor skills to instilling core values, mothers provide the most elementary and impactful learning experiences. This early effect is critical because it shapes the cognitive, emotional and social development of the child. Even in formal education, the role of the mother remains influential and effective, combining with and complementing the roles of the teacher, the school and society.

Research suggests that a mother's involvement in her child's education significantly enhances academic performance, social skills, and emotional well-being. By providing constant support and encouragement, mothers help children develop a love of learning, curiosity and confidence to explore the world around them. This pivotal role underscores the importance of empowering mothers with the resources and knowledge to support their children's educational journey.

Mothers use different educational styles and styles based on their cultural, social, and personal backgrounds. These patterns can be broadly categorized into reliable, permissive, and non-participatory.

Reliable style: This approach is characterized by high responsiveness and high demands. Trusted mothers set clear expectations and provide the necessary support to their children to achieve these goals. They balance discipline and warmth and encourage open communication.

Style permissive: Permissive mothers are characterized by care and communication but set few boundaries or rules. They prioritize their children's autonomy and often act more like friends than as authority figures. While this approach fosters creativity and independence, it may lack the structure necessary for children to learn discipline and responsibility.

Non-participating style: Non-participating mothers offer minimal involvement in their children's lives, offering little guidance or support. This neglected approach can stem from various factors, including socioeconomic pressures or personal challenges, and often leads to children feeling undervalued and dissupported.

These patterns are not exclusive, pure or indiligent, but represent practical life situations in education or in others, and perhaps the trade-off between these patterns is also related to the child's personality and response to them. A successful pattern with a particular child may not fit another child, even in the same family.

صورة من unsplash

It is difficult to formulate a single, inclusive, and universal approach to the education of children and young people, however, the optimal method of educating the mother tends to conform to a formal approach that combines the best of the two styles – the supportive style and the demanding style. Trusted mothers set clear expectations and provide the necessary resources and emotional support for their children to meet these expectations. This balance fosters a sense of security and self-discipline in children, helping them develop academically and personally.

Studies show that children raised by trusted mothers tend to show higher academic performance, better social skills, and greater emotional stability. This approach encourages children to become independent thinkers while feeling supported in their endeavors, achieving an ideal balance that promotes holistic progress.

Perhaps what many educators agree on is the development of self-motivation, disciplined behavior and determination to achieve aspirations for work and perseverance.

صورة من unsplash

The dreams and aspirations nurtured by maternal education are profound and far-reaching. Mothers instill a sense of ambition, resilience and hope in their children, directing them to imagine and strive for a better future. Whether it's encouraging academic excellence, artistic pursuits, or sporting achievements, mother-nurtured dreams often reflect their own values and aspirations.

By modeling positive behaviors and attitudes, mothers help children develop a vision of their own lives. They know the importance of perseverance, the value of hard work, and the pleasure of following one's emotions. These dreams, rooted in the guidance of the mother, push children to achieve their full potential and meaningfully contribute to society.

Thinking about the question: "Do I dare to be happier than my mother?" highlights the aspirations of generations and the sacrifices inherent in the roles of mother. Many mothers dream of providing a better life for their children, often at the expense of their happiness and well-being. This selfless dedication raises an important question about the legacy of happiness and fulfillment that is passed down from mother to child.

The audacity to be happier than your mother is not a betrayal of her sacrifices, but the fulfillment of her deepest desires. This means seizing the opportunities you have worked so hard to provide and pursuing a life that honors its efforts through joy and success. It is a testament to the progress and potential that maternal education can unleash, highlighting the evolving nature of happiness across generations.

صورة من unsplash

The role of mothers in the education of children is a deep and complex responsibility that constitutes the very fabric of society. Through diverse educational methods and nurturing dreams, mothers leave an indelible mark on their children's lives. The quest to be happier than our mothers is not only an appreciation of their sacrifices, but also a continuation of their legacy, ensuring that each generation builds on the strengths and wisdom of the previous generation. When considering the impact of maternal education, it is recognised that it is pivotal in promoting a brighter and more prosperous future for all.