As Beverly Cleary approaches her 100th birthday, she reflects on the significant changes in childhood experiences over the decades. The cherished author of children’s literature, Cleary has left a lasting impact on many readers who grew up alongside her memorable characters. Personally, I admired the fearless spirit of her character, Ramona Quimby, who embodied the adventurous essence of childhood.
In a recent conversation with The Washington Post, Cleary shared her thoughts on the evolving nature of childhood. “Feel free to celebrate,” she remarked, acknowledging the importance of reaching such a remarkable age. For many, reminiscing about childhood inevitably brings up memories of Beezus and Ramona.
Cleary observed that contemporary children face challenges that her generation did not: “I believe kids today struggle because they lack the freedom to explore as I did, and they are overwhelmed by numerous scheduled activities.” Reflecting on her youth, she recalled a time when children were free to roam outside, supervised by vigilant mothers who largely stayed at home. “Back then, 99 percent of mothers were present to watch over the children,” she noted.
While it is tempting to romanticize the past, we must also recognize the progress made for women and families. Not every woman prefers to be a stay-at-home mom, and this shift does not imply that community support is a thing of the past. Families today may look different, yet the potential for neighborly connections remains.
Cleary emphasized that the collective supervision from mothers in her time allowed children the freedom to explore. However, this sense of community need not be limited to mothers alone; fathers, grandparents, and caregivers can also contribute to this shared vigilance. Why cannot the supportive network of the past be revived?
Currently residing in a retirement community in Northern California, Cleary 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 stories and memories that remind us of a time when community bonds were stronger.
What would Ramona have done if confined indoors or constantly shuttled from one obligation to another? It is daunting to consider that Ramona The Brave may have transformed into Ramona The Bored in today’s environment.
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In summary, Beverly Cleary’s reflections shed light on the contrasts between past and present childhood experiences. While freedom for children has diminished, the potential for community involvement and support remains. By fostering connections with our neighbors, we can create a nurturing environment for future generations, reminiscent of Cleary’s beloved stories.