Swift, Katherine

‘Dear Reader, you may take it from me, that however hard you try – or don’t try; whatever you do – or don’t do; for better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; every way and every day:

THE PARENT IS ALWAYS WRONG

So it is no good bothering about it. When the little pests grow up they will certainly tell you exactly what you did wrong in their case. But, never mind; they will be just as wrong themselves in their turn. So take things easily; and above all, eschew good intentions . . .’

With Mothering Sunday fast approaching we thought our newsletter readers might appreciate a little instruction in the art of parenting from the ever-charming Period Piece by Gwen Raverat.