The Century of the Child

The author argues that social progress depends on recognizing the primacy of the child's welfare and calls for sweeping reforms in family life, motherhood, and public policy. She critiques prevailing schools and child labor practices, advocates child-centered education that respects developmental needs, and envisions less coercive, more aesthetic and moral instruction. The essay examines sexual ethics, parenthood, and women's work, proposes medical oversight to reduce hereditary harm, and outlines practical measures for future schools, religious instruction, and legal protections to secure children's physical, intellectual, and spiritual flourishing.