“I think, at a child’s birth, if a mother could ask a fairy godmother to endow it with the most useful gift, that gift should be curiosity.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“I think, at a child’s birth, if a mother could ask a fairy godmother to endow it with the most useful gift, that gift should be curiosity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt highlights curiosity as the most valuable trait a child can possess. Framing the wish as something a “fairy godmother” might bestow adds a touch of fable or magic, but the underlying message is practical and deeply philosophical. Curiosity is presented as the foundation of learning, growth, and engagement with the world—a lifelong asset more valuable than intelligence or wealth.
Roosevelt believed in the power of education, open-mindedness, and exploration. Curiosity leads individuals to ask questions, seek understanding, and challenge the status quo—all essential qualities in democratic citizenship and personal development. Her own life was marked by continuous learning and a drive to understand the world more fully, even amidst great social and political responsibilities.
In today’s fast-changing world, curiosity remains a critical skill. It fuels innovation in science and technology, empathy in human relationships, and adaptability in uncertain times. Whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the home, fostering a child’s curiosity means equipping them with the tools to navigate and shape their future.
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