Children do not give up their innate imagination, curiosity, dreaminess easily. You have to love them to get them to do that.

In this quote, R. D. Laing emphasizes the natural, inherent qualities of children—their imagination, curiosity, and dreaminess. These qualities, according to Laing, are intrinsic to their nature and not easily abandoned. Children are naturally inclined to dream, explore, and question the world around them, and these traits form the foundation of their developmental experience. Laing suggests that these qualities are essential to childhood, and they persist unless shaped or subdued by external influences.

Laing goes on to say that love is the key to guiding children through the process of maturing, where they may eventually "give up" some of these innate qualities. This doesn't mean that children should lose their imagination or curiosity, but rather that the transition to adulthood often involves learning to balance these traits with the realities of the world. Love, in this context, acts as the force that encourages and supports children during this transformative period, helping them retain their sense of wonder while adapting to the adult world.

The origin of this quote comes from Laing’s work as a psychiatrist and psychologist, known for his studies on the mind, human development, and the social influences on mental health. Laing was particularly interested in the ways societal pressures could stifle the natural instincts of children, leading them to abandon their creative and curious tendencies as they grow older. This quote reflects his belief that maintaining a child’s imagination and curiosity is important for their emotional and intellectual well-being.

Ultimately, Laing’s quote highlights the fragile nature of childhood imagination and the role of nurturing love in preserving it. It suggests that while society often demands that children conform to certain expectations, love and understanding are essential in helping them maintain their creativity and curiosity as they navigate the transition to adulthood. The idea that these traits are not easily given up underscores their importance in shaping a child's identity and connection to the world.