Fran Lebowitz Quotes

Children should have enough freedom to be themselves - once they've learned the rules.

There comes a moment as a parent when you realize you will no longer be the center of your child's universe.

I know it can be difficult for parents, but I really do believe that kids need to play the predominant role in the choices that go into their own space.

I understand that in some families both parents have to work, so the kids are home alone eating more processed foods. But if the kids know how to make oatmeal or eggs in the morning or pasta or a lentil soup at night - we're giving them real survival tools.

My feeling is, well, if it's my money, I have a right to judge.

I certainly didn't have a nanny.

I got married very early, and in no time at all, we had three children. And it seemed to me I had an obligation to support them.

My father wasn't allowing me control and the financial freedom that I was asking for. I was 17, about to be 18 within a year, so I started asking more questions because I felt that I needed to start learning about those things.

They are amazing kids so we let them make decisions but also have discipline.

I'm letting no man handle my bank account.

A wise parent humors the desire for independent action, so as to become the friend and advisor when his absolute rule shall cease.

There's a lot of freedom in having nothing. You don't have responsibility. You have nobody to answer to. But I'd rather deal without the poverty.

I have a life. My kids don't run my house.

I don't let other people tell me what to do. Well, unless it's my mum.

In my family, there was one parent you asked for money and the other for permission to do things. You could never get both out of one parent.

Why do I have to be an example for your kid? You be an example for your own kid.

I've never been one to let others decide what's right for me or my children.

I have it all because my children did not whine and cry when I was not there.

When you're the most successful person in your family, in your neighborhood, and in your town, everybody thinks you're the First National Bank, and you have to figure out for yourself where those boundaries are.

Do not make decisions for your kid. It's not going to turn out well.

To most of us, adulthood means being able to earn a living, possess a home, get married and rear children, and this implies having autonomy or control over one's life. In the 19th century, becoming an adult was celebrated as a liberation from paternal authority. Today we regard it more as a time of regret and stagnation.

Both my kids are above 30 now... grown up enough to take their own decisions.

Michael Johnson doesn't pay my bills or sign my cheques. So I don't really care what he has to say.

I found my own orthodontist, my own high school. I set up interviews and did college trips. Despite her incredible concern and caring, my mom didn't have the capacity for that. It was outside her experience, and she knew I was on top of it.

You'll move from big brother to the adult world faster by cooking food for your younger siblings while your peers are playing video games.