The Vital Role of Mothers and Female Role Models in Early Childhood

A mother’s presence is like a compass in a child’s life i.e. guiding, steady, and reassuring. Children are closest to their mothers from the time they develop their first heartbeat. There is a huge influence of mothers on a child’s development – emotionally, physically, and socially. 

In this blog, let’s explore the influence of mothers on child development!

Emotion Regulation and Empathy 

Females are known to be more empathetic than their male counterparts. Having a female influence will help make children empathize with everyone as well as regulate their emotions. This also helps them express themselves more safely. When a mother validates their child’s emotions. It can have a positive impact on a child’s development. However, if they respond negatively, children might develop anxiety, distress, trust issues, and behavioral issues. 

Social and Cognitive Development 

In a country like South Africa, mothers are primary caregivers and their influence in a child’s life stretches far beyond the four walls of the home. A mother guides her child through school routines or grandmamas telling stories and passing on wisdom. The level of influence of mothers on child development is profound. This enhances their social and cognitive skills like improving language skills, problem-solving abilities, and curiosity.

Foster Independence 

Letting your child choose their party outfit or decide on the paint color of their room is just one way to give them independence and encourage them to speak up and share their opinions. Mothers shape and nurture this independence in their children, often unknowingly, as they are the ones who build their child’s daily routines.

First Teacher 

Children often mimic their mothers and are the first educators in their lives. Mothers impart wisdom through various activities like counting, storytelling in traditional isiXhosa or singing folk songs and lullabies in Afrikaans. These early moments build a lot of essential skills like language, motor skills, and cognitive ability. Mothers start teaching their children long before formal education begins.

Safest Haven for Her Child 

The safest place a child can find is his mother’s arms. In South Africa, every female member of the family fulfils the role of a mother. From Gogo’s soothing nighttime stories to mama’s warm hugs, mothers create that safe space where the child feels valued, seen, and heard. This helps them to develop confidence and fills them up with loads of love to offer everyone around them. The influence of mothers on child development is like a safe and stimulating environment.

Nurturing Morals and Social Values 

Respect for elders, sharing with others, and standing up for what is right, these are often first taught at home. Mothers are central to shaping a child’s values, empathy, and social awareness, preparing them to thrive in communities that are both close-knit and diverse.

Balancing Strength and Softness 

In many South African households, mothers are the pillars holding everything together managing work, parenting, and daily challenges with remarkable grit. This balance of firmness and care helps children learn resilience, adaptability, and emotional strength — qualities they’ll carry into adulthood.

A Powerful Partnership 

In South Africa, parenting often involves extended family—grandmothers, aunts, and sisters all contributing to the upbringing of a child. Yet, the role of a mother remains deeply personal and profoundly influential. Her voice is often the first one a child hears. Her love is the first lesson in belonging.

At Dibber International Preschools, we celebrate this journey by working closely with families to ensure children feel deeply connected, both at home and in school. Our approach to early education aligns with the values, warmth, and cultural depth that South African mothers bring to their children’s lives. 

We don’t just educate, we nurture global citizens with strong roots. Because when mothers and educators walk hand in hand, the path ahead becomes a whole lot brighter.