"Being a good mother does not call for the same qualities as being a good housewife; a dedication to keeping children clean and tidy may override an interest in their separate development as individuals"

In this quote, Ann Oakley highlights the distinction between being a great mom and being a great homemaker. She argues that the qualities needed for each function are not the very same. While a good homemaker may focus on keeping the kids clean and tidy, an excellent mother focuses on their specific development. This suggests that a mom's devotion to her children's well-being surpasses just their physical look and cleanliness. Instead, she values their development as special people with their own interests and characters. Oakley recommends that being a good mother involves nurturing and supporting her kids's uniqueness, instead of conforming to societal expectations of a best homemaker.