Changing Images of Mother/Mothering

This paper examines how representations of the mother and mothering practices have altered between a generation of mothers and daughters. It also discusses the varied configurations of mother/mothering which occur at different times in women's lives, in other racial and ethnic situations, and which have been opened up by medical science through reproductive technology. Taking a broad definition of mothering, the paper points to the hierarchical divisions that have been created between women who pay, and are being paid, for the care and education of children in their early years. It argues that the difficult and complex task for early childhood education and care is to keep pace and to grapple with the ever-changing circumstances of those who nurture and care for the young.