Changing images of mother/mothering

This paper examines how representations of the mother and mothering practices have altered between a generation of mothers and daughter. 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 division that have been created between women who pay, and are being paid for the care and education of their children in their early years. It argues the difficult and complex task for early childhood education and care is to keep pace and grapple with the ever-changing cirsumstances of those who nurture and care for the young.