The Finch children really like Miss Maudie. There's something about her that sets her apart from the other adults in Maycomb. For one thing, she has an incredibly laid-back attitude to life. There's nothing remotely phony about Miss Maudie, and the children respond well to her honest and open nature. Scout is particularly drawn to Miss Maudie and likes to help her out in the garden. Like Scout, Maudie feels most comfortable wearing overalls; when she's with Maudie Scout can be guaranteed not to have to take lectures on what is or isn't lady-like.
For his part, Jem finds Maudie a source of comfort—and cakes—in the wake of Tom Robinson's unjust conviction. She helps to provide him with a much-needed sense of perspective at such a difficult time, the death of his boyhood innocence.
Miss Maudie serves to remind the Finch children—as indeed does their father—that it's possible to be an adult in Maycomb and still maintain a sense of decency and basic humanity.
The Finch children view Miss Maudie as their friend and enjoy her presence. Miss Maudie is kind toward Jem, Scout, and Dill, and she allows them to run around in her yard as long as they do not trample her azaleas. Whenever Jem goes off to play with Dill, Miss Maudie allows Scout to sit with her on the front porch and keep her company. Scout thoroughly enjoys Maudie's calm presence and appreciates her compassionate personality. The children also know that they can joke with Miss Maudie. In chapter 8, Jem pokes fun at Maudie by creating a snowman that resembles her. Unlike the other female citizens in Maycomb, Miss Maudie supports Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson and comforts the children following the unfortunate verdict. Miss Maudie even bakes the children cakes and offers them words of encouragement the day after the trial. Scout also appreciates Maudie's presence and comforting touch during Aunt Alexandra's missionary circle. Overall, the children feel comfortable around Miss Maudie and view her as a genuine friend.
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