In "Through the Tunnel" by Dorris Lessing, how is Jerry's growth and evolving maturity reflected in his relationship with his mother?

Jerry's growth and developing maturity is very much reflected in his relationship with his mother.  Early in the story, Jerry is concerned about pleasing her, and the idea that he might disappoint her causes him to feel a great deal of "contrition," or guilt.  In fact, it "sent him running after her," even after she'd given him permission to leave her and go to the wild bay that so entices him.  Later, when he wants goggles, Jerry is still quite childish, demanding them "now, now, now!  He must have them this minute and no other time.  He nagged and pestered until she went with him to a shop."  His inability to delay gratification is yet another example of Jerry's lack of maturity early on.

However, with his repeated practice and work, Jerry begins to grow.  His old beach "now seemed a place for small children [...].  It was not his beach."  Now, instead of being overly concerned about disappointing his mother, Jerry "did not ask for permission."  Children ask for permission, and children remain with their mothers.  Jerry, though, is no longer a child.  In fact, he's described as having a "curious, most unchildlike persistence" now in his pursuits.  In the end, Jerry still longs for his mother's approval, but he has begun the process of growing up.