Childish and childlike both connect something to children, but they are not interchangeable.
Childish usually has a negative meaning. It describes behavior that seems immature, silly, rude, or poorly controlled. If an adult pouts, interrupts, or throws a fit, calling that behavior childish suggests criticism.
Childlike is usually positive. It describes qualities such as innocence, curiosity, trust, openness, or delight. If someone looks at snow with amazement or gets excited about small joys, childlike often fits.
- He made a childish remark during the meeting.
- Her childlike wonder made the trip more fun.
A simple way to remember it is this: childish points to immaturity, while childlike points to innocence. Both words refer to child related qualities, but the tone is what matters most.
If you mean criticism, choose childish. If you mean warmth, purity, or delight, choose childlike.
