I read an article this week on the subject of children and independence. The author talked in-depth about her study of children from various tribes across the globe.
Apparently, their children have tons of freedom to explore and learn without constant adult supervision.
These native kids know survival skills such as hunting, fishing, and fire building by the age of five or six.
The children of Western culture are way behind.
The author gives three problems as to why: They have too many planned activities, most adults consider them a nuisance, and they are woefully unhappy because of poor parenting practices.
For the most part, I agree with the author. It’s sad when parents scream at their children for making noise, when neighborhoods are not kid-friendly.
I am so thank that my grandparents allowed me to be a kid. I was free to play outside, to explore my surroundings, and to make mistakes.
I could run, laugh, and be silly with little to no chastisement.
Don’t get me wrong. If I got out of line, there were consequences, but I felt safe within the confines of clear boundaries.
By no means was I killing bobcats with my bare hands or wielding knives to take down crocodiles. (That would’ve been awesome though!) At least I knew how to complete my chores. I was also capable of feeding and clothing myself.
In today’s times, children are not treated with importance. Training and attention is needed to mold them into a future generation ready to take their place.
I am not a parent, but I have eyes.
It doesn’t take long to notice that children are crying out for attention, for someone to expect more out of them.
What’s the future going to look like if we continue to neglect the children in our care?
audra gayle 