What happened to the notion that it takes a village to raise a child
By geekemgirl
@geekemgirl (270)
United States
November 9, 2011 10:55pm CST
When I was younger my mom lived by the African proverb that it takes a village to raise a child. She allowed our neighbors and teachers to discipline me and my sisters and we listened to them because we knew that not only would they discipline us if we misbehaved but my mom would again when we got home. Now days, many of the parents I know dont appreciate it when other adults complain about their child's misbehavior let alone yell at them or discipline them. They blame the teachers when the kids arent listening or learning in class and the teachers blame the parents for raising unruly children. No one is working together as a team because everyone seems to have forgotten that it takes a village to raise.
1 person likes this
2 responses
@JenInTN (27514)
• United States
11 Nov 11
I remember hearing stories about family and neighbors helping with the discipline of children but it isn't something I have ever known. I think there is a lot to be said for the team effort. I think that people now have not got the trust in others that they used to have. I think that is the core issue. I don't have a clue who lives three or four houses down and if I went out and a man had one of my girls...I have to admit that I would freak out..lol.
Now as far as the teacher/parent team...that is so important and you are so right about them often being pitted against one another. It really does nothing but damage a child to have two of the most influential role models in their lives blaming each other instead of addressing what ever it is that is really wrong.
Great discussion!
@geekemgirl (270)
• United States
13 Nov 11
Thanks Jen. I also think trust is an issue. We think people have an ulterior motive and we can never be to safe with our kids especially in the society we live in today. There are a lot of predators out there and we dont know our neighbors anymore. When I was younger and living in a small town, everybody knew everybody and all their business lol so it was easier to share the care of your kids with others. I admit that it isnt so easy anymore. I do think it is still possible when it comes to parents and teachers. Although I'm not sure how we can get back to that.
@EdnaReyes (2622)
• Philippines
10 Nov 11
Yes, people blamed on each other for their misdoings. I think this African proverb must be shared with every body just to let people, teachers and parents work as a team in promoting children's welfare.
@geekemgirl (270)
• United States
13 Nov 11
I also think it is especially important that parents and teachers work together for the welfare of the children. Just like parents need to be on the same page when raising children so do parents and teachers.
