Today's thought comes from David Elkind, author of the book The Hurried Child. The phrase "hurried child" was coined to mean a disregard for activities and curriculum geared to a child's developmental level. Instead children are forced to sit and pay attention far longer than their bodies or mind can tolerate; attempts are made to teach children reading and writing before children are developmentally prepared; and curriculum for 4, 5 & 6 year olds include content best suited for later years. According to Mr. Elkind:
"Children are being pushed too hard, too early and are being driven to grow up quickly, especially with regard to intellectual tasks. Children are being rushed through childhood with little time allowed for being a child and experiencing age-appropriate activities, including play."
---David Elkind, The Hurried Child (1981) and Miseducation (1987)
Examine your practices. Are you allowing your children to be children?
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