Although we talk and support cultural diversity in our society, it is very interesting to observe children. While shopping last week there was a little boy about 4, speaking in Farsi with his parents. He was whining and loud. It did not take an interpreter to understand his behaviour and language. He was bored, did not want to be shopping and was misbehaving. Just like most other 4 year olds! Whining is understood in any language. A child's dislike of shopping is universal! We may think we have such differences as adults, but children have similar behaviours and reactions to life from all backgrounds. Think of that little baby of 6 months who smiles at a smiling face. Does not discriminate! Learning to play with other children in a Day Care Centre where acceptable behaviour is reassured, not cultural diversity. Gender differences are not supported! Little girls and little boys are encouraged to have positive interactions with each other! Teaching any 3 year old not to fight with another can lead to learning to cooperate and getting along with others. "It's mine!" can carry over into adulthood if children are allowed to be too self-centred. Even some countries whine- "it's mine and start wars!" The behaviours of all children from all backgrounds, I believe is universal. It is how we raise our children. The respect we encourage. For me, as a Canadian- manners, manners, manners. Please, thank you, excuse me! These are words that are taught from a young age! Most importantly, I must set an example and demonstrate the behaviour. No longer can we say as adults- do as I say, not as I do!
Tell me what do you see when you are around other people. Do you observe that children are children regardless of background? What do you think?
I think children are a reflection of their parents. Good manners are instilled by caring parents (and grand-parents!).
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