The phrase is cliche, but the truth remains. Kids do grow up quickly. They are being exposed to many things, be it positive or negative, much earlier in their lives when compared to ours.
Just today I read an interesting article from the New York Times entitled "Race to Nowhere", which deals with the ever growing pressures of school on children. I can relate to this topic from a by-stander point of view as I see moms and dads rushing their kids from event to event and on a first-hand basis as I deal with G. As a parent, you want the best for your child by providing them with opportunities that perhaps you didn't have growing up. However, the awareness that kids need to be kids is present in the back of our minds. This circular "race" seems to auto-propel itself as schools impose higher, tougher standards and parents have no choice, but to prioritize their child's schedule to stay afloat. However, upon further scrutiny, this topic delves deeper than what local schools impose. It comes down to the fact that the U.S. needs to maintain its competitive edge at a worldwide level. How is it supposed to achieve this by being lax on educational standards? According to The Organization for Economic Cooperation, the U.S. is losing ground to countries like China.
In my opinion, I think a parent's main priority is to find a balance by acknowledging and adapting to rigorous educational standards; I don't foresee school requirements becoming easier, while affording opportunities for their child to be just that, a child enjoying childhood. What's your take?
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