Anne here. Most of us would assume that childhood was more or less the same for kids no matter what time or place they were born in, and while in one sense that's true, there's also a theory that childhood is a modern invention. 
This theory first arose in the 1960's, when a French historian, Phillipe Ariès (and others) presented arguments that it was only in recent times that children were treated quite differently from adults, and that in medieval times, for instance, they were treated as small adults. "In medieval society, the idea of childhood did not exist." It's an interesting theory, I think, and worth exploring a little.
In his book Centuries of Childhood, Ariès presented the case that "attitudes towards children were progressive, and evolved over time with economic change and social advancement, until childhood, as a concept and an accepted part of family life, came into being in the seventeenth century."
Partly this was because of high rates of infant and child mortality — children were regarded as too weak to be counted and could disappear at any time. But as soon as as soon as they could live without the help of their mothers or other carers, economic, cultural and social forces caused children to be regarded as small, slightly inferior adults.
Today we think of childhood as a time to play, a time where young minds should be encouraged to explore and grow and where, above all, children's innocence should be protected and valued. Children in the past didn't have this luxury. Their lives were full of duty and work and responsibilities, whether they helped their family in the fields, or at home, in workplaces, or the streets, or sent away to sea — many went at the tende age of seven. 
If from a wealthier background they might be sent be "fostered" in another noble household, also at seven years of age. Imagine being sent away to "seek your fortune" at such a young age. Today we think of children that age as still almost babies. Girls were trained in the domestic arts from the moment they could hold a broom or a needle, and the daughters of the aristocracy could be sent away, betrothed from childhood to find their place in a foreign household or land, often thrown into an atmosphere thick with politics.
Philosophies began to emerged in the 17th century that described childhood as a time of precious innocence. They asserted that children were vulnerable beings who should be protected and guided by the adults around them.
But despite these theories, life for most children did not noticeably change. The children of the poor continued to work for their daily bread (or not) and the children of the nobility continued to be bargained in marriage and sent out into the world to do their duty and manage as best they could.
In the 18th and 19th centuries modern notions of childhood had begun to emerge. Rousseau described childhood as "a brief period of sanctuary before people encounter the perils and hardships of adulthood." Educational and cultural innovations and the arts of the day reflected these new enlightened attitudes toward young children. In the Victorian era, the middle and upper classes emphasized family values and the sanctity of the child.
Schools were opened, children were trained, and asylumns like the Foundling Hospital in London were established in an attempt to protect unwanted and abandoned children, who would otherwise grow up —or not—on the streets. 
Toys were invented — special child-oriented items, made especially for children to play with — radical idea! In the Victorian era, there was a boom in factory-made toys; tin toys, clockwork toys, train sets, toy soldiers. There were rocking horses, dolls and doll's houses, tea-sets and toy shops with toy fruit and vegetables—there were even meat shops, toy shops selling hats and medicines.
There were educational toys like alphabet bricks and counting games. Sailing boats were popular, the manufacture of jigsaw puzzles boomed. In many homes, children were not allowed toys on Sundays – except Noah's Ark, because that was in the Bible.
Paintings idealizing childhood, and portraits of children pursuing childlike pursuits became extremely fashionable. This 1788 painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds was called The Age of Innocence and was immensely popular with the public. 
Yet the reality of life for thousands of children in Victorian England was utterly, horribly different. And child mortality for the poor remained high. It took a long time for the laws to change and for children in the western world to be protected under the law.
Consider this description: "Children became the city’s most visible laborers, because they worked in the city’s most visible place: the streets. The boys sold newspapers, blacked boots, scavenged for junk, and shuttled messages and goods. Girls scavenged, too, and watched their younger siblings from the stoop. “Little mothers,” they were called."
Sounds like a third world country, doesn't it? It's New York at the turn of the century. It wasn't really until after World War 2 that children in most developed countries ceased to be regarded as economic assets and expected to earn their way.
There are several articles here that you might find interesting: this one, which explains how important child slavery in England was to economic development. And this one about how a bunch of kids, aged 7-12 took on William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer.
Childhood is indeed a modern "invention." It's also a developed world phenomena; millions of children in poor, third world countries are still living much as children did centuries ago, working, being exploited, having responsibilities, earning their daily bread and more. History is not all in the past —it remains with us still, if you know where to look.
So cast your mind back to when you were a child. Were you expected to do chores or work from a young age? Tell us about it. What was your most hated chore? And what was your favorite toy?
Your post made me think of The Perfect Waltz! I’ve become fascinated with Victorian children recently, so this was a timely post. 🙂
If I say I insisted on everyone calling me Rainbow Brite when I was growing up, you can pretty much figure out my age! I was in a professional ballet training program from age eight, performing professionally from the same year, so that’s where all of my energy went. Also, my brother was an AIS gymnast – I wonder if my parents ever regretted having these annoying children who took away every minute of their time!
It was hard work, but then I think of my grandmother growing up in a village in Ukraine, working the fields from dawn to dusk, owning only one pair of shoes she only wore sometimes in order to preserve them… Well, I don’t know what hard work is!
Your post made me think of The Perfect Waltz! I’ve become fascinated with Victorian children recently, so this was a timely post. 🙂
If I say I insisted on everyone calling me Rainbow Brite when I was growing up, you can pretty much figure out my age! I was in a professional ballet training program from age eight, performing professionally from the same year, so that’s where all of my energy went. Also, my brother was an AIS gymnast – I wonder if my parents ever regretted having these annoying children who took away every minute of their time!
It was hard work, but then I think of my grandmother growing up in a village in Ukraine, working the fields from dawn to dusk, owning only one pair of shoes she only wore sometimes in order to preserve them… Well, I don’t know what hard work is!
Your post made me think of The Perfect Waltz! I’ve become fascinated with Victorian children recently, so this was a timely post. 🙂
If I say I insisted on everyone calling me Rainbow Brite when I was growing up, you can pretty much figure out my age! I was in a professional ballet training program from age eight, performing professionally from the same year, so that’s where all of my energy went. Also, my brother was an AIS gymnast – I wonder if my parents ever regretted having these annoying children who took away every minute of their time!
It was hard work, but then I think of my grandmother growing up in a village in Ukraine, working the fields from dawn to dusk, owning only one pair of shoes she only wore sometimes in order to preserve them… Well, I don’t know what hard work is!
Your post made me think of The Perfect Waltz! I’ve become fascinated with Victorian children recently, so this was a timely post. 🙂
If I say I insisted on everyone calling me Rainbow Brite when I was growing up, you can pretty much figure out my age! I was in a professional ballet training program from age eight, performing professionally from the same year, so that’s where all of my energy went. Also, my brother was an AIS gymnast – I wonder if my parents ever regretted having these annoying children who took away every minute of their time!
It was hard work, but then I think of my grandmother growing up in a village in Ukraine, working the fields from dawn to dusk, owning only one pair of shoes she only wore sometimes in order to preserve them… Well, I don’t know what hard work is!
Your post made me think of The Perfect Waltz! I’ve become fascinated with Victorian children recently, so this was a timely post. 🙂
If I say I insisted on everyone calling me Rainbow Brite when I was growing up, you can pretty much figure out my age! I was in a professional ballet training program from age eight, performing professionally from the same year, so that’s where all of my energy went. Also, my brother was an AIS gymnast – I wonder if my parents ever regretted having these annoying children who took away every minute of their time!
It was hard work, but then I think of my grandmother growing up in a village in Ukraine, working the fields from dawn to dusk, owning only one pair of shoes she only wore sometimes in order to preserve them… Well, I don’t know what hard work is!
Not from a young age, but in our teens we were taking turns at washing-up, hoovering, etc. (on a pretty small scale, looking back). My favourite “toy” was always a book.
The change I see between my childhood and those of children today is privacy and choice. I did what I liked (within reason) out of school – I could read, play in the garden with my siblings or not, make things, build and play in dens, etc.. I was allowed to be by myself, in my room or elsewhere, and to think my own thoughts. Children today seem to lead very organised lives, with little time to themselves. I don’t see them playing the way we did – making up stories, making dens, climbing trees, riding bikes aimlessly, etc.. That can’t be blamed entirely on electronics which weren’t around when we were little.
Not from a young age, but in our teens we were taking turns at washing-up, hoovering, etc. (on a pretty small scale, looking back). My favourite “toy” was always a book.
The change I see between my childhood and those of children today is privacy and choice. I did what I liked (within reason) out of school – I could read, play in the garden with my siblings or not, make things, build and play in dens, etc.. I was allowed to be by myself, in my room or elsewhere, and to think my own thoughts. Children today seem to lead very organised lives, with little time to themselves. I don’t see them playing the way we did – making up stories, making dens, climbing trees, riding bikes aimlessly, etc.. That can’t be blamed entirely on electronics which weren’t around when we were little.
Not from a young age, but in our teens we were taking turns at washing-up, hoovering, etc. (on a pretty small scale, looking back). My favourite “toy” was always a book.
The change I see between my childhood and those of children today is privacy and choice. I did what I liked (within reason) out of school – I could read, play in the garden with my siblings or not, make things, build and play in dens, etc.. I was allowed to be by myself, in my room or elsewhere, and to think my own thoughts. Children today seem to lead very organised lives, with little time to themselves. I don’t see them playing the way we did – making up stories, making dens, climbing trees, riding bikes aimlessly, etc.. That can’t be blamed entirely on electronics which weren’t around when we were little.
Not from a young age, but in our teens we were taking turns at washing-up, hoovering, etc. (on a pretty small scale, looking back). My favourite “toy” was always a book.
The change I see between my childhood and those of children today is privacy and choice. I did what I liked (within reason) out of school – I could read, play in the garden with my siblings or not, make things, build and play in dens, etc.. I was allowed to be by myself, in my room or elsewhere, and to think my own thoughts. Children today seem to lead very organised lives, with little time to themselves. I don’t see them playing the way we did – making up stories, making dens, climbing trees, riding bikes aimlessly, etc.. That can’t be blamed entirely on electronics which weren’t around when we were little.
Not from a young age, but in our teens we were taking turns at washing-up, hoovering, etc. (on a pretty small scale, looking back). My favourite “toy” was always a book.
The change I see between my childhood and those of children today is privacy and choice. I did what I liked (within reason) out of school – I could read, play in the garden with my siblings or not, make things, build and play in dens, etc.. I was allowed to be by myself, in my room or elsewhere, and to think my own thoughts. Children today seem to lead very organised lives, with little time to themselves. I don’t see them playing the way we did – making up stories, making dens, climbing trees, riding bikes aimlessly, etc.. That can’t be blamed entirely on electronics which weren’t around when we were little.
I have to disagree on how early toys for children were invented. Dolls, hoops, and other toys feature in depictions of children from the sixteenth century. Childhood was different than today, certainly, but IMHO things weren’t as cut and dried as Aries his followers maintain.
Kathy (the one who, ages ago, wrote the Writers’ Guide to Everyday Life in Renaissance England)
I have to disagree on how early toys for children were invented. Dolls, hoops, and other toys feature in depictions of children from the sixteenth century. Childhood was different than today, certainly, but IMHO things weren’t as cut and dried as Aries his followers maintain.
Kathy (the one who, ages ago, wrote the Writers’ Guide to Everyday Life in Renaissance England)
I have to disagree on how early toys for children were invented. Dolls, hoops, and other toys feature in depictions of children from the sixteenth century. Childhood was different than today, certainly, but IMHO things weren’t as cut and dried as Aries his followers maintain.
Kathy (the one who, ages ago, wrote the Writers’ Guide to Everyday Life in Renaissance England)
I have to disagree on how early toys for children were invented. Dolls, hoops, and other toys feature in depictions of children from the sixteenth century. Childhood was different than today, certainly, but IMHO things weren’t as cut and dried as Aries his followers maintain.
Kathy (the one who, ages ago, wrote the Writers’ Guide to Everyday Life in Renaissance England)
I have to disagree on how early toys for children were invented. Dolls, hoops, and other toys feature in depictions of children from the sixteenth century. Childhood was different than today, certainly, but IMHO things weren’t as cut and dried as Aries his followers maintain.
Kathy (the one who, ages ago, wrote the Writers’ Guide to Everyday Life in Renaissance England)
Interesting post!.. I had lots of time to play and be creative, but as I got older I should have been taught how to do things in preparation for adulthood. Some of my friends complained of having to work all the time they were growing up, but they were much more functional “out in the world” than I was. I think there should be a healthy balance between the two…. My favorite toy? My Barbie and Ken dolls. I thought there was something soooo romantic about the two of them!
Interesting post!.. I had lots of time to play and be creative, but as I got older I should have been taught how to do things in preparation for adulthood. Some of my friends complained of having to work all the time they were growing up, but they were much more functional “out in the world” than I was. I think there should be a healthy balance between the two…. My favorite toy? My Barbie and Ken dolls. I thought there was something soooo romantic about the two of them!
Interesting post!.. I had lots of time to play and be creative, but as I got older I should have been taught how to do things in preparation for adulthood. Some of my friends complained of having to work all the time they were growing up, but they were much more functional “out in the world” than I was. I think there should be a healthy balance between the two…. My favorite toy? My Barbie and Ken dolls. I thought there was something soooo romantic about the two of them!
Interesting post!.. I had lots of time to play and be creative, but as I got older I should have been taught how to do things in preparation for adulthood. Some of my friends complained of having to work all the time they were growing up, but they were much more functional “out in the world” than I was. I think there should be a healthy balance between the two…. My favorite toy? My Barbie and Ken dolls. I thought there was something soooo romantic about the two of them!
Interesting post!.. I had lots of time to play and be creative, but as I got older I should have been taught how to do things in preparation for adulthood. Some of my friends complained of having to work all the time they were growing up, but they were much more functional “out in the world” than I was. I think there should be a healthy balance between the two…. My favorite toy? My Barbie and Ken dolls. I thought there was something soooo romantic about the two of them!
I’m with Kathy on finding the distinctions too absolute. Children worked and had toys, mass production was unique to the Victorian period because it didn’t exist prior. Comparing children sent at seven with children in school today – both were training for their futures. Placements would be as good as the parents and were not a failure of sentiment but one of economics and social structures. By looking only through a western lens sweeping assumptions are made from a modern assumption that isn’t upheld. Native American children were not sent away or without toys, for example. People, not just children, worked harder before the industrial revolution.
For myself, I worked from a very young age. I picked over trash looking for items my parents could sell, ran errands for local shop owners, cared for smaller children, etc. My experience was not particularly unique. Western countries have their share of invisible children today as well.
I’m with Kathy on finding the distinctions too absolute. Children worked and had toys, mass production was unique to the Victorian period because it didn’t exist prior. Comparing children sent at seven with children in school today – both were training for their futures. Placements would be as good as the parents and were not a failure of sentiment but one of economics and social structures. By looking only through a western lens sweeping assumptions are made from a modern assumption that isn’t upheld. Native American children were not sent away or without toys, for example. People, not just children, worked harder before the industrial revolution.
For myself, I worked from a very young age. I picked over trash looking for items my parents could sell, ran errands for local shop owners, cared for smaller children, etc. My experience was not particularly unique. Western countries have their share of invisible children today as well.
I’m with Kathy on finding the distinctions too absolute. Children worked and had toys, mass production was unique to the Victorian period because it didn’t exist prior. Comparing children sent at seven with children in school today – both were training for their futures. Placements would be as good as the parents and were not a failure of sentiment but one of economics and social structures. By looking only through a western lens sweeping assumptions are made from a modern assumption that isn’t upheld. Native American children were not sent away or without toys, for example. People, not just children, worked harder before the industrial revolution.
For myself, I worked from a very young age. I picked over trash looking for items my parents could sell, ran errands for local shop owners, cared for smaller children, etc. My experience was not particularly unique. Western countries have their share of invisible children today as well.
I’m with Kathy on finding the distinctions too absolute. Children worked and had toys, mass production was unique to the Victorian period because it didn’t exist prior. Comparing children sent at seven with children in school today – both were training for their futures. Placements would be as good as the parents and were not a failure of sentiment but one of economics and social structures. By looking only through a western lens sweeping assumptions are made from a modern assumption that isn’t upheld. Native American children were not sent away or without toys, for example. People, not just children, worked harder before the industrial revolution.
For myself, I worked from a very young age. I picked over trash looking for items my parents could sell, ran errands for local shop owners, cared for smaller children, etc. My experience was not particularly unique. Western countries have their share of invisible children today as well.
I’m with Kathy on finding the distinctions too absolute. Children worked and had toys, mass production was unique to the Victorian period because it didn’t exist prior. Comparing children sent at seven with children in school today – both were training for their futures. Placements would be as good as the parents and were not a failure of sentiment but one of economics and social structures. By looking only through a western lens sweeping assumptions are made from a modern assumption that isn’t upheld. Native American children were not sent away or without toys, for example. People, not just children, worked harder before the industrial revolution.
For myself, I worked from a very young age. I picked over trash looking for items my parents could sell, ran errands for local shop owners, cared for smaller children, etc. My experience was not particularly unique. Western countries have their share of invisible children today as well.
Thanks, Sonya. I think kids training for ballet — especially professionally, work incredibly hard and develop amazing discipline. Same for gymnasts and all kinds of sports where there is ambition involved — those kids that do hours of training before and after school for instance. And yes, your grandmother would have worked hard throughout her childhood and beyond. It’s different kind of work, that’s all. A friend of mine’s father, who grew up in Europe, working in the fields, worked hard all his life, but he hated the way everything in this country ran by the clock.
Thanks, Sonya. I think kids training for ballet — especially professionally, work incredibly hard and develop amazing discipline. Same for gymnasts and all kinds of sports where there is ambition involved — those kids that do hours of training before and after school for instance. And yes, your grandmother would have worked hard throughout her childhood and beyond. It’s different kind of work, that’s all. A friend of mine’s father, who grew up in Europe, working in the fields, worked hard all his life, but he hated the way everything in this country ran by the clock.
Thanks, Sonya. I think kids training for ballet — especially professionally, work incredibly hard and develop amazing discipline. Same for gymnasts and all kinds of sports where there is ambition involved — those kids that do hours of training before and after school for instance. And yes, your grandmother would have worked hard throughout her childhood and beyond. It’s different kind of work, that’s all. A friend of mine’s father, who grew up in Europe, working in the fields, worked hard all his life, but he hated the way everything in this country ran by the clock.
Thanks, Sonya. I think kids training for ballet — especially professionally, work incredibly hard and develop amazing discipline. Same for gymnasts and all kinds of sports where there is ambition involved — those kids that do hours of training before and after school for instance. And yes, your grandmother would have worked hard throughout her childhood and beyond. It’s different kind of work, that’s all. A friend of mine’s father, who grew up in Europe, working in the fields, worked hard all his life, but he hated the way everything in this country ran by the clock.
Thanks, Sonya. I think kids training for ballet — especially professionally, work incredibly hard and develop amazing discipline. Same for gymnasts and all kinds of sports where there is ambition involved — those kids that do hours of training before and after school for instance. And yes, your grandmother would have worked hard throughout her childhood and beyond. It’s different kind of work, that’s all. A friend of mine’s father, who grew up in Europe, working in the fields, worked hard all his life, but he hated the way everything in this country ran by the clock.
I think there’s a lot of truth in what you say, HJ — a lot of kids these days are scheduled for so many things, it seems as though their whole life is timetabled. I loved my hours of free time as a child, the freedom to noodle around and do what I wanted. I was never bored.
Some friends took their kids camping recently and left all the electronic things behind, and they said the kids were lost without them. They kept turning to their parents to ask what they should do next, and were so easily bored.
I think there’s a lot of truth in what you say, HJ — a lot of kids these days are scheduled for so many things, it seems as though their whole life is timetabled. I loved my hours of free time as a child, the freedom to noodle around and do what I wanted. I was never bored.
Some friends took their kids camping recently and left all the electronic things behind, and they said the kids were lost without them. They kept turning to their parents to ask what they should do next, and were so easily bored.
I think there’s a lot of truth in what you say, HJ — a lot of kids these days are scheduled for so many things, it seems as though their whole life is timetabled. I loved my hours of free time as a child, the freedom to noodle around and do what I wanted. I was never bored.
Some friends took their kids camping recently and left all the electronic things behind, and they said the kids were lost without them. They kept turning to their parents to ask what they should do next, and were so easily bored.
I think there’s a lot of truth in what you say, HJ — a lot of kids these days are scheduled for so many things, it seems as though their whole life is timetabled. I loved my hours of free time as a child, the freedom to noodle around and do what I wanted. I was never bored.
Some friends took their kids camping recently and left all the electronic things behind, and they said the kids were lost without them. They kept turning to their parents to ask what they should do next, and were so easily bored.
I think there’s a lot of truth in what you say, HJ — a lot of kids these days are scheduled for so many things, it seems as though their whole life is timetabled. I loved my hours of free time as a child, the freedom to noodle around and do what I wanted. I was never bored.
Some friends took their kids camping recently and left all the electronic things behind, and they said the kids were lost without them. They kept turning to their parents to ask what they should do next, and were so easily bored.
Kathy, yes, I probably phrased that badly — of course toys have always existed for children, though mainly the children of the wealthy. What I meant was that a lot of *new* toys and games for children were invented at this time, and partly because of mass production, became popular and widespread. Partly it was also due to growing prosperity in the rising middle classes, whose children did not have to work.
I’m certain, for instance, that little girls have always played with dolls, and no doubt made homes for them, with whatever was to hand and imagination. But the boom in the production of dolls houses and tiny furniture etc dates from the Victorian era — that’s what I meant.
Kathy, yes, I probably phrased that badly — of course toys have always existed for children, though mainly the children of the wealthy. What I meant was that a lot of *new* toys and games for children were invented at this time, and partly because of mass production, became popular and widespread. Partly it was also due to growing prosperity in the rising middle classes, whose children did not have to work.
I’m certain, for instance, that little girls have always played with dolls, and no doubt made homes for them, with whatever was to hand and imagination. But the boom in the production of dolls houses and tiny furniture etc dates from the Victorian era — that’s what I meant.
Kathy, yes, I probably phrased that badly — of course toys have always existed for children, though mainly the children of the wealthy. What I meant was that a lot of *new* toys and games for children were invented at this time, and partly because of mass production, became popular and widespread. Partly it was also due to growing prosperity in the rising middle classes, whose children did not have to work.
I’m certain, for instance, that little girls have always played with dolls, and no doubt made homes for them, with whatever was to hand and imagination. But the boom in the production of dolls houses and tiny furniture etc dates from the Victorian era — that’s what I meant.
Kathy, yes, I probably phrased that badly — of course toys have always existed for children, though mainly the children of the wealthy. What I meant was that a lot of *new* toys and games for children were invented at this time, and partly because of mass production, became popular and widespread. Partly it was also due to growing prosperity in the rising middle classes, whose children did not have to work.
I’m certain, for instance, that little girls have always played with dolls, and no doubt made homes for them, with whatever was to hand and imagination. But the boom in the production of dolls houses and tiny furniture etc dates from the Victorian era — that’s what I meant.
Kathy, yes, I probably phrased that badly — of course toys have always existed for children, though mainly the children of the wealthy. What I meant was that a lot of *new* toys and games for children were invented at this time, and partly because of mass production, became popular and widespread. Partly it was also due to growing prosperity in the rising middle classes, whose children did not have to work.
I’m certain, for instance, that little girls have always played with dolls, and no doubt made homes for them, with whatever was to hand and imagination. But the boom in the production of dolls houses and tiny furniture etc dates from the Victorian era — that’s what I meant.
Pattie, yes, balance is important. I think some people are naturally more organized than others and those of us who aren’t need to be taught methods and strategies. But there’s no reason why a lot of that can’t be done through play. *g*
I had a Barbie, but never a Ken. And I made most of the things for my Barbie — I think that was the attraction for me — the making.
Pattie, yes, balance is important. I think some people are naturally more organized than others and those of us who aren’t need to be taught methods and strategies. But there’s no reason why a lot of that can’t be done through play. *g*
I had a Barbie, but never a Ken. And I made most of the things for my Barbie — I think that was the attraction for me — the making.
Pattie, yes, balance is important. I think some people are naturally more organized than others and those of us who aren’t need to be taught methods and strategies. But there’s no reason why a lot of that can’t be done through play. *g*
I had a Barbie, but never a Ken. And I made most of the things for my Barbie — I think that was the attraction for me — the making.
Pattie, yes, balance is important. I think some people are naturally more organized than others and those of us who aren’t need to be taught methods and strategies. But there’s no reason why a lot of that can’t be done through play. *g*
I had a Barbie, but never a Ken. And I made most of the things for my Barbie — I think that was the attraction for me — the making.
Pattie, yes, balance is important. I think some people are naturally more organized than others and those of us who aren’t need to be taught methods and strategies. But there’s no reason why a lot of that can’t be done through play. *g*
I had a Barbie, but never a Ken. And I made most of the things for my Barbie — I think that was the attraction for me — the making.
Thanks, Meoskop, yes, sorry I’ve explained above that I could have phrased the toy production section more clearly. And of course mass production made greater toy production possible, but my point was that there was a commercial market for toys now, that in a different age would have been unlikely.
And yes, I *am* looking through a western lens, specifically at English culture, as that’s where I set my books. This isn’t meant to be an academic article on childhood, but a light, entertaining blog, relating to books and reading and history.
But I would argue that sending a seven year old child to school is very different to sending them off to live in another castle or another country, without family to support them, relying on the goodwill of whoever happened to be in charge of them. Yes, it was preparing a child for their future, but it was a sink or swim kind of methodology. The English boarding school system can be tough on young children, but the sending of children to sea and to war — all those little drummer boys — was very harsh, IMO.
Sounds like you had a busy working life as a child, and yes, I agree that there are many children in our society working invisibly. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
Thanks, Meoskop, yes, sorry I’ve explained above that I could have phrased the toy production section more clearly. And of course mass production made greater toy production possible, but my point was that there was a commercial market for toys now, that in a different age would have been unlikely.
And yes, I *am* looking through a western lens, specifically at English culture, as that’s where I set my books. This isn’t meant to be an academic article on childhood, but a light, entertaining blog, relating to books and reading and history.
But I would argue that sending a seven year old child to school is very different to sending them off to live in another castle or another country, without family to support them, relying on the goodwill of whoever happened to be in charge of them. Yes, it was preparing a child for their future, but it was a sink or swim kind of methodology. The English boarding school system can be tough on young children, but the sending of children to sea and to war — all those little drummer boys — was very harsh, IMO.
Sounds like you had a busy working life as a child, and yes, I agree that there are many children in our society working invisibly. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
Thanks, Meoskop, yes, sorry I’ve explained above that I could have phrased the toy production section more clearly. And of course mass production made greater toy production possible, but my point was that there was a commercial market for toys now, that in a different age would have been unlikely.
And yes, I *am* looking through a western lens, specifically at English culture, as that’s where I set my books. This isn’t meant to be an academic article on childhood, but a light, entertaining blog, relating to books and reading and history.
But I would argue that sending a seven year old child to school is very different to sending them off to live in another castle or another country, without family to support them, relying on the goodwill of whoever happened to be in charge of them. Yes, it was preparing a child for their future, but it was a sink or swim kind of methodology. The English boarding school system can be tough on young children, but the sending of children to sea and to war — all those little drummer boys — was very harsh, IMO.
Sounds like you had a busy working life as a child, and yes, I agree that there are many children in our society working invisibly. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
Thanks, Meoskop, yes, sorry I’ve explained above that I could have phrased the toy production section more clearly. And of course mass production made greater toy production possible, but my point was that there was a commercial market for toys now, that in a different age would have been unlikely.
And yes, I *am* looking through a western lens, specifically at English culture, as that’s where I set my books. This isn’t meant to be an academic article on childhood, but a light, entertaining blog, relating to books and reading and history.
But I would argue that sending a seven year old child to school is very different to sending them off to live in another castle or another country, without family to support them, relying on the goodwill of whoever happened to be in charge of them. Yes, it was preparing a child for their future, but it was a sink or swim kind of methodology. The English boarding school system can be tough on young children, but the sending of children to sea and to war — all those little drummer boys — was very harsh, IMO.
Sounds like you had a busy working life as a child, and yes, I agree that there are many children in our society working invisibly. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
Thanks, Meoskop, yes, sorry I’ve explained above that I could have phrased the toy production section more clearly. And of course mass production made greater toy production possible, but my point was that there was a commercial market for toys now, that in a different age would have been unlikely.
And yes, I *am* looking through a western lens, specifically at English culture, as that’s where I set my books. This isn’t meant to be an academic article on childhood, but a light, entertaining blog, relating to books and reading and history.
But I would argue that sending a seven year old child to school is very different to sending them off to live in another castle or another country, without family to support them, relying on the goodwill of whoever happened to be in charge of them. Yes, it was preparing a child for their future, but it was a sink or swim kind of methodology. The English boarding school system can be tough on young children, but the sending of children to sea and to war — all those little drummer boys — was very harsh, IMO.
Sounds like you had a busy working life as a child, and yes, I agree that there are many children in our society working invisibly. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
I loved my Barbies & other dolls as a girl. As a teenager, I got chores, such as laundry, raking leaves, mowing the lawn & ironing. I agree that kids time is managed differently now, as opposed to when I was a child. There are many more organized activities. However, I will also say that it is a different world. I grew up on a street with lots of kids & no traffic, so it was easier to walk from house to house. Our kids have to grow up worrying about traffic, because there are more cars & everyone is in a hurry. There is also the “stranger danger” aspect, which didn’t seem prevalent when I was young. That being said, it does seem like the children you reference had a harder life & obviously less modern conveniences.
I loved my Barbies & other dolls as a girl. As a teenager, I got chores, such as laundry, raking leaves, mowing the lawn & ironing. I agree that kids time is managed differently now, as opposed to when I was a child. There are many more organized activities. However, I will also say that it is a different world. I grew up on a street with lots of kids & no traffic, so it was easier to walk from house to house. Our kids have to grow up worrying about traffic, because there are more cars & everyone is in a hurry. There is also the “stranger danger” aspect, which didn’t seem prevalent when I was young. That being said, it does seem like the children you reference had a harder life & obviously less modern conveniences.
I loved my Barbies & other dolls as a girl. As a teenager, I got chores, such as laundry, raking leaves, mowing the lawn & ironing. I agree that kids time is managed differently now, as opposed to when I was a child. There are many more organized activities. However, I will also say that it is a different world. I grew up on a street with lots of kids & no traffic, so it was easier to walk from house to house. Our kids have to grow up worrying about traffic, because there are more cars & everyone is in a hurry. There is also the “stranger danger” aspect, which didn’t seem prevalent when I was young. That being said, it does seem like the children you reference had a harder life & obviously less modern conveniences.
I loved my Barbies & other dolls as a girl. As a teenager, I got chores, such as laundry, raking leaves, mowing the lawn & ironing. I agree that kids time is managed differently now, as opposed to when I was a child. There are many more organized activities. However, I will also say that it is a different world. I grew up on a street with lots of kids & no traffic, so it was easier to walk from house to house. Our kids have to grow up worrying about traffic, because there are more cars & everyone is in a hurry. There is also the “stranger danger” aspect, which didn’t seem prevalent when I was young. That being said, it does seem like the children you reference had a harder life & obviously less modern conveniences.
I loved my Barbies & other dolls as a girl. As a teenager, I got chores, such as laundry, raking leaves, mowing the lawn & ironing. I agree that kids time is managed differently now, as opposed to when I was a child. There are many more organized activities. However, I will also say that it is a different world. I grew up on a street with lots of kids & no traffic, so it was easier to walk from house to house. Our kids have to grow up worrying about traffic, because there are more cars & everyone is in a hurry. There is also the “stranger danger” aspect, which didn’t seem prevalent when I was young. That being said, it does seem like the children you reference had a harder life & obviously less modern conveniences.
I cannot imagine sending a 7-year-old child off to boarding school or a faraway castle for training but I guess that’s what happens when history is viewed through a modern lens. That’s what they knew and what they did in those days.
I grew up in a small town in the 50’s where our off-school time was not structured and instead of being entertained by technology, we entertained ourselves. Most of our time was spent outdoors engaged in physical activity and exercising our imaginations. We had chores but they were easy things like washing the dishes, setting the table for meals, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. I started babysitting my younger siblings when I was around 12 (not a paid job). I got a paid job when I was 16 but even that never interfered with my extra-curricular activities at school. To put it bluntly, I was blessed.
There were many kids at my school whose families owned farms. Those kids worked hard! They’d be up at dawn and put in a couple hours in the fields before going to school then would be back at it as soon as they got home. That’s the kind of childhood my mom had which probably accounts for the light load we had as kids.
One of the toys I loved as a child was my little metal potholder loom. We’d weave potholders and sell them to the neighbors. When I hit my teens, my go-to “toy” was my transistor radio and, of course, my books. I’ve always loved books.
I cannot imagine sending a 7-year-old child off to boarding school or a faraway castle for training but I guess that’s what happens when history is viewed through a modern lens. That’s what they knew and what they did in those days.
I grew up in a small town in the 50’s where our off-school time was not structured and instead of being entertained by technology, we entertained ourselves. Most of our time was spent outdoors engaged in physical activity and exercising our imaginations. We had chores but they were easy things like washing the dishes, setting the table for meals, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. I started babysitting my younger siblings when I was around 12 (not a paid job). I got a paid job when I was 16 but even that never interfered with my extra-curricular activities at school. To put it bluntly, I was blessed.
There were many kids at my school whose families owned farms. Those kids worked hard! They’d be up at dawn and put in a couple hours in the fields before going to school then would be back at it as soon as they got home. That’s the kind of childhood my mom had which probably accounts for the light load we had as kids.
One of the toys I loved as a child was my little metal potholder loom. We’d weave potholders and sell them to the neighbors. When I hit my teens, my go-to “toy” was my transistor radio and, of course, my books. I’ve always loved books.
I cannot imagine sending a 7-year-old child off to boarding school or a faraway castle for training but I guess that’s what happens when history is viewed through a modern lens. That’s what they knew and what they did in those days.
I grew up in a small town in the 50’s where our off-school time was not structured and instead of being entertained by technology, we entertained ourselves. Most of our time was spent outdoors engaged in physical activity and exercising our imaginations. We had chores but they were easy things like washing the dishes, setting the table for meals, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. I started babysitting my younger siblings when I was around 12 (not a paid job). I got a paid job when I was 16 but even that never interfered with my extra-curricular activities at school. To put it bluntly, I was blessed.
There were many kids at my school whose families owned farms. Those kids worked hard! They’d be up at dawn and put in a couple hours in the fields before going to school then would be back at it as soon as they got home. That’s the kind of childhood my mom had which probably accounts for the light load we had as kids.
One of the toys I loved as a child was my little metal potholder loom. We’d weave potholders and sell them to the neighbors. When I hit my teens, my go-to “toy” was my transistor radio and, of course, my books. I’ve always loved books.
I cannot imagine sending a 7-year-old child off to boarding school or a faraway castle for training but I guess that’s what happens when history is viewed through a modern lens. That’s what they knew and what they did in those days.
I grew up in a small town in the 50’s where our off-school time was not structured and instead of being entertained by technology, we entertained ourselves. Most of our time was spent outdoors engaged in physical activity and exercising our imaginations. We had chores but they were easy things like washing the dishes, setting the table for meals, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. I started babysitting my younger siblings when I was around 12 (not a paid job). I got a paid job when I was 16 but even that never interfered with my extra-curricular activities at school. To put it bluntly, I was blessed.
There were many kids at my school whose families owned farms. Those kids worked hard! They’d be up at dawn and put in a couple hours in the fields before going to school then would be back at it as soon as they got home. That’s the kind of childhood my mom had which probably accounts for the light load we had as kids.
One of the toys I loved as a child was my little metal potholder loom. We’d weave potholders and sell them to the neighbors. When I hit my teens, my go-to “toy” was my transistor radio and, of course, my books. I’ve always loved books.
I cannot imagine sending a 7-year-old child off to boarding school or a faraway castle for training but I guess that’s what happens when history is viewed through a modern lens. That’s what they knew and what they did in those days.
I grew up in a small town in the 50’s where our off-school time was not structured and instead of being entertained by technology, we entertained ourselves. Most of our time was spent outdoors engaged in physical activity and exercising our imaginations. We had chores but they were easy things like washing the dishes, setting the table for meals, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. I started babysitting my younger siblings when I was around 12 (not a paid job). I got a paid job when I was 16 but even that never interfered with my extra-curricular activities at school. To put it bluntly, I was blessed.
There were many kids at my school whose families owned farms. Those kids worked hard! They’d be up at dawn and put in a couple hours in the fields before going to school then would be back at it as soon as they got home. That’s the kind of childhood my mom had which probably accounts for the light load we had as kids.
One of the toys I loved as a child was my little metal potholder loom. We’d weave potholders and sell them to the neighbors. When I hit my teens, my go-to “toy” was my transistor radio and, of course, my books. I’ve always loved books.
Tru dat. When I see little tots signed up for gymnastics I just shiver.
Tru dat. When I see little tots signed up for gymnastics I just shiver.
Tru dat. When I see little tots signed up for gymnastics I just shiver.
Tru dat. When I see little tots signed up for gymnastics I just shiver.
Tru dat. When I see little tots signed up for gymnastics I just shiver.
I grew up in the tag end of the 1930s Depression.
I did have chores..washing dishes, helping with the laundry, hanging out clothes, sweeping and dusting.
About 10ish I started “passing out” advertiseing
papers for a theatre chain on Saturdays for about 4 hours…pay was two theatre passes. Another Saturday chore was checking trash bins in the city for scrap copper and aluminium, when sold price was 11 cents a pound.
But I also had time to play outside and read.
I grew up in the tag end of the 1930s Depression.
I did have chores..washing dishes, helping with the laundry, hanging out clothes, sweeping and dusting.
About 10ish I started “passing out” advertiseing
papers for a theatre chain on Saturdays for about 4 hours…pay was two theatre passes. Another Saturday chore was checking trash bins in the city for scrap copper and aluminium, when sold price was 11 cents a pound.
But I also had time to play outside and read.
I grew up in the tag end of the 1930s Depression.
I did have chores..washing dishes, helping with the laundry, hanging out clothes, sweeping and dusting.
About 10ish I started “passing out” advertiseing
papers for a theatre chain on Saturdays for about 4 hours…pay was two theatre passes. Another Saturday chore was checking trash bins in the city for scrap copper and aluminium, when sold price was 11 cents a pound.
But I also had time to play outside and read.
I grew up in the tag end of the 1930s Depression.
I did have chores..washing dishes, helping with the laundry, hanging out clothes, sweeping and dusting.
About 10ish I started “passing out” advertiseing
papers for a theatre chain on Saturdays for about 4 hours…pay was two theatre passes. Another Saturday chore was checking trash bins in the city for scrap copper and aluminium, when sold price was 11 cents a pound.
But I also had time to play outside and read.
I grew up in the tag end of the 1930s Depression.
I did have chores..washing dishes, helping with the laundry, hanging out clothes, sweeping and dusting.
About 10ish I started “passing out” advertiseing
papers for a theatre chain on Saturdays for about 4 hours…pay was two theatre passes. Another Saturday chore was checking trash bins in the city for scrap copper and aluminium, when sold price was 11 cents a pound.
But I also had time to play outside and read.
Sharlene, yes, I think in many ways the kids of today don't have that freedom to play outside and roam the way we did.
Your comment about raking leaves reminded me of a friend of mine, whose neighbor (we were the same age — teenagers) wasn't allowed in the house after school until she'd picked up every leaf on the lawn. I had mostly indoor jobs — my brother got the lawn mowing and raking etc.
Thanks for joining in the conversation.
Sharlene, yes, I think in many ways the kids of today don't have that freedom to play outside and roam the way we did.
Your comment about raking leaves reminded me of a friend of mine, whose neighbor (we were the same age — teenagers) wasn't allowed in the house after school until she'd picked up every leaf on the lawn. I had mostly indoor jobs — my brother got the lawn mowing and raking etc.
Thanks for joining in the conversation.
Sharlene, yes, I think in many ways the kids of today don't have that freedom to play outside and roam the way we did.
Your comment about raking leaves reminded me of a friend of mine, whose neighbor (we were the same age — teenagers) wasn't allowed in the house after school until she'd picked up every leaf on the lawn. I had mostly indoor jobs — my brother got the lawn mowing and raking etc.
Thanks for joining in the conversation.
Sharlene, yes, I think in many ways the kids of today don't have that freedom to play outside and roam the way we did.
Your comment about raking leaves reminded me of a friend of mine, whose neighbor (we were the same age — teenagers) wasn't allowed in the house after school until she'd picked up every leaf on the lawn. I had mostly indoor jobs — my brother got the lawn mowing and raking etc.
Thanks for joining in the conversation.
Sharlene, yes, I think in many ways the kids of today don't have that freedom to play outside and roam the way we did.
Your comment about raking leaves reminded me of a friend of mine, whose neighbor (we were the same age — teenagers) wasn't allowed in the house after school until she'd picked up every leaf on the lawn. I had mostly indoor jobs — my brother got the lawn mowing and raking etc.
Thanks for joining in the conversation.
PJ, it wasn't all that long ago they sent kids off so young to boarding school. In fact I think some still do it today.
A friend of mine's father was sent to boarding school, along with his older brothers, at the age of four!
No special reason that I know of, except that the school had just opened, and his parents thought it was a good idea to send them off together.
They didn't even live in an isolated region, either — just a couple of suburbs away.
At four! I can't imagine it. He was just a baby.
I was lucky, too. I had to do chores, but I also grew up in the country and some of my friends were up at dawn to do the milking before school, and other farm jobs, too.
Thanks for dropping by — I'm enjoying the discussion.
PJ, it wasn't all that long ago they sent kids off so young to boarding school. In fact I think some still do it today.
A friend of mine's father was sent to boarding school, along with his older brothers, at the age of four!
No special reason that I know of, except that the school had just opened, and his parents thought it was a good idea to send them off together.
They didn't even live in an isolated region, either — just a couple of suburbs away.
At four! I can't imagine it. He was just a baby.
I was lucky, too. I had to do chores, but I also grew up in the country and some of my friends were up at dawn to do the milking before school, and other farm jobs, too.
Thanks for dropping by — I'm enjoying the discussion.
PJ, it wasn't all that long ago they sent kids off so young to boarding school. In fact I think some still do it today.
A friend of mine's father was sent to boarding school, along with his older brothers, at the age of four!
No special reason that I know of, except that the school had just opened, and his parents thought it was a good idea to send them off together.
They didn't even live in an isolated region, either — just a couple of suburbs away.
At four! I can't imagine it. He was just a baby.
I was lucky, too. I had to do chores, but I also grew up in the country and some of my friends were up at dawn to do the milking before school, and other farm jobs, too.
Thanks for dropping by — I'm enjoying the discussion.
PJ, it wasn't all that long ago they sent kids off so young to boarding school. In fact I think some still do it today.
A friend of mine's father was sent to boarding school, along with his older brothers, at the age of four!
No special reason that I know of, except that the school had just opened, and his parents thought it was a good idea to send them off together.
They didn't even live in an isolated region, either — just a couple of suburbs away.
At four! I can't imagine it. He was just a baby.
I was lucky, too. I had to do chores, but I also grew up in the country and some of my friends were up at dawn to do the milking before school, and other farm jobs, too.
Thanks for dropping by — I'm enjoying the discussion.
PJ, it wasn't all that long ago they sent kids off so young to boarding school. In fact I think some still do it today.
A friend of mine's father was sent to boarding school, along with his older brothers, at the age of four!
No special reason that I know of, except that the school had just opened, and his parents thought it was a good idea to send them off together.
They didn't even live in an isolated region, either — just a couple of suburbs away.
At four! I can't imagine it. He was just a baby.
I was lucky, too. I had to do chores, but I also grew up in the country and some of my friends were up at dawn to do the milking before school, and other farm jobs, too.
Thanks for dropping by — I'm enjoying the discussion.
Oh I agree. I've seen "gym for toddlers" and "aerobics for kids" advertised and that just makes me shake my head.
What's wrong with playing? Why does exercise have to be organized at that age?
I understand that people living in apartments might not have space for kids to play, but surely a park or a playground for free-form running, jumping, playing, climbing is better than herding them together to do aerobics in unison. And making them conform or fail.
Oh I agree. I've seen "gym for toddlers" and "aerobics for kids" advertised and that just makes me shake my head.
What's wrong with playing? Why does exercise have to be organized at that age?
I understand that people living in apartments might not have space for kids to play, but surely a park or a playground for free-form running, jumping, playing, climbing is better than herding them together to do aerobics in unison. And making them conform or fail.
Oh I agree. I've seen "gym for toddlers" and "aerobics for kids" advertised and that just makes me shake my head.
What's wrong with playing? Why does exercise have to be organized at that age?
I understand that people living in apartments might not have space for kids to play, but surely a park or a playground for free-form running, jumping, playing, climbing is better than herding them together to do aerobics in unison. And making them conform or fail.
Oh I agree. I've seen "gym for toddlers" and "aerobics for kids" advertised and that just makes me shake my head.
What's wrong with playing? Why does exercise have to be organized at that age?
I understand that people living in apartments might not have space for kids to play, but surely a park or a playground for free-form running, jumping, playing, climbing is better than herding them together to do aerobics in unison. And making them conform or fail.
Oh I agree. I've seen "gym for toddlers" and "aerobics for kids" advertised and that just makes me shake my head.
What's wrong with playing? Why does exercise have to be organized at that age?
I understand that people living in apartments might not have space for kids to play, but surely a park or a playground for free-form running, jumping, playing, climbing is better than herding them together to do aerobics in unison. And making them conform or fail.
I forgot to say, I looked up “potholder looms” on google and thought, what fun. I made my own loom (a bit wonky) and did a bit of weaving of small things when I was a kid. These look fabulous. I’ve always wanted to try weaving on a proper loom.
I forgot to say, I looked up “potholder looms” on google and thought, what fun. I made my own loom (a bit wonky) and did a bit of weaving of small things when I was a kid. These look fabulous. I’ve always wanted to try weaving on a proper loom.
I forgot to say, I looked up “potholder looms” on google and thought, what fun. I made my own loom (a bit wonky) and did a bit of weaving of small things when I was a kid. These look fabulous. I’ve always wanted to try weaving on a proper loom.
I forgot to say, I looked up “potholder looms” on google and thought, what fun. I made my own loom (a bit wonky) and did a bit of weaving of small things when I was a kid. These look fabulous. I’ve always wanted to try weaving on a proper loom.
I forgot to say, I looked up “potholder looms” on google and thought, what fun. I made my own loom (a bit wonky) and did a bit of weaving of small things when I was a kid. These look fabulous. I’ve always wanted to try weaving on a proper loom.
Louis, I do like the sound of those free theater passes. Going to am movie was a real occasion when I was a kid in the country. And I remember my brother and his friends scrounging for scrap metal that they sold for cash, but it was just pocket money for them. And when I was a kid we all combed the neighborhood collecting soft drink bottles to cash in, and then we spent the money on sweets or icecreams. Coke bottles were the best — we’d get 5 cents each return on them. That added up.
Louis, I do like the sound of those free theater passes. Going to am movie was a real occasion when I was a kid in the country. And I remember my brother and his friends scrounging for scrap metal that they sold for cash, but it was just pocket money for them. And when I was a kid we all combed the neighborhood collecting soft drink bottles to cash in, and then we spent the money on sweets or icecreams. Coke bottles were the best — we’d get 5 cents each return on them. That added up.
Louis, I do like the sound of those free theater passes. Going to am movie was a real occasion when I was a kid in the country. And I remember my brother and his friends scrounging for scrap metal that they sold for cash, but it was just pocket money for them. And when I was a kid we all combed the neighborhood collecting soft drink bottles to cash in, and then we spent the money on sweets or icecreams. Coke bottles were the best — we’d get 5 cents each return on them. That added up.
Louis, I do like the sound of those free theater passes. Going to am movie was a real occasion when I was a kid in the country. And I remember my brother and his friends scrounging for scrap metal that they sold for cash, but it was just pocket money for them. And when I was a kid we all combed the neighborhood collecting soft drink bottles to cash in, and then we spent the money on sweets or icecreams. Coke bottles were the best — we’d get 5 cents each return on them. That added up.
Louis, I do like the sound of those free theater passes. Going to am movie was a real occasion when I was a kid in the country. And I remember my brother and his friends scrounging for scrap metal that they sold for cash, but it was just pocket money for them. And when I was a kid we all combed the neighborhood collecting soft drink bottles to cash in, and then we spent the money on sweets or icecreams. Coke bottles were the best — we’d get 5 cents each return on them. That added up.
Well, I was participating in the discussion – I’ve done so off and on here since the blog started so I know the tone and focus. But I’ll leave it there.
Well, I was participating in the discussion – I’ve done so off and on here since the blog started so I know the tone and focus. But I’ll leave it there.
Well, I was participating in the discussion – I’ve done so off and on here since the blog started so I know the tone and focus. But I’ll leave it there.
Well, I was participating in the discussion – I’ve done so off and on here since the blog started so I know the tone and focus. But I’ll leave it there.
Well, I was participating in the discussion – I’ve done so off and on here since the blog started so I know the tone and focus. But I’ll leave it there.
Yes, I know you were, Meoskop and I know you visit regularly, and I appreciate it.
I did thank you for joining in. We don't have to agree on everything
Yes, I know you were, Meoskop and I know you visit regularly, and I appreciate it.
I did thank you for joining in. We don't have to agree on everything
Yes, I know you were, Meoskop and I know you visit regularly, and I appreciate it.
I did thank you for joining in. We don't have to agree on everything
Yes, I know you were, Meoskop and I know you visit regularly, and I appreciate it.
I did thank you for joining in. We don't have to agree on everything
Yes, I know you were, Meoskop and I know you visit regularly, and I appreciate it.
I did thank you for joining in. We don't have to agree on everything
I went to gymnastics when I was three – and had the time of my life! Jumping on huge trampolines, into foam pits, swinging on bars. It wasn’t a structured Soviet-style thing. I don’t see anything wrong with kids getting together to have active fun.
Over-scheduling is ridiculous, sure. But there’s nothing wrong with an after school activity a child enjoys, especially with the obesity rate rising and rising…
I went to gymnastics when I was three – and had the time of my life! Jumping on huge trampolines, into foam pits, swinging on bars. It wasn’t a structured Soviet-style thing. I don’t see anything wrong with kids getting together to have active fun.
Over-scheduling is ridiculous, sure. But there’s nothing wrong with an after school activity a child enjoys, especially with the obesity rate rising and rising…
I went to gymnastics when I was three – and had the time of my life! Jumping on huge trampolines, into foam pits, swinging on bars. It wasn’t a structured Soviet-style thing. I don’t see anything wrong with kids getting together to have active fun.
Over-scheduling is ridiculous, sure. But there’s nothing wrong with an after school activity a child enjoys, especially with the obesity rate rising and rising…
I went to gymnastics when I was three – and had the time of my life! Jumping on huge trampolines, into foam pits, swinging on bars. It wasn’t a structured Soviet-style thing. I don’t see anything wrong with kids getting together to have active fun.
Over-scheduling is ridiculous, sure. But there’s nothing wrong with an after school activity a child enjoys, especially with the obesity rate rising and rising…
I went to gymnastics when I was three – and had the time of my life! Jumping on huge trampolines, into foam pits, swinging on bars. It wasn’t a structured Soviet-style thing. I don’t see anything wrong with kids getting together to have active fun.
Over-scheduling is ridiculous, sure. But there’s nothing wrong with an after school activity a child enjoys, especially with the obesity rate rising and rising…
Anne–
Not only are modern western children often overscheduled, but our commercialized culture keeps breaking down the age groups further and further. Childhood became a time period, teenagers are now another, and “tweens” have emerged between those groups. Plus–new adults, anyone?
I grew up on a part time working farm, and of course we had chores. And books, and woods to play in, and a pond. I always preferred stuffed animals to dolls, but books were the best “toys” of all. No surprise there, seeing where I’ve ended up!
Anne–
Not only are modern western children often overscheduled, but our commercialized culture keeps breaking down the age groups further and further. Childhood became a time period, teenagers are now another, and “tweens” have emerged between those groups. Plus–new adults, anyone?
I grew up on a part time working farm, and of course we had chores. And books, and woods to play in, and a pond. I always preferred stuffed animals to dolls, but books were the best “toys” of all. No surprise there, seeing where I’ve ended up!
Anne–
Not only are modern western children often overscheduled, but our commercialized culture keeps breaking down the age groups further and further. Childhood became a time period, teenagers are now another, and “tweens” have emerged between those groups. Plus–new adults, anyone?
I grew up on a part time working farm, and of course we had chores. And books, and woods to play in, and a pond. I always preferred stuffed animals to dolls, but books were the best “toys” of all. No surprise there, seeing where I’ve ended up!
Anne–
Not only are modern western children often overscheduled, but our commercialized culture keeps breaking down the age groups further and further. Childhood became a time period, teenagers are now another, and “tweens” have emerged between those groups. Plus–new adults, anyone?
I grew up on a part time working farm, and of course we had chores. And books, and woods to play in, and a pond. I always preferred stuffed animals to dolls, but books were the best “toys” of all. No surprise there, seeing where I’ve ended up!
Anne–
Not only are modern western children often overscheduled, but our commercialized culture keeps breaking down the age groups further and further. Childhood became a time period, teenagers are now another, and “tweens” have emerged between those groups. Plus–new adults, anyone?
I grew up on a part time working farm, and of course we had chores. And books, and woods to play in, and a pond. I always preferred stuffed animals to dolls, but books were the best “toys” of all. No surprise there, seeing where I’ve ended up!
Glad to hear the alternative point of view, Sonya. I must admit I was a bit distressed watching a little group of toddlers earnestly trying to keep up with an instructor. Seemed to take all the potential fun out of it. But as you point out, it’s all in the way it’s handled.
Glad to hear the alternative point of view, Sonya. I must admit I was a bit distressed watching a little group of toddlers earnestly trying to keep up with an instructor. Seemed to take all the potential fun out of it. But as you point out, it’s all in the way it’s handled.
Glad to hear the alternative point of view, Sonya. I must admit I was a bit distressed watching a little group of toddlers earnestly trying to keep up with an instructor. Seemed to take all the potential fun out of it. But as you point out, it’s all in the way it’s handled.
Glad to hear the alternative point of view, Sonya. I must admit I was a bit distressed watching a little group of toddlers earnestly trying to keep up with an instructor. Seemed to take all the potential fun out of it. But as you point out, it’s all in the way it’s handled.
Glad to hear the alternative point of view, Sonya. I must admit I was a bit distressed watching a little group of toddlers earnestly trying to keep up with an instructor. Seemed to take all the potential fun out of it. But as you point out, it’s all in the way it’s handled.
I consider my childhood idyllic. I had household chores and homework, but we lived in the country and I was free after school to explore in the woods, and we organized our own games without adult supervision. I think some of the games were handed down from previous generations of children: Capture the White Flag, Three Steps Over Germany, Kick the Can. We also played with marbles, jacks, board games like Monopoly and Risk. I learned how to cook, knit, sew and crochet from my mother and grandmother, but I considered it fun, not work. We also swam like fish and played water tag in the neighborhood pool. I remember my best girlfriend and I wrote up a neighborhood newsletter one summer, had copies mimeographed, and we sold it door to door. I started getting summer jobs to earn money at about the age of 15. I don’t envy today’s kids, I think we had more fun and more freedom. It does amaze me though, how many of them don’t know how to cook at all! I could competently feed myself from about age 10 on. Also, from about age 12 on, I was considered capable of taking a bus to New York(about an hour away) and then taking the subway alone to visit a friend who lived in Queens. Her and I would roam all over New York City on our own, visiting museums, shopping, etc. It was considered normal in the 1960’s. I think few parents now would allow it, or if they did let them travel alone, they would have to be in constant contact by cell phone.
I consider my childhood idyllic. I had household chores and homework, but we lived in the country and I was free after school to explore in the woods, and we organized our own games without adult supervision. I think some of the games were handed down from previous generations of children: Capture the White Flag, Three Steps Over Germany, Kick the Can. We also played with marbles, jacks, board games like Monopoly and Risk. I learned how to cook, knit, sew and crochet from my mother and grandmother, but I considered it fun, not work. We also swam like fish and played water tag in the neighborhood pool. I remember my best girlfriend and I wrote up a neighborhood newsletter one summer, had copies mimeographed, and we sold it door to door. I started getting summer jobs to earn money at about the age of 15. I don’t envy today’s kids, I think we had more fun and more freedom. It does amaze me though, how many of them don’t know how to cook at all! I could competently feed myself from about age 10 on. Also, from about age 12 on, I was considered capable of taking a bus to New York(about an hour away) and then taking the subway alone to visit a friend who lived in Queens. Her and I would roam all over New York City on our own, visiting museums, shopping, etc. It was considered normal in the 1960’s. I think few parents now would allow it, or if they did let them travel alone, they would have to be in constant contact by cell phone.
I consider my childhood idyllic. I had household chores and homework, but we lived in the country and I was free after school to explore in the woods, and we organized our own games without adult supervision. I think some of the games were handed down from previous generations of children: Capture the White Flag, Three Steps Over Germany, Kick the Can. We also played with marbles, jacks, board games like Monopoly and Risk. I learned how to cook, knit, sew and crochet from my mother and grandmother, but I considered it fun, not work. We also swam like fish and played water tag in the neighborhood pool. I remember my best girlfriend and I wrote up a neighborhood newsletter one summer, had copies mimeographed, and we sold it door to door. I started getting summer jobs to earn money at about the age of 15. I don’t envy today’s kids, I think we had more fun and more freedom. It does amaze me though, how many of them don’t know how to cook at all! I could competently feed myself from about age 10 on. Also, from about age 12 on, I was considered capable of taking a bus to New York(about an hour away) and then taking the subway alone to visit a friend who lived in Queens. Her and I would roam all over New York City on our own, visiting museums, shopping, etc. It was considered normal in the 1960’s. I think few parents now would allow it, or if they did let them travel alone, they would have to be in constant contact by cell phone.
I consider my childhood idyllic. I had household chores and homework, but we lived in the country and I was free after school to explore in the woods, and we organized our own games without adult supervision. I think some of the games were handed down from previous generations of children: Capture the White Flag, Three Steps Over Germany, Kick the Can. We also played with marbles, jacks, board games like Monopoly and Risk. I learned how to cook, knit, sew and crochet from my mother and grandmother, but I considered it fun, not work. We also swam like fish and played water tag in the neighborhood pool. I remember my best girlfriend and I wrote up a neighborhood newsletter one summer, had copies mimeographed, and we sold it door to door. I started getting summer jobs to earn money at about the age of 15. I don’t envy today’s kids, I think we had more fun and more freedom. It does amaze me though, how many of them don’t know how to cook at all! I could competently feed myself from about age 10 on. Also, from about age 12 on, I was considered capable of taking a bus to New York(about an hour away) and then taking the subway alone to visit a friend who lived in Queens. Her and I would roam all over New York City on our own, visiting museums, shopping, etc. It was considered normal in the 1960’s. I think few parents now would allow it, or if they did let them travel alone, they would have to be in constant contact by cell phone.
I consider my childhood idyllic. I had household chores and homework, but we lived in the country and I was free after school to explore in the woods, and we organized our own games without adult supervision. I think some of the games were handed down from previous generations of children: Capture the White Flag, Three Steps Over Germany, Kick the Can. We also played with marbles, jacks, board games like Monopoly and Risk. I learned how to cook, knit, sew and crochet from my mother and grandmother, but I considered it fun, not work. We also swam like fish and played water tag in the neighborhood pool. I remember my best girlfriend and I wrote up a neighborhood newsletter one summer, had copies mimeographed, and we sold it door to door. I started getting summer jobs to earn money at about the age of 15. I don’t envy today’s kids, I think we had more fun and more freedom. It does amaze me though, how many of them don’t know how to cook at all! I could competently feed myself from about age 10 on. Also, from about age 12 on, I was considered capable of taking a bus to New York(about an hour away) and then taking the subway alone to visit a friend who lived in Queens. Her and I would roam all over New York City on our own, visiting museums, shopping, etc. It was considered normal in the 1960’s. I think few parents now would allow it, or if they did let them travel alone, they would have to be in constant contact by cell phone.