About the part about kids learning how to keep themselves safe, and associating comfort with safety. Much like how you have always taught children to say, "no! That's not appropriate!" We can also teach kids to say things like, "no! That's not safe!" And, "no! That's not kind!"
However, there are some exceptional situations, in which a child IS allowed to say, "I don't feel comfortable doing that." They do not have to go on that seemingly scary amusement park or carnival ride, as there are likely other rides and activities at that park or carnival, and you're sure to find at least one that your child will enjoy. Your child doesn't have to ride a bike if they don't feel comfortable, as there are many other things that they can do for exercise or fun that don't involve screens (including, but not limited to crafts, helping with baking, running, walking, trampoline, swimming, etc.)
Leanne StrongMarch 15, 2025
There are some things that must happen, and are non-negotiable. Learning how to swim is nearly non-negotiable, because what if a child falls into a pool or body of water, and they don't have their life jacket or floaties on?
Joni HiltonSeptember 2, 2024
Just have to share this. When I saw the abbreviated title of your article in my email feed, it read: "Why Kids Need to be Pushed Out" - ha ha! I thought, Wow, Meridian is really taking a stand on getting those young adults out of the house. Alas, controversy averted. But I really did love the real topic of your piece.
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Leanne StrongAugust 6, 2025
About the part about kids learning how to keep themselves safe, and associating comfort with safety. Much like how you have always taught children to say, "no! That's not appropriate!" We can also teach kids to say things like, "no! That's not safe!" And, "no! That's not kind!" However, there are some exceptional situations, in which a child IS allowed to say, "I don't feel comfortable doing that." They do not have to go on that seemingly scary amusement park or carnival ride, as there are likely other rides and activities at that park or carnival, and you're sure to find at least one that your child will enjoy. Your child doesn't have to ride a bike if they don't feel comfortable, as there are many other things that they can do for exercise or fun that don't involve screens (including, but not limited to crafts, helping with baking, running, walking, trampoline, swimming, etc.)
Leanne StrongMarch 15, 2025
There are some things that must happen, and are non-negotiable. Learning how to swim is nearly non-negotiable, because what if a child falls into a pool or body of water, and they don't have their life jacket or floaties on?
Joni HiltonSeptember 2, 2024
Just have to share this. When I saw the abbreviated title of your article in my email feed, it read: "Why Kids Need to be Pushed Out" - ha ha! I thought, Wow, Meridian is really taking a stand on getting those young adults out of the house. Alas, controversy averted. But I really did love the real topic of your piece.
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