Other People's Kids

There used to be a time when parents were parents and kids were kids. Each had their own defined role which basically boiled down to this: parents spoke, kids listened. Not in all cases, but definitely in the public setting where the parent was at risk of being embarrassed amongst their peers.

The nature of my job means I come in contact with youth almost on a daily basis, albeit, indirectly (the day-to-day interaction is left up to my staff). Its a good thing too, because sometimes I feel the uncontrollable urge to tell a kid off for backtalk. I could not recall growing up thinking it was okay to swear around adults; it was something you just didn't do. When adults were around, the language was cleaned up and manners were usually observed. I can't tell you how many times I've been around youth and heard them use every expletive in the book, not to mention our favorite word, nigga.

Other people's kids...

I know with my child, I'm able to give her lessons on manners and how to act in different settings. I will be able to help her navigate different environments and give her proper discipline that will benefit her in the long run. It is my opinion that many parents simply don't want to be parents in the long run. The Learning Centers at my job have turned into day care centers for latch-key kids whose parents either are working or have pushed them out the door, not to be bothered. So they come to us with the lessons (or lack thereof) from their parents: indiscipline and disinterest. And we're expected to break this cycle?

The best I've seen for re-teaching youth is in environments where they are able to be given positive reinforcement on a daily basis (e.g. a teacher who shows true interest). These are the unsung heroes that are able to give certain lessons not given by one's own biological parent.

Until then, they'll just be other people's kids...