We should treat children as adults ?

There is currently a clear debate within child psychology about whether or not parents should treat their children as adults. On the one hand there are those who say that children should not be treated as, adults, but that they should be allowed to experience their childhood in every way without keeping them aware of the horrible situations that adults can face in reality, since they say that this can create premature traumas that will prevent them from growing as socially acceptable people. On the other hand are people who agree that treating children from an early age as adults prepares them so that in the future they can face the world with maturity and knowledge. They also affirm that this will help them to be from an early age people aware of their environment and to acquire a sense of responsibility with themselves, and doesn’t allow them to become spoiled, because they learn to be independent.

In my opinion I agree that children are treated as adults, since in this way they are being taught from an early age to know about the reality of the environment that surrounds them and can be more perceptive and sensitive people. Also being treated as adults will allow them to have a clear difference between which actions are good and which are bad, being able to make bad decisions during their growth decrease.

I also take the point of view of those who do not agree with this method of parenting, because they usually think that children are being deprived of the possibility of growing up as children, but this cannot be further from reality, because treating children as adults and instilling in them to have a clear conscience does not mean that they will stop being children or doing things that the children do normally. That's why I'll mention some reasons why parents should implement treating their children as adults as an effective parenting method.

Kids will have a better understanding of boundaries

The phrase “kids will be kids” is often used as a justification for misbehaviour. For example, a child pushes in front of the line to get to the playground slide and someone comments, “kids will be kids.” As much as young children’s brains are developing, they still have the ability to learn what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour. If you, as a parent, want your child to learn that certain actions are wrong, you should start letting him know so that he begins to become aware of his actions. It’s about setting
boundaries and teaching them etiquette rules that will be useful for the rest of their life.

Kids will better understand responsibility

Children shouldn’t grow up stress-ridden, but they need to learn the basics of being responsible. For example, as adults, we might have children or pets to look after. We have housework to do. We have food to cook. If we let our children help with some of these activities, they will learn that responsibilities are a part of life. If you encourage your child to make their bed every day, to help wash up after dinner, to feed the pet goldfish, then you are teaching them that success happens when people work together.

Kids will appreciate the value of being kind and considerate

Teaching children empathy is one of the most important skills you can pass on. In a world where competition and power can often override caring about others, it is essential to focus our parenting on kindness. Rather than looking at your kids and thinking, “They’re too young to understand how other people feel,” teach them to know how others are feeling. 

Kids will really feel that they matter

When we sometimes look at kids as adults, they are more likely to feel that they are just like everyone else. Their age doesn’t mean that they don’t matter. Their thoughts and opinions are not any less important or valid. Let your child voice their thoughts on controversial topics. Let them express the individual that they are without censoring them completely. By seeing your child for who they are, rather than what you want them to be, you’re reminding them that they matter.