Lessons Learned in Childhood That Should Not Be Forgotten

As a child, we often learn important life skills that set the foundation for our future. However, many of these lessons are overlooked and not emphasized enough in modern education. In this article, we will delve into several critical lessons that children should learn, including the benefits of early formal religious education, resilience in the face of financial struggles, and the value of cursive writing.

Early Religious Education

I suggest every child learn about God and his truth at an early age. This perspective can help children see life in a better way and guide them to understand their identity and purpose. Early religious education can lay the groundwork for a strong ethical and moral framework. It can teach children about compassion, empathy, and the importance of ethics, which are crucial for a successful life.

Parents and guardians hold a significant responsibility in ensuring their children receive a good start in life. By facilitating their early education, they can help children develop a strong foundation that will benefit them throughout their lives. Today's technology and resources, such as psychologists, counselors, and online support systems, can further aid in this process.

Resilience and Survival

Childhood can be a challenging time, especially for those who grow up in less-than-ideal conditions. Learning to handle obstacles and survive is a vital skill that can be learned at a young age. One such lesson is about finances. Growing up on a farm or in a similar environment can be demanding, and children often have to balance school, household chores, and other activities. This challenges their organizational skills and teaches them the importance of planning and prioritization.

Puberty can be a tumultuous time, where children may face ridicule and criticism. Learning to develop a strong personality and to navigate social situations is crucial. This also includes developing a sense of humor to deal with stressful situations. Furthermore, learning to handle criticism and editing can be beneficial, as it teaches children to view disagreements productively rather than as negative attacks.

Physical and emotional resilience is another important skill that children can learn. For example, when the power goes out for an extended period, it teaches children to have contingency plans. Such experiences can foster a sense of independence and preparedness, which can be invaluable later in life. Learning to budget, manage finances, and work through challenges are all essential lessons that can shape a child's future.

The Importance of Cursive Writing

A lesson that is rarely emphasized in modern education is the art of cursive writing. Despite the prevalence of computers and other digital technologies, cursive writing is still a valuable skill. Brain science has shown that a different part of the brain is activated when writing by hand versus typing on a keyboard. This can improve memory, concentration, and cognitive development.

In many states, there is a resurgence of teaching cursive writing. However, many public schools have eliminated handwriting programs, which was a significant mistake. Manuscript handwriting or printing is not as thoroughly taught, leaving a gap in the development of fine motor skills and the ability to produce legible writing. Copywork, which involves tracing or copying text by hand, can greatly enhance a child's writing skills and patience.

Children should be taught the value of writing by hand because it fosters creativity and concentration. It is a unique form of expression that is still relevant in today's digital age. Parents and educators can encourage children to practice cursive writing, not just for academic purposes, but also for personal development and enjoyment.

In conclusion, childhood is a time when we learn important skills that can shape our future. Early formal religious education, resilience in facing financial and social challenges, and the art of cursive writing are all valuable lessons that should not be overlooked. By cultivating these skills in children, we can help them develop into well-rounded, resilient, and capable adults.