As I was sitting in a restaurant eating lunch recently there was a family sitting somewhat close to me. There were mom and dad, three kids that I am guessing were about seven, four, and two, as well as a grandma thrown in too. The two year old seemed to be a typical two year old which all parents know can be a very trying age. She had interest in many things such as crawling on the floor, grabbing things, talking a lot, and not wanting to listen very well. I watched without trying to seem obvious as the father continued to get more and more irritated at the daughter. He would raise his voice loudly: STOP, GET OUT OF THE FLOOR, I AM GETTING TIRED OF YOU NOT LISTENING! However, there was never any follow up other than raising his voice where everyone in the restaurant could here him. Meanwhile, the little girl paid him no attention whatsoever. She appeared to have her own agenda as two year old children often do. She eventually went too far and the dad and grandma had enough. She was told by the father and grandmother: Now you've gone too far! Look what you've done! You need a spanking now! Sure does! The two year old continued to smile and never really seem to give them another thought. She did receive a spat on the behind but never really reacted one way or the other. She was unfazed to say the least. We won't discuss or look at merits and negatives of corporal punishment. That is a discussion for another time.
However, the little girl brought a thought to mind concerning education and society in general. We are products of our environment whether we are adults, children, or even pets. If there are consistent parameters then there is a consistency in our habits and behavior. In both the home and in our school districts kids need guidance, direction, and parameters. They don't need these parameters on a part time basis. We can't be part time educators or parents. There is way too much at stake! This consistency must occur in both their personal and educational lives.
If there are inconsistent parameters in a person's life there will be inconsistencies in their behavior, work ethic, academic performance, etc. There are exceptions to this rule it seems with people that seem to be naturally more driven than others. Typically as adults we can stay consistent for the most part but children must have that consistency and guidance. If there are behavior issues and academic issues because of our inability as adults to provide the guidance that is necessary then we are failing children miserably. We have huge responsibilities as parents and educators to guide children and provide a consistent environment in their life.
We can't expect consistency in behavior and academic performance if we are not providing a stable consistent environment in both the home and in the classroom. The young girl who acted inappropriately due to lack of guidance and follow up seemed to be a product of her environment. In the end we will all be products of our environments.
