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I think the English speaking world is rather an exception in making overly safe playground, judging also by my experiences in Japan as well as Switzerland. Ther
by m_mueller 5y ago
I think the English speaking world is rather an exception in making overly safe playground, judging also by my experiences in Japan as well as Switzerland. There really are quite different cultures around how to raise children and keep them safe. In Japan it’s all about the community looking out for each other and their children. In Switzerland it’s teaching them responsibility as early as possible - e.g. it’s normal and encouraged to send 5yo kids to Kindergarden on their own, with appropriate training on how to cross streets etc. I guess in the US/UK it’s regulations and constant supervision by parents well into teen years?
- jimlikeslimes 5y ago>> I guess in the US/UK it’s regulations and constant supervision by parents well into teen years? Speaking from the UK... not really. Well, there are regulations, for example it's illegal to hit a child, but broadly you are free to allow the risks you feel appropriate. What they are tends to be quite specific to location e.g. rural vs urban. Constant supervision would be unusual for teens. I actually disagree with your main point, and see more similarities than differences across cultures!
- m_mueller 5y agoMaybe that part is only relevant to the US then? Afaik. many states have laws to require constant supervision till 12yo and people sometimes even get into trouble leaving kids playing in their own back yard.