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Chapter 1 A Close-Up View of You
The middle child is not always given the same
responsibility as the oldest child or the same
attention as the youngest child. Children respond
to this middle position in different ways. Some
middle children become peacemakers. They find
themselves trying to settle differences between
other brothers and sisters. Some put extra effort
into their work, trying to outdo an older sibling.
Then, there are others who respond by choosing
unacceptable activities that will get attention.
An only child does not experience the daily
give-and-take of close sibling relationships. He or
she does not experience the conflicts that siblings
often have. As a result, this child may take longer
to learn to resolve conflicts with playmates.
Most families with an only child try to provide
opportunities for interaction with other children
so these skills are learned.
An only child generally spends more time
with adults in one-on-one situations. This can
stimulate adultlike behavior at an earlier age.
However, an only child is usually the center of
attention in those situations. When the attention
stops, the adultlike behavior is often replaced
with immature actions and attitudes. Interaction
with other children of the same age encourages
the child to behave more maturely.
Every culture in the world has its unique way
of life. The families within these cultures pass
on their customs and traditions to their children.
Within a large society, children are exposed to
different cultural experiences. A child in a small
farm town has different experiences from those
of a child in a large city. From these experiences,
children learn the appropriate behaviors of their
culture.
Multicultural influences in a society can also
affect life experiences within the family, 1-12.
Not everyone in a community will have similar
views or ways of living. A diverse community
can enrich the lives of all. Sharing values and
traditions within a community can help members
understand one another. This can help them
develop mutual respect even though they are
different in some ways.
Do you agree that siblings can be a
source of fun and good times? Do you
agree that oldest children are given more
responsibility in families?
Link to Your Life
Your Cultural Heritage
and Society
Each family environment is strongly
influenced by its cultural heritage. Your cultural
heritage is learned behavior that is passed from
generation to generation. Your family’s guidelines
and beliefs are part of your heritage. The holidays
you celebrate, the foods you eat, and the religious
traditions or ceremonies you observe are part of
your culture.
What multicultural influences can you
identify in your community? In what
ways have these influences affected you
personally?
Use What You Learn
The School
Environment
School-age children are busy experiencing new
situations and becoming more self-reliant. They
learn new skills, make new friends, and join group
activities. Their interests outside the family grow.
Families can help children adjust to their new
environment by providing encouragement, love,
and acceptance. They can help children practice
skills learned at school. They can attend school
events and show an interest in their children’s
schoolmates. This can help children develop a
positive attitude about their schoolwork.
A quality school environment provides
a setting that encourages students to learn
and grow. School facilities and after-school
activities can provide chances for students to
interact with schoolmates in clubs or sports. A
curriculum should offer a wide range of courses
that stimulate students’ intellectual growth.
Counselors can help students choose courses that
meet career needs.