Judgement Day

Judging others. It can be hard not to. Particularly when they hold views which are very different to our own. It can also be hard not to apply judgement to children, and the way they interact with the world. I’ve written before about trying to see things from a child’s perspective. And it’s just as important to hear them when they communicate with us.

The days of children being ‘seen and not heard’ are past. Consigned to the history pages where they belong. Instead, we should be working to encourage a generation which is not afraid to speak among others. To question the status quo. To teach others to see things differently. And, most importantly, to say when they think something is wrong.

Imagine if Greta Thunberg had not felt empowered to speak out about climate change. And what of Malala, who vocalised her belief in equal education rights for girls, and in doing so, stood up to the Taliban. Two very different examples of young people who were children when they first spoke out for what they believed in. The common thread which binds them is that they have no fear of speaking out when others disagree. Not for them the ‘seen but not heard’ mantra. And the world is, arguably, a better place for having children like them. Not forgetting the adults in their lives who given them the confidence and support to raise their voices for what they believe in.

Having spent time outside with our son over the summer, it has been wonderful to watch his development. He sees things differently, and reminds me of the importance of being curious and open minded about the environment around us. Our conversations tend to focus on things we see in nature. We walked through a forest last week, and I saw leaves on the ground. He saw hearts scattered along our way. We sat in a field to look at the sky and spot shapes above us. A gap between clouds was not just a shape, it was a door. Our explorations are a world away from climate change or education opportunities. But he is already learning that conversations are between two equals. He has as much right to speak as I do. And he’s teaching me things all the time.

In place of judging others for what they say, or for the children who dare to speak in adult company, it’s time to start listening. And alongside listening, we need to remain open-minded, and hear what is said. Those who are young are often wiser than we realise.