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Modern childhood ends at 12
Children today are under pressure to grow too fast. In fact, childhood is over for most children by the age of 12, says Netmums, the UK’s biggest parenting website. Siobhan Freegard, cofounder of Netmums, said a “toxic combination of marketing, media and peer pressure” is to blame for “snatching away the precious years of childhood.” Comments posted to the website by parents said that young girls are made to worry about their weight and appearance, and young boys are encouraged to adopt macho behaviour. “Children need time to grow and emotionally mature in order to cope with what life throws at them,” cautioned Freegard.
Thumbs down on tug-of-war
Two students from South El Monte High School, in Los Angeles, lost several fingers during a game of tug-of-war. The boy and girl were rushed to hospital, where they underwent emergency surgery. “We’ll review the activity with the district administration,” said school official Edward Zuniga. “We’re in the early stages. We just want to make sure we have all the facts straight before we talk about changing activities.” The incident took place February 5, during lunchtime activities celebrating homecoming. School and hospital authorities did not disclose how many fingers were lost.
It’s never too late to graduate
Fred Butler dropped out of school in Grade 8 to work full-time to support his mother and five younger siblings. His daughter-in-law, Cathy Butler, said Fred regretted leaving school and had always emphasized to his children and grandchildren the importance of receiving an education. With that in mind, Cathy spearheaded an effort to get her father-in-law his high school diploma
On March 5, the 106-year-old resident of Beverly, Massachusetts, received an honorary high school diploma. Beverly Mayor Bill Scanlon, who attended the event, dismissed Butler’s view that he hadn’t earned the diploma. “It’s a long time to wait for your diploma, but you’ve obviously earned it very well,” Scanlon said.
