Crime and Punishment23rdApril
If a kid does something "wrong", how do you fix it? Unfortunately, in our world, when you make a mistake you get punished. However, cutting off television often does nothing to rectify that they clocked their classmate on recess. The victim is upset about the punch, and the fact that their assailant can't watch SpongeBob for a week does nothing to ease their pain.
And if you're truly seeking recompense, then you have to tailor it to the capabilities of the individual that must make amends. They've already dug themselves into a hole, expecting them to come up with new skills on the way out distracts them from truly empathizing with the pain they've caused.
Our solutions need to be as unique as every child involved. Maybe the bully is now responsible to police all the bullying on the playground. It may not be ideal, but it's a learning process, and more relevant than exile to their room without dessert.
Next time we find the children in our stead in conflict or causing "trouble", let's look at it as an opportunity to have them bear more responsibility. Let's see it as a chance to teach them what it means to be an adult, what it means to care for your community, your family and the land.
