Which do you think is more challenging for teens and tweens: memorizing math equations or successfully navigating the waters of girl friendship and peer pressure?
New York Times columnist David Brooks takes issue with author Amy Chua (Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mom) who denies her kids the “coddling” of playdates in favor or strict emphasis on studying and piano practice. Quite the opposite is true, says Brooks in his column “Amy Chua is a Wimp”. He writes:
“Managing status rivalries, negotiating group dynamics, understanding social norms, navigating the distinction between self and group — these and other social tests impose cognitive demands that blow away any intense tutoring session or a class at Yale.”
Chua’s book has raised emotions in everyone who has read it. What is a parent’s role? On which aspects of development can a parent have most effect and which are most useful and important to try to influence? Do you think the child’s discipline, body of knowledge, and regard for authority reign supreme? Or is it equally or more important to shepherd children’s social development and facility at functioning within a peer group?
We know you are having this conversation in your home and with your friends and neighbors… please share your thoughts and reactions with us!
If you like, you can read more about Brooks’ view here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/18/opinion/18brooks.html?_r=1&ref=davidbrooks
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