So here's my beef. In talking to my good friend Kat earlier about the big marketing to-do around days like Valentine's Day, she told me that the teachers in her kid's elementary school instruct every child in their class to write a card to every other kid in the class. They don't want to leave anyone out because that it would be unkind.
The thing is, how do these kids know who likes them and who doesn't? What sort of lesson does this teach them? I think these kids might go through their lives unsure of who is sincere and who isn't. They may come to believe that people will always look the other way and still give them the shirt of their backs. Not a chance.
To receive a gift or a card out of obligation is really missing the spirit of giving. If your child doesn't like little Bobby Jones in his class because he leaves creepy crawlies in her lunchkit every chance he gets, I don't think he deserves a cute little Valentine's card with a cupid on it that says "will you be mine?". What is this going to accomplish?
On the flip side, every child should receive a card from the teacher at least, and earn the right to receive from the rest.
What is your take on this mess?
Yah!
ReplyDeleteAnd another thing...what exactly are we celebrating on Valentine's Day? And, assuming my 'assumption' of this (gosh) day is correct and that we are to let the person we love know it (only on this day???)...how can I promote this to my elementary aged children? Do they HAVE to have a crush? I was told not to be such a negative nelly and just give out chocolate hearts to everyone (and, yup, I get a few...immagine that!!! And not from my husband!!!!) So why can't I just give out chocolate hearts any time...because someone actually says Hi back or holds a door open for me? Can't I or my kids just be kind any ol' day? Is Feb. 14 just a day to remind the world to be kind and loving? Is that what it is? 'Cuz I thought it was only for lovers:)
I could go on...but I fear my lack of sleep would influence my mood;)
Ok so I did a little research on the origin of St, Valentine's Day. I will blog on this shortly but in the meantime, here's the link to some 'interesting' info.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.americancatholic.org/Messenger/Feb2003/Family.asp
But, have you ever thought that maybe elementary kids(Me included)DONT want people to know that they are crushing on someone? In my experience, the secret of who someone likes is VERY well kept(especially considering who it goes through;;D), and when it eventually gets out, the crush has expired or this person is now tagged with the humiliating and everlasting name "loverboy/girl". And the crushee gets laughed at aswell, even though his/her love for the crusher may not be enirely TRUE.For example,if I give Valentine's cards to everyone, I will be alot less suspicious then I would be if I would have given only one to my true love, and that is why it is common to give Valentine's cards to the entire class(In order to keep the secret). Then again, there is always a Plan B. Absorb the punishment that ensues your secret being let loose(Although I HIGHLY recommend the previous option ;;D).
ReplyDeleteEver thought about it like THAT???
um..if you gave chocolate hearts out all the time it might be a problem.. to the guy holding open the door for you...he'd have to stop doing that to receive the chocolate..and well where would you put them all? what about the melt factor?? :)
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