Children's Responsibilities

Though the adult's in "They Poured Fire on us From the Sky" seem to be much kinder towards children than the adults in "The Road of Lost Innocence", being a child in the village of Juol seems very difficult. The boys in the story are very young, seemingly ages 4 to 6, and yet they are caring for livestock out in a dangerous environment filled with lions, hyenas, and large snakes. They are also expected to be very mature and respectful. At age 6, they have their teeth removed, and sometime during early childhood they are circumcised. Though treated with love and compassion, they are also taught responsibility, respect, and discipline at a very young age.

Compare this with our society where often times children are expected to do very little and are excused for bad behavior because of their age. According to leading psychologists, the previous of the two methods of child care is better for the child's growth. Children can be taught to help out around the house, clean up and look after themselves, and be polite and respectful by age four. When given the opportunity, children prefer this and it helps them to grow into independent and healthy members of society.

I'm not saying that children should have their teeth knocked out or tend to goats in the jungle, but they can certainly be held to higher expectations than many Americans hold them to.

http://www.theparentlink.ca/articles/?s=100&a=174