Some people argue that parents are responsible for teaching a child how to become a good member of society, whereas others have a different opinion – that schools should do this instead. While it is true that young children are most likely to understand the social norms under their parents’ guidance, I believe it is at schools that kids learn these the best.
It is commonly believed that it is easier for the kids to understand the complex nature of society when parents provide full-time guidance at home. Because young children spend more time at home than at school, parents have more opportunities to thoroughly explain the otherwise complicated social standards, giving the children more time to internalize. Moreover, many of the children already showcase a sense of respect and admiration towards their parents. Thus, it can be easier for them to follow their parents’ instructions even before understanding all the concepts. Children develop good manners by imitating their parents at home, gradually having a greater understanding of the norms required to be good members of society as they grow older.
On the other hand, schools can provide children with real-life scenarios that parents cannot possibly explain. When children are encouraged to communicate independently, when meeting new classmates or teachers, for example, they are given a chance to apply the social skills rather than simply understand how the talking is done. This allows children to experiment and make mistakes if necessary, the best thing is that guidance is always provided whenever any mistake is made. Children acquire first-hand experience, and the social skills become more firmly established as children use them in real-life context. In addition, at schools, interacting with diverse peers helps children to become more understanding and flexible: a skill parental teaching cannot offer.
Therefore, although teaching children how to behave and become good members of society by parents at home has its own advantages, I firmly believe that institutions offer a greater opportunity to develop other social skills by creating a safe environment where children can freely make mistakes and learn accordingly.