Evolution of Children from 1900 till Now

 

Introduction

The evolution of children from 1900 till now has been a gradual process that has seen significant changes in their upbringing, education, and overall well-being. The way children have been raised and educated has undergone a significant transformation over the last century.

Early 1900s: Children as Miniature Adults

In the early 1900s, children were often seen as miniature adults and were expected to act and behave accordingly. They were expected to work alongside their parents, whether it was on the farm or in a factory. Education was not a priority, and many children did not attend school past the age of 12. The focus was on survival, and children were expected to contribute to the family's income as soon as they were able.

First Half of 20th Century: Nurturing and Protecting Children

During the first half of the 20th century, children began to be viewed more as individuals who needed to be nurtured and protected. The introduction of child labor laws and compulsory education laws ensured that children were no longer forced to work and could attend school until at least the age of 14. This led to a shift in the way children were raised, with more emphasis on providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

Second Half of 20th Century: The Importance of Education

The second half of the 20th century saw further changes in the way children were raised and educated. With the rise of the middle class, there was a growing focus on providing children with the best possible education, including the opportunity to attend college. This led to the expansion of the education system and the introduction of new subjects such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The 1960s and 1970s: Changing Parenting Styles

The 1960s and 1970s brought about a change in parenting styles, with a move away from strict, authoritarian parenting to more permissive and nurturing parenting. This led to a greater emphasis on children's emotional well-being and the importance of providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

The 1980s and 1990s: Focus on Physical Well-being

The 1980s and 1990s saw a growing focus on children's physical well-being, with an emphasis on healthy eating and regular exercise. With the rise of technology, children were also exposed to new forms of entertainment such as video games and the internet.

21st Century: Emphasis on Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

The 21st century has seen a continued emphasis on children's well-being, with a growing focus on their mental health and emotional well-being. With the rise of social media and the internet, children are exposed to a wider range of information and experiences than ever before. This has led to a greater emphasis on providing children with the tools and skills they need to navigate the digital world.

The evolution of children from 1900 till now has also been accompanied by changes in the way families are structured. The nuclear family, consisting of a mother, father, and children, is no longer the norm, with an increasing number of single-parent families and blended families. This has led to a greater emphasis on providing children with a stable and supportive environment, regardless of their family structure.

Conclusion

The evolution of children from 1900 till now has seen significant changes in the way they are raised, educated, and cared for. From being seen as miniature adults and expected to work and contribute to the family income, to being viewed as individuals who need to be nurtured and protected. The focus has shifted from survival to providing children with the best possible education, emotional and physical well-being, and the tools they need to navigate the digital world. The structure of families has also changed, and there is now a greater emphasis on providing children with a stable and supportive environment, regardless of their family structure.