Children Learn What They Live was a poem on child-rearing written by Dorothy Law Nolte for the weekly family column for the Torrance Herald in 1954. I think all of us have an important role to play in the upbringing of children; it doesn’t has to be our own children, it can be any children who come into contact with us. What do we want them to learn from us?
Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement, he learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world.
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Hi BK – as you so rightly say – we are how we become as children .. ultimately be compassionate and thoughtful to all around us, and be passionate about the natural world too ..
Treat everyone with love .. cheers Hilary
@ Hilary, good to see you here again and a BIG thank you for pointing out that something was wrong with my comment. And I agree with you that we must be passionate about the natural world too.
I agree with you, that is why parents should provide the right kind of environment for their children for them to have the right attitude.
@ May, it is not only parents but any adults who have the chance to come into contact with children. We should always inculcate in them the right attitude.
This is a lovely poem. The lines sound great and meaningful. But I guess it depends on the situation and it depends on what child one is rearing. I wish that most people will realize this simple poem so there will be more kids who will learn how to appreciate what they have and behave very well.
@ Astrid, I certainly wish that more people will come to realize this simple poem too so that you would realize their influence on kids. The change must start from us – the adult.
I like the poem. It states the reality. I also agree with the comment above. I enjoy reading and it was really great.
@ Angelle, it is very true indeed; I have always believe that Children do not do things we ask them to do, they always observe what we do and follow us 🙂