2025-04-09T21:27:01Z

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In a recent reflection on cultural differences, the author explores the contrasting attitudes towards children in Argentina compared to the United States. This narrative unfolds in a lively setting, specifically at a mall food court in Salta, Argentina, where the author reconnects with friends after a month-long trip to the US.

As the group enjoyed their coffee, a lively scene played out beside them. A group of four boys, aged between 10 and 11 years old, engaged in an exuberant display of roughhousing. They wrestled and shouted, clearly engrossed in their energetic antics, which included pretending to punch each other and running around, their faces flushed with excitement as they rolled on the floor.

Surprisingly, the other mall-goers seemed unfazed by the boys' rough play. Shoppers maneuvered around the playful scene without so much as a glance, suggesting that such displays of childhood exuberance are considered perfectly acceptable in this social context.

The author couldnt help but contrast this scene with what one might expect in the United States, remarking, This would never fly in the US. This statement elicited surprise from friends who were present, highlighting a distinct cultural divide regarding how children's behavior is perceived.

In the United States, the reactions to children playing in public spaces often veer towards disapproval. Conversations with other US parents revealed a common concern about the appropriateness of such behavior. One parent expressed indignation, stating, Because its not your living room, while another remarked that only negligent parents would allow their children to behave in such a boisterous manner. The stark contrast reveals a cultural norm in the US that prioritizes order and restraint over free expression.

One possible reason for this difference may lie in the Argentine perspective on children as integral members of society. In Argentina, children frequently participate in family gatherings and social occasions, from Sunday dinners to weddings and graduations. This integration fosters a more relaxed attitude towards child behavior; adults in Argentina often view children as essential to the social fabric rather than as disturbances.

The author reflects on their own son, ten-year-old Charlie, noting how his comfort level around younger children is markedly higher than their own at that age. This comfort is attributed to frequent interactions with babies and toddlers, which are commonplace in Argentine family life. The author recalls dining experiences in Argentina where children would engage in playful games around tables, adding a lively atmosphere to restaurant outings.

Contrasting this with experiences in New York City, the author remembers dining out with their toddler daughter, Lila. In NYC, adults often appeared annoyed at children, as illustrated by a particularly upsetting incident where a stranger reacted harshly when Lila innocently reached for her bag. Such experiences can create a fearful environment for both parents and children, where the natural curiosity of children is met with reprimands rather than understanding.

The author articulates a desire to raise children who are confident and capable of expressing themselves. They emphasize the importance of guiding children to understand social boundaries without instilling fear of adult authority. I believe that patience is the path to building a kinder society and raising decent, compassionate human beings, the author states, reinforcing the belief that children deserve patience and understanding as they navigate their developmental journey.

Ultimately, this reflection not only sheds light on the cultural differences in raising children in Argentina and the US but also encourages a discussion about the nature of childhood and societal expectations. The author advocates for a more compassionate approach towards children's behavior, suggesting that understanding and patience can lead to a more inclusive and empathetic society.