It Takes a Village

The stories are told that children years ago had to obey any adult whether or not their parents were around. That child could dearly not complain to their parents or else they would have gotten a “whooping” for the behaviour and another for making a complaint. In recent times we tend to have an “I can do it all by myself” mentality and that has never worked in the history of growing a child, especially in the way he should go. A child should be a part of at least a family, a religious organization or a school which are the first three modes of socialization for them. This simply means they not only learn from the family but from people who are a part of the other institutions. This is why no matter what people think it will always take a village to raise a child. Let us discuss five ways we can help to reignite this village.

Reconstruct our values – When we speak about values we are speaking about the beliefs and morals that guide our thoughts, attitudes and behaviour. As a people, we need to revisit our past as a way of reconstructing our values. People need to not only know of a value but practice it as a part of their everyday lives.

Reinforce the values – The values between home, school and church should intersect. When something is taught and practised repeatedly it becomes a habit. Children will learn to master these values resulting in better attitudes and behaviours. “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he gets old he will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6

Reflect on the village – the village refers to those individuals who are a part of the wider community in which your child grows. What life lessons are children learning when they enter different environments? Do these interactions reflect the values we enforce at home? These are some questions we can ask when we reflect.

Reconstruct the village - A part of the problem is the people within the village that raises the child. Making adjustments to the village can redirect the village's original purpose, making it more functional. The village that needs adjustment includes people and all other variables that help to grow children.

Chart the Future – When raising children, we must think about the future. What path are you paving for your children to follow when you are gone? What path are you paving for the children whom you come in contact with? If the child grows up in an environment that helps them to be their best self, then they won’t have to worry about the future.

It would be a joy to witness the wonders of the village as it once was. Teaching children the importance of being polite, responsible, having integrity and sharing love and respect are all a part of a functioning village. No matter where in the world you go always remember that it takes a village.

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