“Culture shapes childhood by how it develops an understanding of what it means to be a child, and how it interprets that child’s standing in a community.

In America, a child doesn’t reach adulthood until 18 years of age, even though many families recognize maturing milestones, such as “Sweet 16.” Over this last generation, Americans have continued to celebrate milestones but have also shaped their relationship with their children to be more aware and inclusive of a child’s developmental needs.

The last 20 years saw an increase in new programs and teachings oriented toward even the youngest of children, including a growing understanding of a child’s neurological and emotional development, and how to encourage children to have a stronger sense of self as they cross the threshold into maturity.

Programs that start at infancy, like Gymboree for example, involve both parent and child from an early age — encouraging a child to experience the world, but also teaching parents how to help guide their children in play and exploration.

This pattern of engagement and mindfulness about the encompassing needs of a child move with a family as that child emerges into an adult. In fact, most middle-class American children are involved in at least one extra-curricular hobby or a summer camp or two. Most families enjoy hosting sleep overs, partaking in holidays together and other activities that nurture a child’s ability to build a bond with his or her environment.”

more at: https://clarionproject.org/culture-shapes-childhood/