There is no doubt that people like David Beckham and Leonardo DiCaprio began building their careers at an early age. But when it comes to vocational development, parents should take a supportive yet hands-off approach.
Many unnecessary parental pressures are placed on children to succeed in today's world. This is based on the fear that adolescents lacking in the talent department will not reach their highest level of achievement and will ultimately fail.
I was recently looking over a recreation activity guide for the Spokane area and was shocked at what I saw. There were normal classes such as self-protection, public speaking, painting and so on. My concern began, though, when I saw the sports programs.
There were classes offered to children as young as 18 months old so they could get a head start on their soccer careers. However, babies should master walking before attempting to chase a ball half their size around a field.
It seems this pressure is becoming a common occurrence, not only in the United States, but around the world. A prime example of this was witnessed in the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Much controversy surrounded the women's gymnastics team representing China. Many of these young athletes were dodging accusations from various news sources, spectators and angry coaches for being underage.
Even before the games began, the athletes sparked the interest of human rights organizations. Many people wanted to take an in-depth look at Chinese gymnastics training. In fact, National Public Radio examined a particular Chinese boarding school. At this facility, gymnasts as young as 4 years old begin their journey to the gold.
In any case, athletes do get to work toward a dream of fame and glory. In the United States, athletes who excel in their sport become household names with hefty paychecks. While in China, gymnasts are endorsed and financially supported so they can focus on training, and they receive a salary for every gold medal won.
Beyond the sports world, the entertainment field has its own set of pressures. On the TLC show Toddlers and Tiaras," young girls and boys compete in pageants for their shot at winning a crown. Meanwhile, parents who live vicariously through their children stand by to support the pageant competitors.
Since the premiere of the program, viewers have been in an uproar over the exploitation of little girls who look like toddler-sized Barbies. If this thievery of childhood is not bad enough, the consequences of pressure on youth can be devastating later in life.
Child actors perfectly illustrate the negative effects of fame. For instance, Drew Barrymore began her acting career with an early breakout role in the movie E.T.: the Extra-Terrestrial. Rapid stardom eventually led Barrymore down a road of drugs and alcohol, resulting in multiple rehab visits during her teenage years.
It is understandable that parents want their children to make a mark in the world, but children should not have to pay the price for their parents' unfulfilled dreams. Of course, the monetary factor may benefit children in the long run. But the pressures of stardom and success will overshadow healthy childhood experiences.
In reality, most 18-month-olds will not grow up to be professional athletes or movie stars. Children should be allowed to develop and pursue their own dreams without having activities forced on them.
