One of our readers asked if we would comment on Michael Jackson. So here goes….
Since Michael’s tragic and unexpected death, there is so much speculation about his life. One can’t help but wonder if he would have had more peace and contentment had he been allowed more free time and play as a child. He so quickly became the “property” of the public and golden boy of his family at such an incredibly young age.
Please never underestimate the importance of free play and expression in a child’s development. It is an essential step toward discovering the world and who they are. Michael, sadly, seemed to have missed this step.
We’ll end with a lyric from his song HAVE YOU SEEN MY CHILDHOOD:
“It’s been my fate to compensate for the childhood I’ve never known.”
- Jackie & Jo-Jo
[...] Have You Seen My Childhood? « Dear Daycare Parent By Jackie & Jo-Jo Please never underestimate the importance of free play and expression in a child’s development. It is an essential step toward discovering the world and who they are. Michael, sadly, seemed to have missed this step. … Dear Daycare Parent – http://deardaycareparent.com/ [...]
I totally agree with your comments about Michael Jackson never having a childhood and the negative effect it had on him. Kids need to be kids- play, use their imagination, try new things and be themselves. An overscheduled child is a stressed out child. Let them have free time. I did as a child and I think I’m a better person for it. My two kids were involved in activities when they were younger and still do as teenagers but still had/have time to just hang out. Let them be kids for as long as they can- adult responsibilities come soon enough!