American children's sense of autonomy and self-reliance isn't cultivated overnight—it's deeply tied to how American parents practice letting go.Even when it's freezing cold, kids still run around in shorts trailing behind adults. Parents rarely carry children who can walk, and if a toddler falls, they just watch them get back up. It's common to see Americans traveling with babies just months old—or even newborns—some carried in baskets being lugged around everywhere. Children a few years old pull their own little suitcases, and parents never lift a finger to help.
During America's traditional ghost festival, we're truly amazed by the creativity of American children. Younger kids often dress up as various animals or little angels, wiggling tiny tails, flapping little wings, and carrying jack-o'-lanterns as they wander the streets. Some dress as skeletons, but no matter what, they can't escape looking like adorable "little ghosts."As for the older middle school-aged kids, they transform into all manner of eerie specters: giant ghosts, tiny ghosts, ancient ghosts, youthful ghosts, male ghosts, female ghosts, Eastern ghosts, Western ghosts, gentle ghosts, violent ghosts... countless terrifying specters beyond our imagination come to life. The more distinctive "ghosts" happily strike poses for photos with everyone.Their labor and creativity earn recognition, leaving the children deeply satisfied. Their ingenuity transforms this night of chaotic, eerie revelry into something positive and joyful, where festive cheer becomes the dominant mood. On such a major holiday, adults are nowhere to be seen—they let the children "run wild," allowing their creativity to flourish.
American children's independence is cultivated step by step, the tour guide explained. Starting in elementary school, teachers continuously reinforce children's sense of autonomy, repeatedly instilling the idea that children should make their own decisions about their own affairs.Hobbies and talents are developed according to personal interests, with parents offering only guiding suggestions. Children with athletic or musical aptitudes pursue their strengths, while interests in animals or plants are respected. Talented children are given ample space to flourish, and parents do not demand so-called "well-rounded" development.Teachers and parents spare no effort in affirming children's creativity. The recognition of children's multiple intelligences unfolds naturally, without any forced acceleration from educators or guardians.