What Kids Can't Do

We did our exercise What Kids Can't Do, which is based on the John Holt book Escape from Childhood. We asked the crew to list all the things they cannot do, because they are young. We got a great list that included vote, gamble, drive, go on vacation alone, buy certain video games and have sex. We picked a few of the hot topics and engage the group in a debate, demanding that they literally take a position on the issue by standing on one side of the room or other.

They wanted to deal with "intercourse" first - their word, not ours. Most felt that the prohibition was fair, even those in favour agreeing that it's actually a responsibility. And a big responsibility. Many admitted that they were not ready for this complex responsibility and seemed very at ease with this fact. It was a sophisticated discussion and did not involve any of the nervous squeamishness that often attends this discussion. I was left feeling that many of these young dudes are good men, even at age 11.
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