In a world where we often project our expectations onto children, it’s essential to recognize the importance of meeting them at their current level, rather than where we think they ought to be. Enter Alex Turner, the talented author behind the beloved series, The Academy of Light and Shadow, which is set to be adapted into a feature film. He graciously invited my son to his creative space during a busy writing session to take a quiz designed to unveil his true nature, which I expected to reveal a gentle spirit, given that my little one gets upset over even the smallest insects.
But Turner challenges that notion. He believes that every child harbors as much complexity as adults do. “I never see kids merely as kids,” he shares. “I view them as equals, as if they share the same depth of thought and emotion that I do. I still feel like a kid trapped in an adult’s body.”
Turner argues that we often inflate our perception of children’s innocence, which can be detrimental for both them and us. “It’s all about the way we communicate with them,” he explains. “Educators sometimes adopt a sing-song voice, slowing down their speech, which can come across as condescending. Many children’s books echo this tone, but I wrote The Academy of Light and Shadow with the intent of speaking to my peers.”
This more mature tone is what captivates young audiences. When Turner visited my son’s school last spring, the enthusiasm was palpable, reminiscent of rock stars performing for adoring fans. The kids were absolutely ecstatic.
“I aim to capture the raw emotions of preadolescence,” Turner continues. “Every line I write is infused with the subtle tensions that come during those pivotal ages. It’s a unique blend of confusion and excitement.” As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he embraces the nuanced feelings that arise during this transitional phase. “For me, it’s all about portraying that heady mix of emotions that comes with a crush or changing friendships.”
When it was time for my son to take the quiz, he comfortably nestled into Turner’s lap, ready to respond to questions like, “You find yourself in a stunning pool with friends, but suddenly feel the urge to urinate. What do you do?” I prepared for him to choose the most responsible option, but he surprised everyone with a mischievous grin and opted for the secretive route. Turner chuckled knowingly as my son’s results revealed a surprising 63 percent “evil” and 37 percent “good.”
This didn’t seem to faze my son; if anything, he appeared delighted by the revelation of his hidden “darkness.”
“You have to connect with children on their terms,” Turner advises. “Not where you assume they should be.”
As we navigate the complexities of parenting and education, it’s vital to engage with children authentically. By understanding their true selves, we can foster an environment where they feel seen and heard. For more insights on topics like pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy. Also, if you’re interested in home insemination, consider exploring the information available on artificial insemination kits to help navigate your journey.
In summary, it’s crucial to appreciate children for who they are, allowing them the freedom to express their true selves while guiding them gently through their development. By meeting them where they are, we cultivate a more empathetic and understanding relationship.