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Understanding Children’s Development: Meeting Them at Their Level
In the realm of child development, it is essential to engage with children where they currently are, rather than imposing preconceived notions of where they should be. This principle is emphasized by Alex Morgan, an acclaimed author known for his bestselling series, The Adventures of Magic and Mischief, soon to be adapted for film.
During a recent interaction, I had the opportunity to observe Morgan as he kindly welcomed my son to his home for a unique quiz designed to assess the child’s inherent tendencies toward mischief. My initial assumption was that my son would score low on this scale, given his empathetic nature towards even the smallest creatures.
However, Morgan presents a different perspective. He believes that children possess a spectrum of behaviors and emotions akin to adults, including what some may label as “mischievousness.” “I don’t view children as simply children,” he shares. “I see them as individuals with complex thoughts, much like adults.” He acknowledges that he still identifies with his inner child, which informs his approach to storytelling.
Morgan argues that society often overestimates children’s innocence, which can hinder their development. “It’s all about the communication style,” he notes, pointing out how educators often adopt a sing-song voice when interacting with young audiences. This tone, while well-intentioned, may not resonate with them. He originally conceived The Adventures of Magic and Mischief as a novel for adults, only later reshaping it for younger readers. “When I write, I talk to my audience as if they are peers.”
This authentic communication style is what captivates children. During a recent school presentation, Morgan elicited an enthusiastic response from students, reminiscent of a rock concert. The energy in the auditorium was palpable.
Morgan also delves into the nuanced emotions of pre-adolescence, capturing the complexities of this developmental stage. He believes that every writer has a defining moment that shapes their work; for him, it was the seventh grade when he first experienced romantic feelings toward friends. “I aim to evoke that intense, confusing emotional state,” he explains, emphasizing the subtlety of those early feelings.
As my son took the quiz, I anticipated his choices. The questions were designed to assess his reactions in morally ambiguous situations. To my surprise, he chose a response that indicated a penchant for mischief, revealing a score that suggested he had a fair amount of “darkness” within him. This unexpected outcome delighted him and highlighted the importance of understanding children’s true nature.
Morgan summarizes this experience succinctly: “You must engage children where they are, not where you wish them to be.”
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In summary, engaging with children on their level fosters a more profound understanding of their emotional and developmental states. Recognizing their complexities allows for richer interactions and supports their growth.