Discovering the Unusual – 20 Surprising Things About Parenting in Germany
Germany is a country with a strong identity, rooted in a rich cultural heritage and marked by a unique social and political history. As a result, parenting in Germany is a blend of tradition and modernity, creating a fascinating kaleidoscope of norms, values, and practices that might surprise you. In this article, we take a closer look at 20 unusual things about parenting in Germany.
1. School Attendance is Mandatory from Age Six
In Germany, school attendance is compulsory from the age of six, and parents can be fined if they fail to send their children to school without a valid reason. Homeschooling is not allowed, and parents who wish to teach their children at home must provide a convincing argument to the authorities.
2. No Standardized Testing Until High School
In primary and middle school, there are no standardized tests in Germany. Instead, teachers evaluate students’ progress based on their in-class performance, assignments, and oral exams. The first formal exams take place in high school.
3. Bread is a Staple Food
Germans love bread and eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have a wide variety of bread types, and it’s not uncommon to find a bakery on every street corner.
4. Kindergartens are Not Free
While public education is free in Germany, kindergartens are not. Parents have to pay a fee to send their child to kindergarten, but the amount varies depending on their income.
5. No Bullying Allowed
Bullying is not tolerated in German schools. Teachers and school officials take bullying seriously and have strict measures in place to prevent and address it.
6. Gender-Neutral Language is Preferred
In Germany, gender-neutral language is becoming increasingly popular, with people using inclusive language rather than traditional binary pronouns like he and she.
7. Children Are Not Expected to Help with Household Chores
Unlike some cultures where children are expected to help with household chores from an early age, German parents do not place such emphasis on domestic tasks.
8. Limited Television Viewing
German parents tend to limit their children’s exposure to television, preferring instead to encourage outdoor activities, socializing, and playing sports.
9. Wearing Helmets for Bike Riding is Mandatory
Wearing a helmet while riding a bike is mandatory for children in Germany. Parents who fail to comply may face a fine.
10. Stricter Privacy Laws
Germany has stricter privacy laws to protect children’s online data and restrict their access to social media and other online platforms.
11. Fewer Plastic Toys
German parents tend to avoid plastic toys and opt for wooden and natural materials instead, to promote eco-friendliness and sustainability.
12. Play Dates are Formal
Play dates in Germany are a formal affair that involves setting time, date, and venue in advance. They are not informal spontaneous get-togethers.
13. Teaching Children to Ride Bicycles is a Priority
German parents take the task of teaching their children to ride a bicycle very seriously and ensure that it is one of the first life skills children master.
14. Minimalist Clothing
Germans prefer minimalist clothing styles for their children, with a limited color palette and simple designs.
15. Daycare is Not Common
Daycare is not commonly used in Germany, with parents preferring to take care of their children themselves or with the help of family members.
16. Egalitarian Parenting
Gender roles are less strict, and parenting responsibilities are shared equally between mothers and fathers.
17. Children Learn to Knit and Sew at School
Knitting and sewing are part of the school curriculum in Germany, and children learn these skills from an early age.
18. No Hanging Flags at Home
Germans do not hang the national flag at home, or on clothing, as it is considered inappropriate.
19. No Clothing Labels
Clothing labels are not allowed in kindergarten, as they can create social hierarchies and lead to bullying.
20. Teutonic Safety
Safety is a top priority in German parenting, with rules and regulations in place to ensure child safety, whether it is in the car, on the bike, or when crossing the street.
In conclusion, parenting in Germany is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, creating a fascinating kaleidoscope of norms, values, and practices that might surprise you. From mandatory school attendance to limited television viewing and gender-neutral language, Germany offers an unusual and inspiring parenting culture that promotes societal development and encourages healthy development of happy, healthy children.
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