Active learning ideas
This topic examines the idea that childhood is not a universal biological stage, but a 'social construction' that varies across time, place, and culture. Students compare the 'child-centred' nature of modern British society with historical periods where children were seen as 'miniature adults' (as argued by Philippe Ariès). They also explore the 'disappearance of childhood' thesis and the impact of technology and consumerism on young people today.
Activity 01
Display images of children from the Middle Ages, the Victorian era, and the modern day. Students move in pairs to identify clues about the child's status, such as their clothing, work/play activities, and relationship with adults.
Is childhood a social construction?
Activity 02
Divide the class to debate Neil Postman's view that the 'information hierarchy' has broken down. One side argues that the internet has 'ended' childhood innocence, while the other argues that childhood is simply changing, not disappearing.
Has the position of children in society improved?
Activity 03
Students list five ways their own lives are 'child-centred' (e.g., specific laws, toys, or parental attention). They share with a partner and discuss whether this 'child-centredness' is a positive development or a form of 'toxic childhood'.
Are we witnessing the 'disappearance of childhood'?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Childhood has always been a time of play and innocence.
Historical evidence shows that in the past, children often worked from a young age and were treated like adults. Using a 'timeline of laws' activity (e.g., factory acts, compulsory schooling) helps students see that our current view of childhood is a relatively recent invention.
All children in the UK experience the same 'childhood'.
Class, gender, and ethnicity create vast differences in childhood experience. A 'case study comparison' of a child in poverty versus a wealthy child helps students understand that 'childhood' is not a single, uniform experience even within one country.
Methods used in this brief
Changing Family Patterns
Analysing trends in marriage, divorce, cohabitation, and the increasing diversity of family structures.
8 methodologies
Gender Roles and Power in the Family
Investigating the domestic division of labour, decision-making, and the impact of feminism on family life.
8 methodologies
Demography and the Family
Exploring the impact of birth rates, death rates, and migration on family structures and society.
8 methodologies