The typical phrase 'work hard, play hard' has little relevance in Chinese society, especially in the school systems. The mentality thrust upon the young children in the Chinese school systems, that is carried through all of their schooling and into adult lives, is that of 'work, work, work... and be perfect.' This unrealistic and creativity stifling viewpoint has lead to statistics like: 84% of high school students feeling depression, and over half of all elementary schoolers expressing discomfort and academic pressure from their parents. There seems to be a light forming at the end of the tunnel, however, as more and more parents begin to turn their backs on this viewpoint. The new trend these parents are embracing? Creativity. It seems so logical to those of us that have been raised in America, with play times and recess and freedom in exploring different activities that fit our personal gifts. In China the idea of creativity is revolutionary. I am thrilled to see a country so crucial to the global economy start to embrace a centuries-old idea.
This article is titled "Gingerly, Chinese Parents Embrace the Idea of Fun"
The link: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/26/world/asia/26iht-letter26.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&ref=world
I recently started playing words with friends, play with me! Username: katiecoast
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