For the first two decades of our lives, most of us spend the majority of our time in school getting educated. Some people continue their education further for advanced college degrees, which are required for specialized professions. While others join the workforce right out of high school. Many children don’t understand the importance of school, which can make them adverse to attending. But school is a crucial component of a healthy childhood.
Why Do We Need School?
I have four children, and every morning, we go through the same hassle. I have to fight everyone to get up and get dressed and out the door in time for school. At least once a week, someone is asking, “But why do we have to go to school? I’m not going to use any of this crap when I grow up.”
No one warned me that part of parenting means sounding like a broken record. Some mornings, I have the patience to explain to them that there are plenty of reasons why school is good for them. On other days, my nerves are gone, and I respond glibly. “You’re right. It’s a conspiracy worked up by parents, so we don’t have to put up with you all day.”
While I imagine every parent is grateful for the break, school is designed for the benefit of our children’s future. It teaches them crucial skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. Now, some people may decide to home-school their children while other parents may prefer a private education over a public one. There is no right or wrong answer.
What is School?
School is considered to be an educational institution that delivers age-appropriate knowledge to a group of peers, under the guidance of adults who have received educational degrees in their field of study. Depending on your location, you might have a primary and a secondary school. But for the majority of us, there is an elementary, middle, and high school.
Elementary typically caters to the younger students from pre-kindergarten (not all schools have this program), and kindergarten through fourth, fifth, or sixth grade. The middle school caters to the middle-aged children, usually around 10-15 years of age and grades 5 or 6 through 8th. In some communities, there might only be one school for grades K-8.
High school is meant to prepare your children for their futures. Here, they finish out their primary education and gain life skills which can help them start on the job path, or to continue their education in college. This school attends grades 9 – 12 – affectionately known as freshmen (9th), sophomore (10th), junior (11th), and senior (12th), and ages 14-18.
In every state, attendance to an accredited school is required for all minors (individuals under the age of 18). However, there might be times when parents allow a child to withdraw permanently after the age of sixteen. Once students have completed at least twelve years of school (grades 1-12), they graduate with a diploma. In today’s society, getting an excellent job without a high school diploma is next to impossible.
School – What is It Good For?
All children want to know why they have to go to school. But can you blame them? It can be mind-numbing to have to sit still for hours on end while you’re getting a ton of knowledge shoved down your throat. Have you ever been stuck in a boardroom or courtroom all day, unable to talk or get up and move around? Doesn’t it make you miserable?
Children have an abundance of energy and trying to keep them restricted to their desks can be a hassle. Thankfully, many schools have programs like physical education, sports, Band, and computer lab to break up the monotony of repeated exposure to academic learning.
Many kids don’t get the proper amount of exercise and food at home, so having programs that offer children the chance to work out and eat a healthy meal are vital. School provides multiple benefits for kids other than just expanding their knowledge.
What Does School Teach?
From the first day of school, children begin to learn. Some kids will start school already knowing some things like how to spell or write their name or their colors and shapes. My oldest son couldn’t even spell his name when he started school. My youngest daughter was writing hers by the time she was three, so kindergarten was a cakewalk for her.
During the school day, students receive lessons on a variety of subjects, tailored to their age and intelligence. Sometimes, the children will switch teachers and rooms based on the class, while at other times, the same teacher will handle every subject. Younger children also usually get recess, which is a period of free time to work off their pent-up energy.
Topics that students learn every day include:
- Math
- Science
- English
- Social studies
- History
- Reading
- Specials (P.E., music, art, computer, library)
By breaking these classes into subjects, students have the chance to be focused solely on the topic, without the distraction of trying to understand two different things at once. Throughout the school career, these classes will become harder and cover new materials. There might even be alternatives, such as Biology instead of Science or Geography instead of Social Studies.
The Importance of School
If you want to have a successful life, you have to get a proper education. Without school, you will be less qualified than other candidates and might end up missing out on excellent opportunities. If you cannot read or write, you are going to be severely impaired throughout life. School teaches these skills and more. Here are some other ways that school is valuable.
School Provides Knowledge
Schools were designed to ensure that attendees have access to a reliable source of knowledge. While attending classes in school, children receive hands-on instructions on a variety of topics, meant to increase their understanding of the world, past, present, and future.
Many kids don’t understand why they have to learn about history. What does it matter what happened hundreds of years ago? Children need to know where they came from, to understand what events led up to where we are today. When you know the sacrifices that were made, you’re more appreciative of what you have.
From the first day of school, your children are learning—colors, the alphabet, how to write, how to read, and basic math. As kids move up in grades, the curriculum gets harder, and more topics are covered. Children start to learn algebra, science, history, literature, and grammar. I’m capable of writing this article because of my education, just as you’re able to read it from yours.
Expands Horizons
For the majority of us, the only exotic lands we’ll see are in books, or photos and articles we browse on the internet. The world is full of exciting things to see and do. Attending school can help children learn about these places. It teaches them about the different ways of life throughout the world.
When children get to experience different lifestyles than their own, they are expanding their horizons. They learn to be sensitive to the cultural differences of those around them. Or they might become inspired to see the world around them. To find a way to make a difference somewhere.
It’s easy to be closed off to our differences when you don’t have exposure to different things. In small communities, there might not be multiple cultures or various lifestyles. Schools help children learn about the world outside of their environment.
Introduces New Cultures
Schools allow children to discover fascinating information about far-away lands. They’re introduced to different cultures and histories. They learn how our country works with others. And how America, the land of the free, offers opportunities to people from other nations.
Many students find that they want to explore new places after learning about them in school. Maybe they decide to enroll in foreign exchange programs during their school years, or they take a trip through outreach programs like a church or volunteer groups. I have one friend who’s traveled all over the world, teaching people how to speak English – without having to go to school first.
Schools open a world of possibilities for students to explore. Some organizations offer foreign language classes, especially in high school. However, many schools are starting alternate languages earlier, now that it’s been proven that learning to speak a second language is more natural as a child.
Helps Kids Socialize
Socialization is a crucial life skill that every person needs to have in their arsenal. Unfortunately, not everyone is good at communicating with others. There could be a variety of reasons for this. Some kids don’t have siblings, which means they don’t have the opportunity to socialize with other children.
Other kids might have socialization problems like shyness, insecurity, or awkwardness. They could struggle with knowing how to meet new people and start conversations. Schools allow children the opportunity to interact with each other in a safe environment.
During school hours, children get to enjoy a variety of subjects, where they can end up meeting other kids their age with similar interests. Some friendships that start in school can last a lifetime. I still keep in regular contact with numerous friends I made back in kindergarten. Having friends in school helps the time pass faster. It also gives children a healthy support system.
Teaches Teamwork
School provides multiple ways for children to interact with each other. In the classroom, many teachers divide students up into groups so the students can work together and help each other out. This is a great method for when there are children who grasp concepts quicker than others.
There are plenty of activities that children can participate in, which allows them to work with their peers. They can join a sport like football or volleyball where they’ll learn to be part of a team. Or if they’re musically inclined, they could sign up for Band or chorus.
When kids participate in teamwork, they learn how to consider the needs and opinions of others. They learn to be less selfish. And often, they think of others before themselves. Many students become positive role models for their peers through their dedication to their teams.
Provides Social Experiences
Schools encourage students to get along with each other. Times have changed, and bullying is no longer tolerated. Thankfully, many children are being raised to be more sensitive to the feelings of others. To provide kids with opportunities to interact with their peers, many schools host school functions like dances and football games.
For most teenagers, the thing they look forward to the most is graduation and prom. Who doesn’t remember planning for their big night? The dress, the tux, the flowers, the limo, the dance. Prom King and Queen. It’s a rite of passage for youth to celebrate their last school function with their friends before everyone goes their separate ways. It’s usually the last time you’ll party with many of your friends.
Friday night football games are a tradition in my household. Even before my kids got into high school, we would be in the stands, cheering on our home team. Even if children don’t participate as part of the sport, they often still attend the games to hang out with their friends, usually without parental guidance. They’re testing the waters before adulthood.
Many schools also like to pair kids off together or split into groups in the classroom. Children learn how to work as part of a team dynamic. And how to be considerate of their peers’ feelings and thoughts. In a group setting, children must work together if they want to receive a passing grade. My oldest son received a 42 F on his report card for the first nine weeks just because he and his partner didn’t turn in their group project.
Builds Confidence
Many children struggle with self-esteem issues. Being in school allows them to feel more confident about themselves. When they’re making good grades, they get awarded AB honor roll or Straight A’s, both of which are excellent achievements. Getting the winning touchdown at the Homecoming football game while you’re a freshman on a varsity team will make you a legend for the next four years.
When children get to participate in activities that they are good at, it can help them feel better about themselves. For many children, they need these boosts of confidence to help them stay positive when facing difficult situations. When you have high self-esteem, you’re less likely to suffer from poor mental health.
Depression is a dangerous condition, and it can lead to many problems for young children if left unaddressed. When children have an activity or talent to participate in that makes them feel good about themselves, they have a healthy outlet for their emotions. They find more reasons to be happy about themselves.
Discover Talents
Schools don’t just help children learn new information. It also helps them discover their potential. I learned about my talent of writing in the first grade, when I was just six years old. From that point on, I never wanted to do anything else with my life. Now, here I am, living out my dream, making a career of working in my pj’s while sitting on my couch.
Classes like computer lab, music, and physical education allow kids to explore their interests while learning. They may discover they have a hidden ability they never knew. Something that makes them feel a purpose. When kids find an interest that motivates them, they are more eager to participate in school.
Getting involved in school activities often reduces the chances of children getting into trouble. They have less free time to fill. Hobbies give kids hope for the future. They have dreams to work towards, like playing professional sports or starting a business. Schools help children develop their skills as they get older, so they’re prepared to achieve their goals.
Establishes Smart Habits
When you start children off on the right path early in life, they’re better equipped to deal with the challenges they’ll face. Schools help children develop healthy habits that they will continue to use in all areas of their lives.
Kids have to turn in assignments on time, which teaches them how to meet deadlines. They have to keep up with their work, teaching organizational skills. They learn to follow the rules. This is considered discipline. Children who stay out of trouble in school usually abide by the laws outside of school.
When they disagree with a classmate, they have to use conflict resolution. They talk about the problem instead of resolving it with violence. If they don’t study, they fail the test. This helps them figure out that they have to put in the effort if they want to get rewarded.
Schools also help kids learn about schedules and routines. They have to figure out how to balance the different aspects of their lives. Having to keep up with the property that belongs to the school, such as textbooks, teaches them how to have respect for others’ stuff. And having to work closely with peers prepares them for respecting the opinions of others.
Prepares for the Future
In the beginning, school starts preparing your children for their future by teaching them crucial skills like basic math, reading, and writing. Over the years, the curriculum can be customized for each student based on their interests and academic abilities. For children who are excelling in primary classes, they might be moved to more advanced levels.
By the time kids are in high school, most students know what they want to focus their studies on, and they get to pick classes from a course catalog. When I was in high school, I chose a journalism major. Most of my elective courses were based on writing, such as Yearbook, Newspaper, and Creative Writing.
Being able to get an education based on your interests helps children feel invested in their learning. They have an idea of what they want to do with their lives, and they participate more because they’re interested in what they’re studying.
Teaches Problem Solving
Conflict resolution is another crucial life skill that children can learn during school. Fighting is strictly forbidden, so teachers help children engage in resolving the situation, so the altercation doesn’t become physical.
Schools start teaching problem-solving as early as kindergarten, while children are still developing their social skills. Many kids this age aren’t experienced with having to share and work with others. The longer you delay in helping children develop these skills, the harder it will be for them to learn.
The ways we learn to deal with conflicts when we’re younger influences how we continue to do so as adults. You won’t be able to hold a steady job or have a stable relationship if you overreact every time you don’t get your way. You must know how to control your emotions and solve problems rationally.
Gives Life Skills
Throughout your child’s school career, they have access to various professionals to assist with their life journey. They can see a counselor if they need to talk about things that they aren’t comfortable discussing with parents or friends. And they can get assistance with planning for college, including scholarships and college applications.
Many schools also help prepare your kids for life beyond the haven of their primary education. In high school, you can take courses that can teach you how to cook and eat right, classes on money and investing, and even learn how to work on your car or plant flowers. Whatever your child’s interests, they can explore them in school.
Elective classes allow your child to build skills that they can use to get a job while continuing their studies. Once they’re ready to enter the workforce full time, they already have some experience to include on their resume. Companies value employees who have educational credits in their chosen field of work.
Advances Society
Without education, our leaders would not be prepared to lead our country. They wouldn’t know what rules they are required to follow. They wouldn’t understand the requirements that are needed for a leader. Our country would fall to ruins.
Doctors wouldn’t be able to treat patients, which means a lot more people would suffer from being sick. Lawyers wouldn’t know how to defend their clients, meaning guilty people walk free, and innocent people go to jail. Without schools, we might never have walked on the moon, invented cars, or had the joy of the internet.
Schools ensure that we have the appropriate knowledge to achieve our goals. They help us learn what we need to succeed in life and provide students with the necessary tools. Without schools, we would still be living in the stone age rather than in modern society. No electricity, no running water.
Education is the key to progress; to the advancement of society. Think of all the third world countries. They don’t have a proper education system, so most of the country lives in poverty. There are no opportunities for a better life. Knowledge is power, and it can change the world. For some places, a school should only be allowed for certain people. But education is for anyone and everyone. It is a fundamental human right that is detrimental to the survival of humanity.
Improves Quality of Life
Overall, schools provide a better quality of life for everyone. Teachers encourage children to make sure they’re getting enough sleep at night so they’ll be well-rested and ready to learn every day. Kids learn about proper nutrition and receive two meals a day. For some kids, it is their only chance at eating. They don’t have food at home.
During school, children learn essential life skills along with age-appropriate knowledge that will help them throughout life. You might not realize you use algebra or history in your daily life, but you certainly use stuff you learned back in kindergarten, such as writing and reading. Your colors, shapes, the alphabet. Basic math.
Many children today are too dependent on their cell phones. Ask them if they can remember someone’s number? I can still tell you my very first cell phone number from 20 years ago. As well as my best friend’s landline number. Yeah, I’m that old. For many children, cell phones are their memory, their calculator, their dictionary. Why would they need to learn anything?
Even though most stuff is digital, it is still crucial that children are appropriately educated. They should always know how to spell and figure up the gratuity on a check without having to pull out their smartphones. To me, it seems like as our technology gets smarter, we’re getting dumber. All I can think about is the movie Idiocracy and how we’re slowly heading straight there.
School is Important for A Successful Life
As you see, schools have many positive benefits that children can use throughout their lives. If you want to be successful, you have to get a full education. It starts with learning to read and write. But school is about more than just memorizing facts. It helps build relationships, dreams, and futures. We hope you now understand the importance of school.