The Tale of George Atzerodt

[brtmchl]

Bill. I agree with you to a point. What is a correct level of exposure a child should have on a certain topic? Children watch, play, and read much more (explicit) violence outside of the classroom, yet our school systems shield them from actual historic topics. My wife is a teacher, and sometimes battles with how much detail she should go into on any given subject, only to find that her worries were for nothing. What she was afraid of teaching was considered tame to her students. She also tells me about the books and movies her kids are reading and can't understand why a parent would allow their child to watch such things.

I don't believe that children in 5th grade and up, can't handle the Hallocaust, Lincoln assassination, or the bombing of Hiroshima. I think actual real life subjects are important. Kids are too wrapped up in fantasy violence. It is so over the top, that a little real life might be good to understand there are consequences. I am not suggesting at this level to go into graphic detail. I have taught the Lincoln assassination in my wife's 5th grade classroom now for 3 years.

I can tell you that I have seen just about every emotion from the kids. I have seen immature students, who laugh and make jokes in the beginning sit quietly throughout the remainder, listening intently. I have seen children comment that they were afraid, especially of Powell, and I have seen children weep for Lincoln. But every one of those kids made comments later, that they never knew the actual story and that it was one of their favorite classes of the school year.

I also understand the politics involved, but are we concerned that the children can't handle it? Teachers also have to tread lightly on certain areas because of parents, often times one parent, and the administration. If it is laid out in the curriculum, teach it. But really teach it.

Whether they have the maturity to handle it is another question.