Children and Globalization Read Along Series: Part III
"Part III of "Children and Globalization" titled "Recovering Children's Agency" is an insightful and diverse collection of chapters that explore the experiences of children and youth in different contexts. These stories offer unique perspectives on the history of early American girlhood, an autoethnographic exploration of an Ibasho project with Chinese immigrant youth in the United States, and growing gaps in enacted and ideational independence, respectively.
Children and Globalization, Multidisciplinary Perspectives
https://www.routledge.com/Children-and-Globalization-Multidisciplinary-Perspectives/Mahmoudi-Mintz/p/book/9781032093178
Chapter 6, "Nothing Material Occurred," by Sharon Halevi, challenges the traditional narrative of early American girlhood as a time of innocence and purity. Halevi argues that girls during this period were not passive recipients of societal norms but were active agents who navigated complex social and cultural expectations. By analyzing the diaries of young girls, Halevi uncovers the ways in which girls expressed their agency and challenged gendered norms. This chapter is a valuable contribution to the field of childhood studies, as it highlights the importance of listening to the voices of children and youth in historical research.
Chapter 7, "To Find a Better Way to Live a Life in the World," by Tomoko Tokunaga, offers a unique perspective on the experiences of Chinese immigrant youth in the United States. Tokunaga describes an Ibasho project, which aims to create a sense of community and belonging for immigrant youth. Through a series of workshops and activities, the project encourages youth to explore their identities and connect with their cultural heritage. This chapter is a powerful reminder of the importance of creating safe and supportive spaces for immigrant youth, who often face significant challenges in adapting to a new culture.
Chapter 8, "Growing Gaps in Enacted and Ideational Independence," by Yulia Chentsova Dutton and Derya Gürcan-Yildirim, explores the challenges faced by children and youth in contemporary society. The authors argue that there is a growing gap between the enacted independence (the ability to make decisions and act on them) and ideational independence (the ability to think critically and independently) of children and youth. This gap is caused by a variety of factors, including overprotective parenting, excessive screen time, and a lack of opportunities for unstructured play. The authors suggest several potential solutions to address this gap, including promoting outdoor play, encouraging children to take risks, and fostering a sense of autonomy and responsibility.
As we wrap up Part III, a rich picture emerges – one where kids aren't just passive players but active agents in their worlds. These chapters challenge traditional narratives of childhood and offer new perspectives on the ways in which children and youth navigate complex social and cultural expectations. As a reader, I was left with a deeper appreciation for the agency of children and youth and a renewed commitment to creating safe and supportive spaces for them to thrive.
About the Author:
Eden is a Graduate Assistant with the Baha’i Chair for World Peace. She is attending the University of Maryland and pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Care Management. She graduated from the University of Maryland in 2023 with a B.S. in Public Health Science. Her interests are in health disparities and policy.
