In the realm of parenting, the cries of “That’s not fair!” from children are a common refrain. As a researcher exploring children’s understanding of fairness, I often encounter these protests from my two young kids at home, covering everything from adult privileges like staying up late to mundane matters such as dessert sharing.
These seemingly trivial complaints can be surprisingly provocative. In response, we might default to clichés like “Life isn’t fair,” or try to justify our actions. However, if we aim to cultivate a sense of justice in children, we must engage them in discussions about fairness. They need our guidance to differentiate between personal preferences and genuine injustices.
Research shows that children display an early concern for justice. Infants show a preference for kind puppets, and toddlers distribute treats based on a character’s virtue. As they grow, they start to understand the nuances between equality, equity, and the factors contributing to inequality.
By age 12, children from different socioeconomic backgrounds hold distinct views on justice. Affluent children may see their lives as fairer, while less privileged ones perceive more injustice. Family and educational environments play a crucial role in shaping these perspectives. Children who feel heard by their parents tend to view their lives as fairer, regardless of their economic situation.
Unfair experiences, whether in school or at home, can have a profound impact. Zero – tolerance policies in schools, for example, can be unjust, leading to feelings of powerlessness and cynicism in children. On the other hand, environments that focus on restoring justice can empower children.
When children protest unfairness, it’s essential for us to empathize, understand their capacity to comprehend the situation, and guide them. We should neither shield them from the reality of injustice nor instill a sense of hopelessness. Instead, we must encourage them to engage with the concept of justice, think critically, and take action.
Recently, my daughter showed solidarity with her brother when he lost his cookie privilege, demonstrating her understanding of equality and justice. These small family moments are building blocks in their journey towards a more just worldview. Our goal as parents and educators should be to equip children with the tools to recognize injustice, advocate for others, and foster a more just society.
