Q. What kind of thoughts do parents with children express? 【Interviewing a Mother of Two Children】

Q. What kind of thoughts do parents with children express? What kind of thoughts do people have about children's voices being considered noise? How much responsibility should parents have for noisy children?

To answer these research questions, I chose to interview my mother, who has successfully raised two children and has experience living in both Japanese and American apartments.

Basic information 

<Japanese Apartment>

Period lived: When I was 0-6 years old

 

<American Apartment>

Period lived: When I was 8-12 years old


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1. Have you ever experienced situations or times when you felt that children were noisy? If so, what were the circumstances?

"I can't remember because it was a long time ago, but maybe it was when I was tired but the kids wouldn't sleep."

 

2. Have you ever received complaints from neighbors about the noise caused by your two children?

"No, I have never received any complaints."

 

3. What measures have you taken to address the noise issue, and which ones have been effective?

"When we lived in an apartment building, we were careful about footsteps. During the day, we didn't pay much attention, but after 9 PM, if they were being noisy or running around, we would caution them and suggest other quiet activities like drawing, watching videos, doing puzzles, or crafts. However, both of them weren't really into sports-related activities, so it was okay because they enjoyed making things."

 

4. What factors contributed to the children becoming noisy, and how did you respond to them?

"Generally, it's because they are tired, hungry, exhausted, or not feeling well and they can't express their physiological needs effectively with words or handle them on their own like adults. So, I tried to fulfill those needs and be with them. I would hug them and comfort them."

 

5. Did this change depending on the age and developmental stage of the children?

"It changes with their developmental stages because their basic needs evolve. As children grow, they become more like adults. But I think it's important to repeatedly teach them when and where they shouldn't be noisy. However, it is important have tolerance and consider it as a joyful expression of youth and vitality."

 

6. Have you received advice from other parents or experts regarding the noise issue? What kind of advice was it?

"I have never received advice from experts, but I think that since they are children, it's natural for them to make noise if they are upset. It's also important for us to have a warm perspective and watch them grow. It's crucial to explain why they need to be quiet and ask them questions to make them think about why they should be quiet."

 

7. What are the differences between Japan and the United States?

"I think there are more mothers in the United States who engage in dialogue. Rather than simply telling them to be quiet, many people explain the reasons why they shouldn't be noisy. The guidelines for living in an apartment building might be the same in any country. Be mindful not to make noise early in the morning or at night. Also, it may be necessary to exercise during the day. That way, they will sleep earlier at night. If they play vigorously during the day, they will be quiet at night. It's also important to develop a regular daily routine and have fulfilling relationships, basic needs, and a sense of well-being. Regardless of the country, it's important to greet your neighbors, make them aware of your presence, and become part of the local community. It might be easier to do in the United States because they are more tolerant. In Japan, people don't greet each other, but in the United States, they do."


8. How much responsibility should parents have for noisy children?

"Parents bear a significant responsibility for their children's behavior, including managing noise levels. While the degree of responsibility may vary depending on individual circumstances, it is generally expected that parents take appropriate measures to address and control their children's noise. This includes teaching them about the importance of respecting noise levels in different settings, setting clear expectations, and providing guidance on appropriate behavior. By actively engaging in their children's upbringing and promoting respectful conduct, parents can help create a harmonious environment both within their own household and in the broader community."


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It turns out that my sister and I were generally quiet children, so my mother never had to deal with us being loud. However, the responsibility of parents to communicate with their children and teach them right from wrong is crucial in creating a healthier community.


Published by Rina


Source

Hayashi, R. H., & Hayashi, K. H. (2023, July 8). What Kind of Thoughts do Parents with Children Express? 【Interviewing a Mother of Two Children】.

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