ideal upbringing essay

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✍️Essay on Childhood: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words

• Updated on  
• Nov 2, 2023

Essay on Childhood: How was your childhood? I bet it was full of adventure, fun and joyful activities. Agatha Christie has rightly said – ‘One of the luckiest things that can happen to you in life is, I think, to have a happy childhood.’ Childhood memories are considered one of the most beautiful days one can ever experience in their life. Those are the days one can never forget. Well, no amount of words can describe those good old days. Today we will highlight the importance of childhood with some essays on childhood which you can use anywhere.

Table of Contents

• 1 Importance of Childhood
• 2 Essay on Childhood in 100 Words
• 3 Essay on Childhood in 150 Words
• 4 Essay on Childhood in 200 Words

Importance of Childhood

Childhood is life’s early stage of development where growth and changes rapidly take place A child needs to be nurtured and loved by all their family, friends, and teachers around him. At the same time, the child must have a healthy childhood to have a better mental health lifelong.

Childhood is that stage where young children get to learn about themselves as well as their surroundings. Early childhood is the best time to learn about developing good habits that will help them shape their future and at the same time be good human beings. Children should get into the habit of eating healthy food, getting fresh air, drinking plenty of water and finally doing a lot of exercise. By doing so, this will help them to grow into resilient adults who will be able to handle any situation.

Moreover, a child’s childhood is that period of their lifetime when they get to develop their personalities. Also, it is the time when they must be exposed to a variety of situations to develop into responsible people. It is important to remember that childhood is a time when children learn from their experiences and mistakes, explore various opportunities and create memories from them. 

Also Read: Essay on the Importance of the English Language for Students

Essay on Childhood in 100 Words

Childhood is that period when a child is considered to be one of the most carefree and joyful. In this period, a child has a lot of innocence, an unlimited number of opportunities and is naive. 

Some of the best childhood memories one can have are learning new things, playing with their friends, spending time with their family and finally learning skills which will help them lifelong. We all can recall those days when we used to play various types of games with our friends in the evening after school. The excitement of finishing our studies and going out, those days of watching our favourite TV shows can never be forgotten. 

Apart from all the fun days, childhood is the best time for personal development. We pick up the skills necessary such as communication skills and engage with the world. Each of us develops our distinct interests.

Also Read: Essay on Save Environment: Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

Essay on Childhood in 150 Words

We all remember that magical period of our lives- Childhood. It was that time of our lives when the world around us was full of excitement when we were surrounded by our close ones and had nothing to worry about. Those days when all we had to do was study, meet friends, go to school and play outside. We all had created our exciting worlds. 

One of my most treasured childhood memories is, spending time with family and friends. Those days when we would visit our grandparent’s house, listening to stories during vacations is another of the best memories. All these memories have led to the creation of a unique bond between our family and who we have become as adults.

Apart from all the memories, childhood is the most important period of our lives when we get to learn new things and mould ourselves. It is rightly said that what we learn during our childhood days we get to carry throughout our lives.

How beautiful was that period, when we got to cultivate our talents, pick up new skills, and create our own distinct identities 

Also Read: Essay on Unity in Diversity in 100 to 200 Words

Essay on Childhood in 200 Words

Childhood is a magical period of one’s life. Those days of innocence, fun and endless possibilities, oh, how can one forget that It is now that we wish that we had the chance to relive that period once again? How can we forget that time when we created an endless amount of memories which will last a lifetime?

Gone are those days when we fought with our parents to buy us toys or play. With time, the definition of childhood has also changed. Children in the 21st century will now have a unique childhood experience, shaped by the technological advancements and social changes of our time. Now, children have access to information on their electronic devices (iPads/Phones). How can we forget, that children now prefer to use smartphones for entertaining themselves rather than playing outside? 

Despite these changes, the meaning of childhood can change no matter if the way of living has changed. Growing children still crave the love, support and guidance which will help them to be responsible adults. 

To conclude, everybody’s childhood is a priceless period. Parents and other adults who care for children contribute to their joyful and fulfilled childhood by showing them love, support, and guidance.

Related Articles

The time of life from birth to adolescence is known as childhood. It is a period of fast-paced cognitive, emotional, and physical growth. During this period, children learn and develop, acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as adults.

Early experiences have a significant impact on how the brain develops in children.

There is no specified age for childhood. It depends on the person’s brain development. A person aged 18 or 21 can be considered as a child than someone who is 16 or 17.

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay-writing page and follow Leverage Edu ! 

Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Personal Growth and Development — The Environment in Which I Was Raised: a Reflection

The Environment in Which I Was Raised: a Reflection

• Categories: Moral Development Personal Growth and Development

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Words: 673 |

Published: Sep 5, 2023

Words: 673 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

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Familial foundation, cultural influences, community connection, environmental consciousness.

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What is an ideal childhood?

Michael morpurgo, author.

A child needs to feel from the very start that she or he is wanted and loved. They should grow up in the soil of affection of care. There is no replacement for that, it is the most important thing. If that isn’t right from the very beginning then everything that follows is playing catch up – trying to make better that which isn’t good.

After that, it’s all about caring for the individual genius of the child – discovering what it is that that person loves to be doing – whether it’s painting something, turning over the pages of a book or on their hands and knees in a sand pit. It doesn’t matter. It’s focusing on what it is they love and giving them the space and time to explore that.

Linked to this is a very strong conviction that the first seven years of school should probably be delayed. The grounding at home is so, so important. To me, the formal learning process should kick in much later, only after all this ground work has been done. When they do go to school it shouldn’t be a huge separation from the atmosphere of home – it should be a continuity of that care and affection. The whole notion that we should suddenly make scholars out of children and be testing them when they are four or five is completely absurd. Courtesy of recent education ministers, things are now akin to how I was brought up in the 1940s and 1950s when everything depended on passing tests, and if you didn’t do well the presumption was that you weren’t trying hard enough.

What do we learn from all this testing? That some parents will be able to say, “Look how bright my child is – isn’t it great?” But at the same time another child is going to feel knocked back, not up to it and ultimately that they won’t be loved so much. The whole process can create major problems in terms of self-confidence later on. It’s very sad and it makes me very, very cross.

That’s the thing about childhood – you can’t measure it. You can witness the most wonderful things when young people grow up but of course you cannot grade it. When it comes down to it, the building of self-confidence and self-worth is everything. Nothing else will happen if that doesn’t happen.

Cerrie Burnell, CBBC presenter

I’ve got a physical disability and I’m severely dyslexic so you would think both those things would have worked against me as a child, but actually they didn’t. I have a mum who didn’t make an issue out of it, instead she focused on the joyful aspects of childhood in a very simple, creative way. She told me there was nothing I couldn’t do. So I rode a horse when I was two despite having just one hand to hold the reins. I went to France on my own when I was nine and America when I was 11.

I remember a doctor saying to me once, if you don’t wear your prosthetic hand you won’t have any friends. I just laughed. I always used to remove it when I got to school and my friends thought it was hilarious that I would just walk into the classroom and take my arm off. For me it wasn’t an issue. Children come into the world afresh, without all of the baggage, sadness or anxiety that the parents carry. What my mum did was mask all of that for me and met me at my level. I think childhood is a time to learn tolerance and how to be inclusive.

For me it’s all about the basics. Childhood is about learning how to make friends and working together in a group. It’s about imaginative play, sharing stories and planning midnight feasts. Things like that will ground you in a human experience of loveliness that you will pass on. The communal experience is also essential for a child and that could be reading, watching TV or anything, so long as it’s in a group. Increasingly we rarely see different generations coming together, unless it’s at a wedding, and that’s a shame.

We didn’t have a TV when I was growing up which, at the time, was a real bugbear for me. I found it really frustrating when my friends talked about programmes that I couldn’t see. It’s ironic, in a way, that I’ve gone on to work in children’s TV, but it also meant that we were always doing other things and I was never bored.

These days spontaneity is crucial. We have all become obsessed with making plans and booking in playdates. Even the word play-date I find weird – I can’t bring myself to say it. What’s wrong with, “When can I see you?” We have become way too prescriptive and organised about what we let our kids do. A child has no measure of what things cost so you might as well go for a walk in a forest as a costly trip to an ice rink or restaurant. To them it makes no difference. We are living in such a time of change, such interesting times, but a whirlwind all the same. Simple pleasures must be cherished.

Lemn Sissay, poet

I think that nature is a gift that every parent should try to give to a child. If you form a relationship with nature early on – and I don’t mean you have to go and live in a field, you can be in an urban area and form a relationship with nature – it’s a very powerful thing. Enabling a child to be at ease in open spaces helps them to understand their feelings.

When I was in a children’s home, I used to go walking in the fields just to allow my brain to connect with something that was bigger than the institutions that brought me up. And the same could apply to the institution of family just as the institution of a children’s home.

I also think it’s a really good thing if a family has a belief. That could be leftwing politics, rightwing politics, Christianity or the Koran. The child who sees their parents believe in something is the child who will have a strong idea of who they are. One of the greatest signs of growth in a young person is when they start to choose what they believe in.

I was brought up in a very dysfunctional, seriously Christian foster family, but they always encouraged me to ask questions. That ability to think of home as a place where ideas can be cultivated is really important. You can’t give a young person a voice – they already have one. The skill is learning how to hear that voice and offering the space and opportunity for it to grow.

We tell our children the world is their oyster yet at the same time many of us have a fear of the rest of the world. If children are not taught about the virtues of diversity then they fall prey to racist behaviour. So a happy childhood is one where they are taught that there are languages they don’t understand and people with different experiences to theirs. You don’t have to be the huggy kid who shakes hands with everyone, but it’s important they are taught to be OK with it.

Ultimately, family is a collection of stories and childhood is an introduction to that book. As you live your life you come to realise the significance of that introduction. The effect of your childhood is played out in your adulthood. What happens in that introduction is everything.

Jacqueline Wilson, author

At the moment I am going through lots of emails from the girls who read my books and send them to the website. At one end of the spectrum there are the children who are upset about being teased or not being popular and at the other the ones who are actually having a really tough time.

It’s almost impossible to make a completely happy, safe, secure life for children with all friends being kind to each other and nobody running off with someone else. So it’s all about making children resilient and helping them not get too upset if there’s a bit of name-calling. It’s also important to recognise the difference between harmless teasing and hateful, sadistic behaviour, which obviously has to be stopped.

I think if you’ve got someone who loves you, makes a fuss of you and cares about you, that means you are having a good childhood, no matter what the circumstances. I don’t think it matters a tiny bit about money, nor whether you are being brought up by both parents, like people used to think. If you’ve got love and attention, it doesn’t matter if you’ve got a single parent or are being raised by a granny.

I think that the very best kind of attention you can give a child is reading with them. That could be cuddling up with a toddler or sharing stories with an older child. I think it’s a lovely thing to do. I’m also very much in favour of doing things as a group. So eating as a family and viewing things together on TV, rather than a child watching the iPlayer alone in his or her bedroom. I’m just old-fashioned, but I think we have to pull together.

I also think a good childhood is one in which the child is consulted. Not that they should dictate to you but that you should sit down once in a while and just have a little discussion about anything they want to share.

A few rules help, too. It’s important that children know that you may be indulgent about some things but that there are also some things that you won’t tolerate. When I was about 13 some of my friends were going off for a few days on a Ban the Bomb march. I asked my mum if I could go. She refused. I whined and moaned and told my friends it was so unfair but inside I was quite glad. I was a wimpy kid and would have been quite frightened.

It’s all about balance. It’s a good thing to have a few rules but lots of love as well.

Laura Dockrill, performance poet

My memories of being a kid are my most pure; everything is still so clear to me and that’s a good sign. A childhood should be silly, fun, thoughtful and free. I loved being a kid so much that it has influenced my work and pretty much everything I do today. My parents were kind of punks. They had a big group of friends and I was the first child to be born and brought up among them so I spent a lot of time in pubs having conversations with grownups. I knew I wanted to observe, write and create characters because I was just fascinated by all my mum and dad’s friends.

For me the most important ingredient of childhood is fun. My parents were spontaneous. Some days my dad would come and pick us out of our beds in our pyjamas and throw us in the bath, and then serve our cereal in the water on a tray. On my seventh birthday, he bought cans of shaving foam and sprayed everyone with it. The other mums weren’t too happy but it was the best party of our lives.

Both my parents worked freelance, so we didn’t have much money. Our dining table was our next door neighbour’s old garden furniture and my clothes all came from the charity shop. I knew it was different, but I certainly didn’t feel deprived. I found happiness in the simplest things – jumping off the wardrobe with my brother and sister, or a really nice pudding. It was the days before PlayStation, for which I’m grateful.

Imagination was important. Mum would bring pebbles home from the beach and pretend they were dragon’s eggs. We’d put them on top of the TV, keeping an eye out until they hatched, which of course they never did.

I am also grateful that I didn’t feel any pressure about the way I looked. I can’t imagine how hard it must be for kids growing up now under the glare of social media. I had a childminder who was really into the Stone Roses. She drank beer and couldn’t be bothered with makeup – she was a real woman’s woman. Having someone like that to look up to was great for a child like me. I didn’t worry about my hair, I didn’t own a bra, I wasn’t fussed about boys. I was oblivious. When I turned 15, I was like, “‘Why did no one tell me to wash my hair?” But looking back, it was a great thing to give a child. I got some extra time – it gave me an extension on my childhood.

Interviews by Lena Corner

Michael Morpurgo, Jacqueline Wilson, Cerrie Burnell, Lemn Sissay and Laura Dockrill will talk about what makes a good childhood at WHY? What’s Happening for the Young at the South Bank Centre, London SE1. The festival runs from 22-25 October 2015. More information, southbankcentre.co.uk

• Michael Morpurgo
• Jacqueline Wilson
• Lemn Sissay
• Cerrie Burnell

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College Admissions , College Essays

The personal statement might just be the hardest part of your college application. Mostly this is because it has the least guidance and is the most open-ended. One way to understand what colleges are looking for when they ask you to write an essay is to check out the essays of students who already got in—college essays that actually worked. After all, they must be among the most successful of this weird literary genre.

In this article, I'll go through general guidelines for what makes great college essays great. I've also compiled an enormous list of 100+ actual sample college essays from 11 different schools. Finally, I'll break down two of these published college essay examples and explain why and how they work. With links to 177 full essays and essay excerpts , this article is a great resource for learning how to craft your own personal college admissions essay!

What Excellent College Essays Have in Common

Even though in many ways these sample college essays are very different from one other, they do share some traits you should try to emulate as you write your own essay.

Visible Signs of Planning

Building out from a narrow, concrete focus. You'll see a similar structure in many of the essays. The author starts with a very detailed story of an event or description of a person or place. After this sense-heavy imagery, the essay expands out to make a broader point about the author, and connects this very memorable experience to the author's present situation, state of mind, newfound understanding, or maturity level.

Knowing how to tell a story. Some of the experiences in these essays are one-of-a-kind. But most deal with the stuff of everyday life. What sets them apart is the way the author approaches the topic: analyzing it for drama and humor, for its moving qualities, for what it says about the author's world, and for how it connects to the author's emotional life.

Stellar Execution

A killer first sentence. You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: you have to suck the reader in, and the best place to do that is the first sentence. Great first sentences are punchy. They are like cliffhangers, setting up an exciting scene or an unusual situation with an unclear conclusion, in order to make the reader want to know more. Don't take my word for it—check out these 22 first sentences from Stanford applicants and tell me you don't want to read the rest of those essays to find out what happens!

A lively, individual voice. Writing is for readers. In this case, your reader is an admissions officer who has read thousands of essays before yours and will read thousands after. Your goal? Don't bore your reader. Use interesting descriptions, stay away from clichés, include your own offbeat observations—anything that makes this essay sounds like you and not like anyone else.

Technical correctness. No spelling mistakes, no grammar weirdness, no syntax issues, no punctuation snafus—each of these sample college essays has been formatted and proofread perfectly. If this kind of exactness is not your strong suit, you're in luck! All colleges advise applicants to have their essays looked over several times by parents, teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can spot a comma splice. Your essay must be your own work, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting help polishing it.

And if you need more guidance, connect with PrepScholar's expert admissions consultants . These expert writers know exactly what college admissions committees look for in an admissions essay and chan help you craft an essay that boosts your chances of getting into your dream school.

Check out PrepScholar's Essay Editing and Coaching progra m for more details!

Links to Full College Essay Examples

Some colleges publish a selection of their favorite accepted college essays that worked, and I've put together a selection of over 100 of these.

Common App Essay Samples

Please note that some of these college essay examples may be responding to prompts that are no longer in use. The current Common App prompts are as follows:

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? 4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of 177 college essay examples responding to current and past Common App essay prompts. 

Connecticut college.

• 12 Common Application essays from the classes of 2022-2025

Hamilton College

• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2026
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2022
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2018
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2012
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2007

Johns Hopkins

These essays are answers to past prompts from either the Common Application or the Coalition Application (which Johns Hopkins used to accept).

• 1 Common Application or Coalition Application essay from the class of 2026
• 6 Common Application or Coalition Application essays from the class of 2025
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2024
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2023
• 7 Common Application of Universal Application essays from the class of 2022
• 5 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2021
• 7 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2020

Essay Examples Published by Other Websites

• 2 Common Application essays ( 1st essay , 2nd essay ) from applicants admitted to Columbia

Other Sample College Essays

Here is a collection of essays that are college-specific.

Babson College

• 4 essays (and 1 video response) on "Why Babson" from the class of 2020

Emory University

• 5 essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) from the class of 2020 along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on why the essays were exceptional
• 5 more recent essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on what made these essays stand out

University of Georgia

• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2019
• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2018
• 10 Harvard essays from 2023
• 10 Harvard essays from 2022
• 10 Harvard essays from 2021
• 10 Harvard essays from 2020
• 10 Harvard essays from 2019
• 10 Harvard essays from 2018
• 6 essays from admitted MIT students

Smith College

• 6 "best gift" essays from the class of 2018

Books of College Essays

If you're looking for even more sample college essays, consider purchasing a college essay book. The best of these include dozens of essays that worked and feedback from real admissions officers.

College Essays That Made a Difference —This detailed guide from Princeton Review includes not only successful essays, but also interviews with admissions officers and full student profiles.

50 Successful Harvard Application Essays by the Staff of the Harvard Crimson—A must for anyone aspiring to Harvard .

50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays and 50 Successful Stanford Application Essays by Gen and Kelly Tanabe—For essays from other top schools, check out this venerated series, which is regularly updated with new essays.

Heavenly Essays by Janine W. Robinson—This collection from the popular blogger behind Essay Hell includes a wider range of schools, as well as helpful tips on honing your own essay.

Analyzing Great Common App Essays That Worked

I've picked two essays from the examples collected above to examine in more depth so that you can see exactly what makes a successful college essay work. Full credit for these essays goes to the original authors and the schools that published them.

Example 1: "Breaking Into Cars," by Stephen, Johns Hopkins Class of '19 (Common App Essay, 636 words long)

I had never broken into a car before.

We were in Laredo, having just finished our first day at a Habitat for Humanity work site. The Hotchkiss volunteers had already left, off to enjoy some Texas BBQ, leaving me behind with the college kids to clean up. Not until we were stranded did we realize we were locked out of the van.

Someone picked a coat hanger out of the dumpster, handed it to me, and took a few steps back.

"Can you do that thing with a coat hanger to unlock it?"

"Why me?" I thought.

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame. Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally. My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed. "The water's on fire! Clear a hole!" he shouted, tossing me in the lake without warning. While I'm still unconvinced about that particular lesson's practicality, my Dad's overarching message is unequivocally true: much of life is unexpected, and you have to deal with the twists and turns.

Living in my family, days rarely unfolded as planned. A bit overlooked, a little pushed around, I learned to roll with reality, negotiate a quick deal, and give the improbable a try. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I definitely don't expect perfect fairness. So what if our dining room table only has six chairs for seven people? Someone learns the importance of punctuality every night.

But more than punctuality and a special affinity for musical chairs, my family life has taught me to thrive in situations over which I have no power. Growing up, I never controlled my older siblings, but I learned how to thwart their attempts to control me. I forged alliances, and realigned them as necessary. Sometimes, I was the poor, defenseless little brother; sometimes I was the omniscient elder. Different things to different people, as the situation demanded. I learned to adapt.

Back then, these techniques were merely reactions undertaken to ensure my survival. But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The question caught me off guard, much like the question posed to me in Laredo. Then, I realized I knew the answer. I knew why the coat hanger had been handed to me.

Growing up as the middle child in my family, I was a vital participant in a thing I did not govern, in the company of people I did not choose. It's family. It's society. And often, it's chaos. You participate by letting go of the small stuff, not expecting order and perfection, and facing the unexpected with confidence, optimism, and preparedness. My family experience taught me to face a serendipitous world with confidence.

What Makes This Essay Tick?

It's very helpful to take writing apart in order to see just how it accomplishes its objectives. Stephen's essay is very effective. Let's find out why!

An Opening Line That Draws You In

In just eight words, we get: scene-setting (he is standing next to a car about to break in), the idea of crossing a boundary (he is maybe about to do an illegal thing for the first time), and a cliffhanger (we are thinking: is he going to get caught? Is he headed for a life of crime? Is he about to be scared straight?).

Great, Detailed Opening Story

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame.

It's the details that really make this small experience come alive. Notice how whenever he can, Stephen uses a more specific, descriptive word in place of a more generic one. The volunteers aren't going to get food or dinner; they're going for "Texas BBQ." The coat hanger comes from "a dumpster." Stephen doesn't just move the coat hanger—he "jiggles" it.

Details also help us visualize the emotions of the people in the scene. The person who hands Stephen the coat hanger isn't just uncomfortable or nervous; he "takes a few steps back"—a description of movement that conveys feelings. Finally, the detail of actual speech makes the scene pop. Instead of writing that the other guy asked him to unlock the van, Stephen has the guy actually say his own words in a way that sounds like a teenager talking.

Turning a Specific Incident Into a Deeper Insight

Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

Stephen makes the locked car experience a meaningful illustration of how he has learned to be resourceful and ready for anything, and he also makes this turn from the specific to the broad through an elegant play on the two meanings of the word "click."

Using Concrete Examples When Making Abstract Claims

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally.

"Unpredictability and chaos" are very abstract, not easily visualized concepts. They could also mean any number of things—violence, abandonment, poverty, mental instability. By instantly following up with highly finite and unambiguous illustrations like "family of seven" and "siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing," Stephen grounds the abstraction in something that is easy to picture: a large, noisy family.

Using Small Bits of Humor and Casual Word Choice

My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed.

Obviously, knowing how to clean burning oil is not high on the list of things every 9-year-old needs to know. To emphasize this, Stephen uses sarcasm by bringing up a situation that is clearly over-the-top: "in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed."

The humor also feels relaxed. Part of this is because he introduces it with the colloquial phrase "you know," so it sounds like he is talking to us in person. This approach also diffuses the potential discomfort of the reader with his father's strictness—since he is making jokes about it, clearly he is OK. Notice, though, that this doesn't occur very much in the essay. This helps keep the tone meaningful and serious rather than flippant.

An Ending That Stretches the Insight Into the Future

But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The ending of the essay reveals that Stephen's life has been one long preparation for the future. He has emerged from chaos and his dad's approach to parenting as a person who can thrive in a world that he can't control.

This connection of past experience to current maturity and self-knowledge is a key element in all successful personal essays. Colleges are very much looking for mature, self-aware applicants. These are the qualities of successful college students, who will be able to navigate the independence college classes require and the responsibility and quasi-adulthood of college life.

What Could This Essay Do Even Better?

Even the best essays aren't perfect, and even the world's greatest writers will tell you that writing is never "finished"—just "due." So what would we tweak in this essay if we could?

Replace some of the clichéd language. Stephen uses handy phrases like "twists and turns" and "don't sweat the small stuff" as a kind of shorthand for explaining his relationship to chaos and unpredictability. But using too many of these ready-made expressions runs the risk of clouding out your own voice and replacing it with something expected and boring.

Use another example from recent life. Stephen's first example (breaking into the van in Laredo) is a great illustration of being resourceful in an unexpected situation. But his essay also emphasizes that he "learned to adapt" by being "different things to different people." It would be great to see how this plays out outside his family, either in the situation in Laredo or another context.

Example 2: By Renner Kwittken, Tufts Class of '23 (Common App Essay, 645 words long)

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver. I saw it in my favorite book, Richard Scarry's "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," and for some reason, I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of driving a giant pickle. Much to the discontent of my younger sister, I insisted that my parents read us that book as many nights as possible so we could find goldbug, a small little golden bug, on every page. I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Then I discovered a real goldbug: gold nanoparticles that can reprogram macrophages to assist in killing tumors, produce clear images of them without sacrificing the subject, and heat them to obliteration.

Suddenly the destination of my pickle was clear.

I quickly became enveloped by the world of nanomedicine; I scoured articles about liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, targeting ligands, and self-assembling nanoparticles, all conquering cancer in some exotic way. Completely absorbed, I set out to find a mentor to dive even deeper into these topics. After several rejections, I was immensely grateful to receive an invitation to work alongside Dr. Sangeeta Ray at Johns Hopkins.

In the lab, Dr. Ray encouraged a great amount of autonomy to design and implement my own procedures. I chose to attack a problem that affects the entire field of nanomedicine: nanoparticles consistently fail to translate from animal studies into clinical trials. Jumping off recent literature, I set out to see if a pre-dose of a common chemotherapeutic could enhance nanoparticle delivery in aggressive prostate cancer, creating three novel constructs based on three different linear polymers, each using fluorescent dye (although no gold, sorry goldbug!). Though using radioactive isotopes like Gallium and Yttrium would have been incredible, as a 17-year-old, I unfortunately wasn't allowed in the same room as these radioactive materials (even though I took a Geiger counter to a pair of shoes and found them to be slightly dangerous).

I hadn't expected my hypothesis to work, as the research project would have ideally been led across two full years. Yet while there are still many optimizations and revisions to be done, I was thrilled to find -- with completely new nanoparticles that may one day mean future trials will use particles with the initials "RK-1" -- thatcyclophosphamide did indeed increase nanoparticle delivery to the tumor in a statistically significant way.

A secondary, unexpected research project was living alone in Baltimore, a new city to me, surrounded by people much older than I. Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research. Whether in a presentation or in a casual conversation, making others interested in science is perhaps more exciting to me than the research itself. This solidified a new pursuit to angle my love for writing towards illuminating science in ways people can understand, adding value to a society that can certainly benefit from more scientific literacy.

It seems fitting that my goals are still transforming: in Scarry's book, there is not just one goldbug, there is one on every page. With each new experience, I'm learning that it isn't the goldbug itself, but rather the act of searching for the goldbugs that will encourage, shape, and refine my ever-evolving passions. Regardless of the goldbug I seek -- I know my pickle truck has just begun its journey.

Renner takes a somewhat different approach than Stephen, but their essay is just as detailed and engaging. Let's go through some of the strengths of this essay.

One Clear Governing Metaphor

This essay is ultimately about two things: Renner’s dreams and future career goals, and Renner’s philosophy on goal-setting and achieving one’s dreams.

But instead of listing off all the amazing things they’ve done to pursue their dream of working in nanomedicine, Renner tells a powerful, unique story instead. To set up the narrative, Renner opens the essay by connecting their experiences with goal-setting and dream-chasing all the way back to a memorable childhood experience:

This lighthearted–but relevant!--story about the moment when Renner first developed a passion for a specific career (“finding the goldbug”) provides an anchor point for the rest of the essay. As Renner pivots to describing their current dreams and goals–working in nanomedicine–the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” is reflected in Renner’s experiments, rejections, and new discoveries.

Though Renner tells multiple stories about their quest to “find the goldbug,” or, in other words, pursue their passion, each story is connected by a unifying theme; namely, that as we search and grow over time, our goals will transform…and that’s okay! By the end of the essay, Renner uses the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” to reiterate the relevance of the opening story:

While the earlier parts of the essay convey Renner’s core message by showing, the final, concluding paragraph sums up Renner’s insights by telling. By briefly and clearly stating the relevance of the goldbug metaphor to their own philosophy on goals and dreams, Renner demonstrates their creativity, insight, and eagerness to grow and evolve as the journey continues into college.

An Engaging, Individual Voice

This essay uses many techniques that make Renner sound genuine and make the reader feel like we already know them.

Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other).

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Renner gives a great example of how to use humor to your advantage in college essays. You don’t want to come off as too self-deprecating or sarcastic, but telling a lightheartedly humorous story about your younger self that also showcases how you’ve grown and changed over time can set the right tone for your entire essay.

Technique #2: intentional, eye-catching structure. The second technique is the way Renner uses a unique structure to bolster the tone and themes of their essay . The structure of your essay can have a major impact on how your ideas come across…so it’s important to give it just as much thought as the content of your essay!

For instance, Renner does a great job of using one-line paragraphs to create dramatic emphasis and to make clear transitions from one phase of the story to the next:

Suddenly the destination of my pickle car was clear.

Not only does the one-liner above signal that Renner is moving into a new phase of the narrative (their nanoparticle research experiences), it also tells the reader that this is a big moment in Renner’s story. It’s clear that Renner made a major discovery that changed the course of their goal pursuit and dream-chasing. Through structure, Renner conveys excitement and entices the reader to keep pushing forward to the next part of the story.

Technique #3: playing with syntax. The third technique is to use sentences of varying length, syntax, and structure. Most of the essay's written in standard English and uses grammatically correct sentences. However, at key moments, Renner emphasizes that the reader needs to sit up and pay attention by switching to short, colloquial, differently punctuated, and sometimes fragmented sentences.

Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research.

In the examples above, Renner switches adeptly between long, flowing sentences and quippy, telegraphic ones. At the same time, Renner uses these different sentence lengths intentionally. As they describe their experiences in new places, they use longer sentences to immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of those experiences. And when it’s time to get a big, key idea across, Renner switches to a short, punchy sentence to stop the reader in their tracks.

The varying syntax and sentence lengths pull the reader into the narrative and set up crucial “aha” moments when it’s most important…which is a surefire way to make any college essay stand out.

Renner's essay is very strong, but there are still a few little things that could be improved.

Connecting the research experiences to the theme of “finding the goldbug.”  The essay begins and ends with Renner’s connection to the idea of “finding the goldbug.” And while this metaphor is deftly tied into the essay’s intro and conclusion, it isn’t entirely clear what Renner’s big findings were during the research experiences that are described in the middle of the essay. It would be great to add a sentence or two stating what Renner’s big takeaways (or “goldbugs”) were from these experiences, which add more cohesion to the essay as a whole.

Give more details about discovering the world of nanomedicine. It makes sense that Renner wants to get into the details of their big research experiences as quickly as possible. After all, these are the details that show Renner’s dedication to nanomedicine! But a smoother transition from the opening pickle car/goldbug story to Renner’s “real goldbug” of nanoparticles would help the reader understand why nanoparticles became Renner’s goldbug. Finding out why Renner is so motivated to study nanomedicine–and perhaps what put them on to this field of study–would help readers fully understand why Renner chose this path in the first place.

4 Essential Tips for Writing Your Own Essay

How can you use this discussion to better your own college essay? Here are some suggestions for ways to use this resource effectively.

#1: Get Help From the Experts

Getting your college applications together takes a lot of work and can be pretty intimidatin g. Essays are even more important than ever now that admissions processes are changing and schools are going test-optional and removing diversity standards thanks to new Supreme Court rulings .  If you want certified expert help that really makes a difference, get started with  PrepScholar’s Essay Editing and Coaching program. Our program can help you put together an incredible essay from idea to completion so that your application stands out from the crowd. We've helped students get into the best colleges in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.  If you're ready to take the next step and boost your odds of getting into your dream school, connect with our experts today .

#2: Read Other Essays to Get Ideas for Your Own

As you go through the essays we've compiled for you above, ask yourself the following questions:

• Can you explain to yourself (or someone else!) why the opening sentence works well?
• Look for the essay's detailed personal anecdote. What senses is the author describing? Can you easily picture the scene in your mind's eye?
• Find the place where this anecdote bridges into a larger insight about the author. How does the essay connect the two? How does the anecdote work as an example of the author's characteristic, trait, or skill?
• Check out the essay's tone. If it's funny, can you find the places where the humor comes from? If it's sad and moving, can you find the imagery and description of feelings that make you moved? If it's serious, can you see how word choice adds to this tone?

Make a note whenever you find an essay or part of an essay that you think was particularly well-written, and think about what you like about it . Is it funny? Does it help you really get to know the writer? Does it show what makes the writer unique? Once you have your list, keep it next to you while writing your essay to remind yourself to try and use those same techniques in your own essay.

#3: Find Your "A-Ha!" Moment

All of these essays rely on connecting with the reader through a heartfelt, highly descriptive scene from the author's life. It can either be very dramatic (did you survive a plane crash?) or it can be completely mundane (did you finally beat your dad at Scrabble?). Either way, it should be personal and revealing about you, your personality, and the way you are now that you are entering the adult world.

Check out essays by authors like John Jeremiah Sullivan , Leslie Jamison , Hanif Abdurraqib , and Esmé Weijun Wang to get more examples of how to craft a compelling personal narrative.

#4: Start Early, Revise Often

Let me level with you: the best writing isn't writing at all. It's rewriting. And in order to have time to rewrite, you have to start way before the application deadline. My advice is to write your first draft at least two months before your applications are due.

Let it sit for a few days untouched. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and think critically about what you've written. What's extra? What's missing? What is in the wrong place? What doesn't make sense? Don't be afraid to take it apart and rearrange sections. Do this several times over, and your essay will be much better for it!

For more editing tips, check out a style guide like Dreyer's English or Eats, Shoots & Leaves .

What's Next?

Still not sure which colleges you want to apply to? Our experts will show you how to make a college list that will help you choose a college that's right for you.

Interested in learning more about college essays? Check out our detailed breakdown of exactly how personal statements work in an application , some suggestions on what to avoid when writing your essay , and our guide to writing about your extracurricular activities .

Working on the rest of your application? Read what admissions officers wish applicants knew before applying .

The recommendations in this post are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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Understanding your upbringing: How parenting behaviors are socially formed?

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Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

• To understand different methods of socialization and appropriately describe various types of parent-child interactions associated with those socialization methods.
• To compare and contrast the parenting behavior that the students (would) adopt as parents and the parenting behavior that they received as a child.
• To examine the extent and effects of the macro social forces on the micro level parenting behavior of an individual.

Goal Assessment(s):

• In the form of a short paper (or essay) analyzing their parent-child interactions, how appropriately students can identify and describe different methods of socialization as they were employed by their parent(s).
• In the form of a short paper (or essay) how appropriately students can identify variables involved in the two types of parenting behaviors that they compare.
• In the form of a short paper (or essay) how appropriately students can identify various macro factors affecting the type of parenting behavior an individual would adopt in his/her relationship with his/her child.

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Understanding Childhood Trauma Can Help Us Be More Resilient

I n 2022, the World Health Organization estimated that 1 billion children were maltreated each year around the globe. Maltreatment such as neglect and abuse are types of adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs . But they often say little about how children respond, which can either be traumatic or resilient. Now, revolutionary new findings in the sciences help us understand how different dimensions of adversity can leave different signatures of trauma and how we can use this knowledge to help children recover and build resilience against future harms.

Consider Ethan and Kevin (their names are pseudonyms to protect their privacy), two children that I worked with as an educator and researcher of trauma in schools. Ethan was abandoned by his mother at birth and placed in an orphanage in Eastern Europe, his home for the next six years. He was deprived of the fundamental needs of safety, nutrition, and human contact. He had books, but there was no one to read to him. He had caretakers, but they rarely comforted him when he was upset.

Kevin, on the other hand, witnessed his father physically and emotionally abusing his mother for the first ten years of his life. Around his sixth birthday, Kevin directly experienced his father's abuse. For entertainment, and to teach him that life is tough, Dad put Kevin and his older sister Joani into the outdoor dog cage, threw food in, and forced them to compete for their nightly dinner. If they refused, he beat them until they entered the dinner arena.

Ethan and Kevin were both traumatized by their maltreatment, but that doesn't capture what was happening inside of them. Ethan had no motivation, was numb to rewards, struggled with school and couldn't maintain social relationships. Kevin was an emotional maelstrom, frightened, hypervigilant, running away from unfamiliar men and hurting himself when he heard noises. Ethan and Kevin presented different traumatic responses or “signatures”—unique identifiers of the mental distortions created by their adverse experiences. Identifying these traumatic signatures enables caretakers, teachers, doctors, and counselors to sculpt a path to resilience that is specific to the child's harms and needs and gives them the best hope for recovery, whether in childhood or later in life.

Read More: How Traumatized Children See the World, According to Their Drawings

The idea of traumatic signatures is only a few years old , but the scientific evidence leading to it is not. We have known for decades that different environmental experiences shape development, including how and when our emotions, thoughts, and actions mature. When the environment is harsh and unpredictable, threatening survival, the timing of development tends to speed up, leading to individuals who mature quickly—recognizing and responding appropriately to danger as youngsters. In contrast, when the environment is impoverished, with individuals deprived of essential experiences and resources, development tends to slow down, resulting in delays in the attainment of independence, dedicated social roles, and sexual behavior.

Ethan and Kevin, like millions of other children, experienced two of the core types of ACEs — deprivation and abuse, respectively — during different time periods of development. These differences in experience shaped their traumatic signatures.

Deprivation is typified by a delay in the development of the brain’s executive functions —attention, short-term working memory, self-regulation, and planning. The executive functions form the bedrock to all learning and decision-making, but they are also essential in supporting more specialized cognitive functions such as language, social thinking, math, music, and morality. Children with weak executive functions fare poorly in school, and are socially and physically unhealthy. Such was Ethan’s traumatic response.

Abuse is characterized by warp speed development of a nervous system that detects threats, accompanied by hypervigilance, emotional turbulence, and out of control behavior. The root cause is a hyperactive amygdala, a brain region that plays an essential role in emotional processing, and its connection to a frontal lobe region that controls our feelings, thoughts, and actions. This constellation of changes to the nervous system leaves the child in a heightened state of fear, either fleeing or fighting to cope with an unsafe world . Such was Kevin's traumatic response.

The signatures penned by these types of adversity are further modified by their timing. In studies of orphans living in austere, institutionalized settings — such as the orphanage that Ethan grew up in—those deprived of essential experiences for more than the first few years of life showed deficits in executive functioning, social relationships, and attachment. In contrast, orphans who were placed in foster care by their second birthday, largely recovered from their deprivation in the years that followed. Children who are abused earlier in life , typically before puberty—such as Kevin—show greater emotional dysregulation, weaker control over their thoughts and actions, and more rapid biological aging.

Read More: How Childhood Trauma Can Cause Premature Aging

Different types of adversity, including different combinations, pen different signatures. But ultimately, they also define how we help children recover and sculpt their resilience. Each child's genetic architecture positions them somewhere on a spectrum of responses to adversity that runs from vulnerable to resilient . Those who land on the resilient end are handed greater immunity to adversity because of stronger executive functions that tamp down emotions and maintain focused attention. Those who land on the vulnerable end are handed greater sensitivity to adversity, dominated by emotional turbulence and inflamed autoimmune systems that heighten illness . Environmental experiences can displace individuals onto different sections of this spectrum, either enhancing their resilience or magnifying their vulnerability.

At age six, Ethan's tenure of deprivation ended and a rich life of loving care started with Julie, his adoring adoptive mother. At age 10, Kevin's father was incarcerated and his parents divorced, thereby ending his tenure of exposure to abuse and starting a more promising life with his mother Kate who desperately tried to provide for him despite her own struggles with mental health. Ethan and Kevin were both on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) that documented their disabilities and guided the work carried out in their schools. Both of their schools were trauma-informed, meaning that they adhered to the 4Rs : r ealizing that traumatic experiences are common, r ecognizing that traumatic experiences are associated with specific symptoms or signatures, r esponding to a child's trauma by integrating knowledge of what happened with what can be done to help, and r esisting re-traumatizing both students and staff. Both schools were also aware of Ethan's and Kevin's life experiences and recognized that they would require different approaches for aiding recovery and building resilience.

Ethan, like other children who have been deprived of essential experiences in the early years of their lives, required an approach that reassured him of receiving unwavering, predictable care while providing strategies to enhance his ability to learn and develop healthy relationships. His care included access to a visual schedule that showed the timing of activities, including when meals and snacks were provided. Predictable access to meals and snacks, both at home and in school, rapidly helped reduce his obsession and hoarding of food. The unwavering support provided by Julie as well as the school staff, eventually melted away Ethan's distrust of others, enabling healthy relationships to grow. The visual schedule helped reduce the load on his short- term working memory, while helping him prepare and plan for transitions between activities. Stubbornly resistant to change, however, was Ethan’s capacity to associate or link actions with consequences. For Ethan, as for other children who have been severely deprived of experiences early in life, associative learning was heavily compromised, awaiting the addition of new tools to the trauma-informed toolkit.

Kevin’s signature of abuse was initially treated by a psychiatrist with Tenex—a medication for aggression, impulsivity, and hyperactivity—along with cognitive behavioral therapy to help him find alternative ways of thinking about and coping with his trauma. His teachers intervened further, providing him with frequent breaks to manage his frustration and burn off some energy. These approaches reduced Kevin’s outbursts and violent attacks on peers and staff, but he was still highly impulsive and fidgety. Kevin’s team decided to start him on neurofeedback , a method that enabled him to consciously modify the pattern of brain activation, shifting toward greater calm, focus, and control over his emotions. Eventually, Kevin developed good friends, healthy relationships with teachers, and an after-school job where he was learning to be a car mechanic. He also learned to trust other men, including me, one of his teachers, who deeply cared about him and cheered on his successes.

Ethan and Kevin walked off their landscapes of harm and onto paths of hope, equipped with skills to manage future adversity. Both lucked out with relatively resilient genetic architectures that were joined by nurturing environments, ones filled with people who cared for them. Many other children, perhaps the majority of the 1 billion who are maltreated each year, are less fortunate, more vulnerable by nature and nurture. While it is highly unlikely that we will ever flatten the landscape of harm, we can do far more to nurture recovery and build resilience if we recognize how traumatic signatures unfold—and how to create action plans to work through them.

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Childhood Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on childhood.

Childhood is the most fun and memorable time in anyone’s life. It’s the first stage of life which we enjoy in whatever way we like. Besides, this is the time that shapes up the future. The parents love and care for their children and the children to the same too. Moreover, it’s the golden period of life in which we can teach children everything.

Memories of Childhood

The memories of childhood ultimately become the life long memory which always brings a smile on our faces. Only the grownups know the real value of childhood because the children do not understand these things.

Moreover, Children’s have no worries, no stress, and they are free from the filth of worldly life. Also, when an individual collects memories of his/her childhood they give a delighted feeling.

Besides, bad memories haunt the person his entire life. Apart from this, as we grow we feel more attachment to our childhood and we want to get back those days but we can’t. That’s why many people say ‘time is neither a friend nor a foe’. Because the time which is gone can’t come back and neither do our childhood. It is a time which many poets and writer praises in their creations.

Importance of Childhood

For children, it has no importance but if you ask an adult it is very important. Moreover, it a time when the moral and social character of the children develop. In this stage of life, we can easily remodel the mindset of someone.

Also, it is very important to understand that the mindset of children can be easily altered in this time. So, we have to keep a close eye on our children.

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What Should You Do in Childhood?

In childhood, one should need to enjoy his/her life without any worry. It is a time in which one should have to take care of his diet, his health, and immunity. Besides, the children should be taught to be neat and clean, to eat, read, sleep, play, and to do exercise regularly and these things should be in the habits of the child.

Moreover, we should try to influence children to start productive habits such as reading, writing that should help them in later life. But the books they read and what they write should be carefully checked by the parents.

Care for Everyone

Children are like buds, they care for everyone equally without any discrimination. Also, they are of helpful nature and help everyone around them.

Moreover, they teach everyone the lesson of humanity that they have forgotten in this hectic lifestyle of this world. Besides, these children are the future of the country and if they do not grow properly then in future how can they help in the growth of the nation .

In conclusion, we can say that childhood is the time that makes our adulthood special. Also, children’s are like pottery vessels whom you can shape in any way you like. Besides, this their innocence and helpful nature gives everyone the message of humanity.

Most importantly, they learn by either making mistakes or seeing their elders.

FAQs about Childhood

Q.1 Why childhood is the best period of life? A.1 It is the best time of life because the memories that we make in our childhood always brings a smile on our face. Also, it is the time when the character of the child is shaped. Besides, it also is the best time to understand life and gain knowledge.

Q.2 What is the most important characteristics of a child? A.2 According to me, the most important characteristics of a child is his innocence and helpful nature.

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Essay on Childhood | 500+ Words Long

Childhood is a magical and transformative phase in a person’s life, filled with innocence, curiosity, and wonder. It is a time when we learn, grow, and lay the foundation for the future. In this essay, I will argue for the importance of childhood, a period that plays a fundamental role in shaping who we become as individuals. By exploring the significance of childhood, its impact on development, and the value of preserving its essence, I hope to convey why this phase of life deserves our utmost attention and care.

A Time of Learning and Discovery

Childhood is an extraordinary time when learning and discovery are at their peak. Young minds are like sponges, soaking up knowledge and experiences that will stay with them throughout their lives. In this stage, children acquire essential skills, from reading and writing to problem-solving and critical thinking. They explore the world around them, asking questions, and seeking answers, which sets the stage for a lifetime of curiosity and learning.

Emotional Development

Emotional development is a crucial aspect of childhood. During these formative years, children learn to understand and manage their emotions. They develop empathy, compassion, and the ability to form meaningful relationships with others. These emotional skills are vital for building strong connections with family, friends, and the wider community. Childhood provides the foundation for developing emotional intelligence that serves individuals throughout their lives.

Imagination and Creativity

Childhood is a time when imagination and creativity flourish. Children engage in imaginative play, inventing worlds, and scenarios that foster creativity. This creativity is not only enjoyable but also essential for problem-solving and innovation in the future. Encouraging and nurturing a child’s creativity during this phase can lead to a more innovative and imaginative adulthood.

Physical Health and Well-Being

Childhood is a period when physical health and well-being are of paramount importance. It is during these years that lifelong habits related to nutrition, exercise, and self-care are established. Encouraging healthy habits in childhood can significantly impact an individual’s long-term health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood. Thus, childhood serves as a foundation for a healthy and active life.

Formation of Values and Ethics

Values and ethics are instilled during childhood. It is during this time that children develop a sense of right and wrong, guided by the values imparted by their families and communities. The moral compass formed in childhood influences an individual’s decision-making and behavior throughout life. Therefore, a nurturing and value-based upbringing during childhood is essential for fostering ethical individuals and responsible citizens.

Preserving Play and Fun

Childhood is synonymous with play and fun. It is a time when laughter, games, and adventures are an integral part of daily life. These playful experiences contribute to the emotional well-being of children, reducing stress and fostering happiness. Preserving the element of play in childhood allows children to develop social skills, resilience, and a love for exploration that will benefit them as adults.

Challenges Faced in Modern Childhood

While childhood is indeed a precious and transformative phase, it is not without its challenges in the modern world. Children today often face the pressures of academic performance, social media, and technology. Balancing these challenges with the need for unstructured play, creativity, and emotional development is a critical aspect of modern childhood.

Conclusion of Essay on Childhood

In conclusion, childhood is a treasured and vital phase of life that significantly shapes our future. It is a time of learning, emotional development, imagination, and physical health. The values and ethics instilled during childhood guide our behavior and decision-making throughout life. Preserving the elements of play and fun in childhood is essential for overall well-being. As we navigate the challenges of the modern world, it is crucial to prioritize and protect the essence of childhood. Childhood is not just a fleeting moment; it is a formative journey that deserves our utmost care and attention. By cherishing and nurturing childhood, we pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future for generations to come.

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The Power of Reading: Encouraging a Love of Books and Literacy in Children

Every parent should know the power of reading and should encourage it in their children. As parents and caregivers, we all want our children to succeed and reach their full potential. One of the most important ways we can support our children’s growth and development is by fostering a love of reading and promoting literacy.

Reading has the power to transform lives, opening up new worlds of knowledge, imagination, and creativity. It can improve children’s language skills, vocabulary, and critical thinking abilities. And it can provide a source of comfort and escape during difficult times.

So, if you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, or anyone who cares about children’s development, I invite you to join me on this journey of discovering the power of reading and how we can inspire the next generation of readers.

The Benefits of Reading for Children

• Improved vocabulary: Reading exposes children to a wide range of words and language patterns, which can help them develop a more extensive vocabulary.
• Enhanced language skills: Reading helps children develop important language skills like grammar, syntax, and comprehension, which are essential for effective communication.
• Better cognitive development: Reading stimulates the brain and can help children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.
• Increased empathy: Reading about different characters and their experiences can help children develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
• Improved academic performance: Children who read regularly tend to perform better in school, as reading can help improve their comprehension and writing skills.
• Increased imagination: Reading can spark children’s imaginations and encourage them to think creatively, which can help them in many areas of their lives.
• Reduced stress: Reading is a great way for children to relax and unwind, which can be especially helpful during times of stress or anxiety.
• Better sleep: Reading can help children relax and fall asleep more easily, which can lead to better overall sleep quality.
• Increased knowledge: Reading exposes children to new ideas, concepts, and information, which can help broaden their understanding of the world.
• A lifelong love of learning: Developing a love of reading at a young age can help instill a lifelong love of learning and a curiosity about the world.

tips for encouraging children to read

• Set aside designated reading time: Create a consistent daily or weekly schedule for reading time. Encourage your child to read during this time, and make it clear that reading is a priority.
• Read together as a family: Make reading a shared activity by reading together as a family. Choose books that everyone can enjoy and take turns reading aloud.
• Provide a variety of reading materials: Offer a diverse selection of reading materials, including fiction and non-fiction books, magazines, comics, and e-books. Let your child choose what they want to read.
• Make reading fun: Encourage your child to read by making it fun. Use silly voices, act out scenes from the book, or create related crafts or activities.
• Visit the library: Take your child to the library to choose books they’re interested in. Many libraries offer special programs and events for children that can also help encourage a love of reading.

Here is a Book recommendation

roles that parents and caregivers play in promoting literacy

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in promoting literacy and a love of reading in children. They have the power to inspire a lifelong love of learning and creativity in their children through positive reading experiences. One of the most effective ways parents and caregivers can promote literacy is by modeling good reading habits themselves. Reading in front of children and discussing what you’ve read with them can help them see reading as an enjoyable and worthwhile activity.

Creating a positive reading environment at home, such as setting aside a designated reading area and providing a variety of reading materials, can also help foster a love of reading in children. By taking an active role in their children’s reading development, parents and caregivers can help set them on the path to academic and personal success.

When my niece was five years old, she struggled with reading and showed little interest in books. I was worried that she would fall behind her peers and miss out on the benefits of reading. One day, I decided to take her to a local bookstore and let her pick out a book of her own. To my surprise, she chose a book about bugs and was immediately captivated by the colorful illustrations and interesting facts.

From that moment on, she couldn’t get enough books about bugs and animals, and her reading skills improved dramatically as a result. I learned that by letting her choose her own books and follow her interests, I was able to spark a love of reading that has lasted to this day. So, my advice to parents and caregivers is to pay attention to your child’s interests and let them choose their own books. You never know what might inspire a love of reading.

The Impact of Reading on Children’s Future Success

• Improved academic performance: Children who read regularly tend to perform better academically than those who don’t. Reading helps children develop vocabulary, language skills, and critical thinking abilities that are essential for success in school.
• Increased creativity: Reading exposes children to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences, which can spark their creativity and imagination. Children who read regularly are more likely to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to problems.
• Better communication skills: Reading helps children develop strong communication skills, including speaking, listening, and writing. Children who read regularly are better able to express themselves and communicate effectively with others.
• Improved empathy and social skills: Reading helps children develop empathy and social skills by exposing them to different cultures, viewpoints, and experiences. Children who read regularly are more likely to be compassionate, understanding, and respectful of others.
• Higher earning potential: Studies have shown that individuals with strong reading and literacy skills tend to earn higher salaries and have better job opportunities than those with weaker skills. Reading is an essential skill for success in many industries, from business to healthcare to technology.
• Better mental health: Reading can have a positive impact on children’s mental health by reducing stress, improving focus and concentration, and promoting relaxation. Children who read regularly are more likely to have good mental health and well-being.

In conclusion, the power of reading is a remarkable force that can have a profound impact on children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, as well as their future success. By encouraging a love of books and literacy in children, we can help them unlock a world of knowledge, inspiration, and imagination that can enrich their lives in countless ways. From improved academic performance and communication skills to increased empathy and creativity, reading has the power to shape children into confident, well-rounded individuals who are equipped to succeed in today’s world. As parents, caregivers, and educators, it is our responsibility to promote a positive reading environment and help children develop a lifelong love of reading. So let’s make reading a priority, and give our children the gift of the power of reading!

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Assess the ideal circumstances for a child to grow up in.

Model essay.

I. Introduction

• Briefly introduce the topic of the ideal circumstances for a child to grow up in.
• State the thesis statement outlining the key elements of an ideal upbringing for a child.

II. Safe and Nurturing Environment

• Discuss the importance of a safe and nurturing home environment for a child’s well-being.
• Explore the role of parents, caregivers, and family members in creating a supportive atmosphere.
• Highlight the significance of providing emotional support, stability, and unconditional love.

III. Access to Quality Education

• Explain the impact of early childhood education on a child’s cognitive and intellectual development.
• Discuss the importance of providing access to quality schools and educational resources.
• Address the role of teachers and educators in fostering a child’s learning and curiosity.

IV. Positive Role Models

• Analyze the influence of positive role models on a child’s moral and ethical development.
• Discuss the significance of parental role modeling and the importance of mentors in a child’s life.
• Explain how exposure to diverse role models can broaden a child’s perspective.

V. Opportunities for Personal Development

• Explore the significance of extracurricular activities, hobbies, and interests in personal growth.
• Discuss the role of sports, arts, and other activities in building confidence and teamwork skills.
• Address the importance of providing opportunities for exploration and self-discovery.

VI. Supportive Social Environment

• Examine the impact of a child’s social environment, including friendships and peer relationships.
• Discuss the importance of a sense of community and belonging for a child’s emotional development.
• Address the role of schools, community organizations, and society in fostering social connections.

VII. Balancing Freedom and Discipline

• Analyze the importance of setting boundaries and providing age-appropriate discipline.
• Discuss the significance of allowing children to explore and make mistakes to learn and grow.
• Address the balance between freedom and guidance to foster independence and responsibility.

VIII. Conclusion

• Summarize the key points discussed in the essay regarding the ideal circumstances for a child to grow up in.
• Reinforce the significance of a nurturing and supportive environment in shaping a child’s future development and well-being.

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Introduction

Every child deserves the best possible start in life to reach their full potential. The circumstances in which a child grows up significantly impact their development and well-being. The ideal environment for a child to flourish involves a nurturing and supportive atmosphere that encompasses love, security, education, positive role models, and opportunities for personal development. In this essay, we will explore these essential elements in detail and highlight their significant impact on a child’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth.

Safe and Nurturing Environment

A safe and nurturing environment is the cornerstone of a child’s upbringing. A loving and secure home provides a foundation for emotional well-being. Children thrive when they feel safe and protected, allowing them to develop trust and form healthy attachments to their caregivers. In such an environment, children are more likely to explore their surroundings, learn effectively, and develop a positive sense of self. Research has shown that children raised in nurturing environments are better equipped to handle stress and have healthier relationships later in life.

Moreover, the role of parents, caregivers, and family members in creating a supportive atmosphere cannot be overstated. Parents play a vital role in a child’s development through their affection, attention, and responsiveness to their needs. Close parent-child bonds positively impact a child’s emotional intelligence and contribute to their overall well-being. For example, a study conducted by Bowlby and Ainsworth in the 1970s found that secure attachment to parents fosters healthy emotional and social development.

Access to Quality Education

In addition to a nurturing home, access to quality education is paramount for a child’s cognitive and intellectual growth. Early childhood education plays a crucial role in laying the foundation for lifelong learning. Children who receive early education are more likely to perform well academically, have higher graduation rates, and develop a love for learning. For instance, a study conducted by the HighScope Educational Research Foundation found that children enrolled in a high-quality preschool program displayed higher levels of cognitive and social skills.

Furthermore, the importance of providing access to quality schools and educational resources cannot be underestimated. Well-equipped schools with dedicated teachers can significantly impact a child’s academic success. A positive and stimulating learning environment fosters curiosity and critical thinking skills, allowing children to explore their interests and talents. Singapore, for example, has invested heavily in its education system, resulting in consistently high global rankings in academic performance.

Positive Role Models

Positive role models also play a vital role in a child’s moral and ethical development. Parents, teachers, mentors, and community leaders serve as examples for children to emulate. Observing and interacting with positive role models help shape a child’s values, beliefs, and behavior. For instance, a study conducted by Bandura in 1961 demonstrated that children who witnessed altruistic behavior were more likely to display similar behaviors themselves.

Parental role modeling is especially influential in a child’s life. Children often imitate their parents’ behaviors, whether positive or negative. Parents who display empathy, honesty, and respect towards others instill these values in their children, contributing to the formation of their character. However, negative role models or exposure to inappropriate content can have adverse effects on a child’s development. In addition, the significance of mentors and other influential figures in a child’s life cannot be overlooked. Teachers, coaches, and community leaders who support and encourage children’s interests and ambitions can have a profound impact on their self-esteem and motivation. Many successful individuals credit their mentors for helping them overcome challenges and pursue their passions.

Opportunities for Personal Development

Moreover, providing opportunities for personal development is essential in helping children discover their strengths and interests. Extracurricular activities, hobbies, and interests outside of academics play a vital role in nurturing a child’s talents and passions. Engaging in sports, arts, or other activities allows children to build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and learn valuable life lessons. For example, participating in team sports teaches children the importance of cooperation, discipline, and perseverance. Similarly, engaging in artistic pursuits such as painting, dancing, or playing a musical instrument allows children to express themselves creatively and boosts their self-esteem. Singapore offers a range of extracurricular activities, from sports clubs to art schools, providing ample opportunities for children to explore their interests.

Supportive Social Environment

Furthermore, a supportive social environment contributes to a child’s emotional and social development. The friendships and peer relationships formed during childhood can significantly impact a child’s sense of belonging and self-worth. A strong sense of community and support from neighbors and society at large foster positive social connections. Studies have shown that social support is crucial for psychological well-being and resilience in the face of adversity. In Singapore, for example, community initiatives and organizations provide various avenues for children to build social connections. Community centers, youth clubs, and neighborhood gatherings allow children to engage with their peers and develop friendships.

Balancing Freedom and Discipline

Balancing freedom and discipline is a delicate aspect of an ideal upbringing. Children need boundaries and guidance to understand societal norms and develop responsible behavior. However, they also require the freedom to explore, learn from mistakes, and make choices that support their personal growth. Setting age-appropriate rules and providing explanations for them is essential in helping children understand the reasons behind discipline. Authoritative parenting, which combines warmth and emotional support with clear rules and expectations, has been found to be most effective in promoting positive outcomes in children. At the same time, allowing children some freedom to explore their interests and make decisions encourages independence and autonomy. Allowing them to learn from their experiences builds resilience and decision-making skills, preparing them for adulthood.

In conclusion, the ideal circumstances for a child to grow up in encompass a nurturing and supportive environment that provides love, security, education, positive role models, and opportunities for personal development. A safe and nurturing home environment lays the foundation for emotional well-being and fosters healthy attachments. Quality education and access to resources equip children with essential cognitive and intellectual skills. Positive role models, both within the family and in the community, shape a child’s moral and ethical development. Opportunities for personal development, such as extracurricular activities, allow children to explore their interests and build confidence. Moreover, a supportive social environment contributes to emotional well-being and social connections. Finally, balancing freedom and discipline helps children learn responsibility and decision-making skills. By providing these ideal circumstances, we can ensure that children are well-prepared to flourish and reach their full potential in life.

Word Count : 1050

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