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  Greg Schneider May 27, 2008 at 2:20pm

  I agree -- their education is of utmost importance. I was assuming that the children were still getting an education, be it home schooling, if necessary. I never cease to be amazed how some individuals are called into such situations and are able to serve with incredible grace.
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  Frances Shani Parker May 27, 2008 at 2:17pm

  Service-learning, a teaching and learning approach that connects classroom learning with meeting community needs, is a beneficial method for integrating lessons of compassion and service into a school curriculum. Children can also volunteer and perform community service. These are all ways of building character and lifelong service habits in children without interfering with their schooling. Of course, service at home, "reminiscent of the more integrated family unit of the past" is also commendable under appropriate circumstances.
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  Frances Shani Parker May 27, 2008 at 10:02am

  Greg, I understand and agree with the lessons these children can learn about compassion. I don't know which result is predominant. But as a former school principal, I am concerned about these children missing school and after-school activities that can enhance their educational and socialization skills. Education is an entitlement for every child.
  For many of these children, attendance at school is a very real way for the whole family to improve. Poor attendance can often cause children to fall behind. Trying to catch up becomes an additional burden for them. Some never catch up. The families may be doing the best they can under the circumstances. More options are needed that support these kinds of situations.
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  Greg Schneider May 27, 2008 at 8:36am

  While these children "often miss experiences that most children take for granted", they also gain valuable experience and insights about compassion that most children are never exposed to. It would be interesting to know how their lives are affected in the long term. It is heartwarming to know that some of these children openly accept these responsibilities...reminiscent of the more integrated family unit of the past. I'm sure there are other children who are overwhlemed by the responsibility and their lives are affected in a negative way. Do you have any idea whether the predominant result is the former or the latter?