Who Will Teach the Children?

[DSTCHAOS]

Originally Posted by Professor

Education has been a determining factor for people of color. As a result, we have careers and steadily climbing incomes. Much like many of you, I’m proud of my educational and professional pursuits. However, this morning I had to have my oil changed. I drove my car to the local dealership and watched the guy spend ten minutes draining oil and then replenishing it. The fee was $45.00! It dawned on me that I know little about mechanics. I’ve never had the opportunity to learn to change oil which seemingly is very simple. My parents are professionals but I’m sure my father can change oil but he has never offered to teach me. To be honest, I don’t think he has changed oil in his vehicles within the last thirty years. Nonetheless, as I watched the mechanic I pondered who will continue to teach the things that all men should have some knowledge about like changing oil and tires, using a hammer and all the tools that every man once knew how to use. Who will teach me and who will teach the children?

Men aren't the only ones who need to be self-sufficient. Unless you're using "man/men" as male-centered language for people.

I admit I was tickled when I read your post. I think you're attributing not having been taught about cars to something larger. Positive parent-child interaction maybe? Well, if your parents spent time teaching you various things and passing general cultural capital to you (and perhaps wealth and their social networks), not being taught things like oil change is the least of your worries.

But busy parents plus different skills these parents have will result in children not being taught how to cut the hedges and so forth. And sometimes parents possess the time and skills but are generally disinterested. They figure you can pay someone to do those things like they pay someone. I know my educator parents taught us car and home maintenance stuff but I have the attention span of a puppy for such things.

[Professor]

Well stated - thank you for your insight!!!!!

Originally Posted by DSTCHAOS

Men aren't the only ones who need to be self-sufficient. Unless you're using "man/men" as male-centered language for people.

I admit I was tickled when I read your post. I think you're attributing not having been taught about cars to something larger. Positive parent-child interaction maybe? Well, if your parents spent time teaching you various things and passing general cultural capital to you (and perhaps wealth and their social networks), not being taught things like oil change is the least of your worries.

But busy parents plus different skills these parents have will result in children not being taught how to cut the hedges and so forth. And sometimes parents possess the time and skills but are generally disinterested. They figure you can pay someone to do those things like they pay someone. I know my educator parents taught us car and home maintenance stuff but I have the attention span of a puppy for such things.