As I begin to think about the turkey and dressing, I began to wonder about the number of families who really do prefer pumpkin over sweet potato pie and how many have a designated kids’ tables their Thanksgiving gatherings.
The Kids Table
The kids table is where the children are assigned to eat. Usually, the linens, best china, silverware, and stemware are absent. The place setting are paper, plastic, and styrofoam.
The existence of the Kids’ tables may be justified as children are developing their small motor skills. During that development time, they are better at handling styrofoam cups as opposed to the waterford steamware. But in many situations, the beliefs we hold and how we act based on age are not warranted.
Limiting Beliefs on Age
Ageism is the ideas, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that are biased against persons or groups because of their older age.
Adult-centrism is exaggerate egocentrism of adults; the adult perspective is inherently right or better. So the opinions of those who are not adults or are young adults are not valued.
We live in an ageist and adult-centric society. If you want to test you implicit bias on ageism, check out the Harvard Implicit Association Test. Find out if you associate old with strong or feeble. If you want to know how adult-centric you are, ask someone in your household under 25 years old.
Here are some terms to avoid when describing young and older adults:
Kid
New kid
Whipper Snappers
Wet behind the ears
Baby accountants, Baby accountants, Baby….
Oldster
Over the hill
Geezer
Bag lady
Silver tsunami
Senior moment
We say that age is nothing but a number. Bu if we ignore or devalue someone’s opinion because of age, make assumptions about a person’s capabilities or knowledge based on age, we are condemning and judging a person because of their age. Even when we are well intentioned, we can still be hurtful. Isn’t time for us to check our blindspot and question our beliefs, assumptions, and actions?
Let’s rethink the kids table this year and consider having sweet potato and pumpkin pie. There can never be too much pie.
Inspiring Minds 