A Book for My Only Son

Author: Takahashi Fumio
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: Analyzing the Advantages of an Only Child
There are quite a few advantages of being an only child. Here are some summarized points:
First, a carefree and joyful growth process. As mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, there's Doraemon's Nobita. I believe the meaning of "Nobita" isn't just "free and easy," but rather "carefree and joyful." Since they can enjoy their parents' love entirely to themselves, only children grow up in a relaxed and happy environment. Children who are nurtured with love are unlikely to stray. Surveys on the reasons for delinquency among troubled youth show that while there's no direct correlation, it ultimately stems from a hunger for love. What is the opposite of "love"? Dislike? That's the opposite of "liking." Actually, I'm not entirely sure about the correct answer, but personally, I think it should be "neglect." When people feel neglected, they feel unloved. "I scold you harshly precisely because I love you! If I didn't love you, none of it would matter to me, no matter how you turn out!" I believe this is the truth. Those who speed on motorcycles at night, those with tea-colored hair, and those who always bully others—they are shouting from the bottom of their hearts, "I'm here!" Isn't this the voice of children who feel neglected? Therefore, only children who are adored by everyone are unlikely to stray or become corrupted. They also tend to be gentle with others.
Second, without siblings for comparison, only children can fully develop their talents. At home, only children are always the only one, so the evaluations they receive are naturally the highest. As a result, only children don't have a competitive mindset and can learn and do things in a calm, natural way. Whether it's learning or doing other things, everyone's situation is different. It's impossible for everyone to grow at the same pace. Some children are more understanding, while others are less so. However, why do children's grades improve after joining study groups? It's because they spend more time studying. But the most important reason is individualized instruction, or teaching based on each child's unique needs. For children with poor memory, if they don't understand something, it should be explained thoroughly until they do. Therefore, there's no better way to improve a child's grades than hiring a private tutor. That's what true individualized instruction truly means. The purpose of school is to teach a set curriculum within a specified time. Therefore, whether knowledge is fully grasped is actually secondary. The growth process of only children is similar to that of children who attend study groups or have private tutors—they don't need to focus on other individuals as siblings, and they can grow carefree and naturally.
Third, only children don't do bad things or lie. This is because only children are always under their parents' supervision, so they wouldn't even think about lying. However, brothers and sisters...