Seth Godin said it best at our John Maxwell training in March.
“They want us all to follow the same rules because then they don’t have to worry about us.”
“The ones who don’t follow this “robot standard”, stand out, and then society only has to focus on those that are ‘broken'” or “not normal”
Something close to those lines for a quote. The first quote is accurate. The second is my attempt at writing his explanation. He was teaching us why it is important to be abnormal in our world today. He’s pretty awesome. Check his stuff out.
But – How spot on is he!
As a mom with children with sensory disorders, ADHD and such, I am equally frustrated that these tools are now being banned in schools unless our child has special permission.
Which in turn, singles children with special needs out. These kiddos already struggle with not fitting into the “robot standard” already. And thank goodness they don’t! I mean it. I really emphasize my children keeping their uniqueness. I am tired of being a robot myself. But these bans really do make it harder for these kids.
I feel that this tool is an example of the representation of what Seth talked about.
It doesn’t fit the “standard”. It causes “distractions” (because a child having a meltdown or tapping their pencils doesn’t right?!?) And the only way to control it is to make it even harder for the children who really need them – all so life can continue moving forward in an easy to control, “robot standard”. With rules that regulate what is not perceived as normal –
Still following me here?
This cycle is very frustrating.
I love the fidget toys. I love that kids are loving them. Please don’t think I am bashing anyone with them. I think they are really cool myself.
I am just frustrated with how society is reacting to this tool, and how they are trying to make it fit into a society that is focusing too much on controlling the masses.
…The End…