Skip to content

I keep thinking, we teach children to use language to…

“I keep thinking, we teach children to use language to solve their disputes. We teach them not to hit and fight and bite. Then look what adults do!” quote by Naomi Shihab Nye
Download Open image
“I keep thinking, we teach children to use language to solve their disputes. We teach them not to hit and fight and bite. Then look what adults do!”

Naomi Shihab Nye

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Children are taught to resolve conflicts with words, yet adults often resort to violence, highlighting a societal inconsistency.

In simple terms: Kids learn peace, adults act violently.

Key Takeaway

Model non‑violent conflict resolution.

Themes

conflict resolution education role modeling

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

ethical educational

When to use this quote

  • family discussions
  • school curricula
  • community mediation
  • parenting workshops

Key Concepts

peaceful communication social learning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we bridge the gap between taught values and adult behavior?
  • What systems reinforce adult aggression?
A Different Perspective

Adults may lack the patience to apply taught principles.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Naomi Shihab Nye

Explore all 115 Naomi Shihab Nye quotes

More Adult quotes

Browse all 1,153 Adult quotes