Raising and Showing Livestock Teach Responsibility

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Raising and Showing Livestock Teach Responsibility
Introduction
As is apparent, everyone wants their children and even siblings to have the ability to make rational decisions whenever they are faced with tough choices. The ability to make choices is not simply associated with taking care of one’s self. Rather, it is the ability to make a decision that affects other people and beings. Growing up as a child, this is the best stage in life where the element of responsibility can be instilled as part of the personality and discipline processes. There are quite a number of ways, to help children develop the sense of responsibility in their lives and one of the main ones is through showing and raising livestock (Fisher, Tyrone L.). There is a sense of compassion that is associated with taking care of an animal. This is considering the element of care in this case is not associated with the expectation for feedback or any form of payback. It is simply a selfless act of taking care of the animals, where the child does not expect the animal to say thank you or simply return the favor ("Giving Kids Responsibility Through Livestock – Sure Champ"). There is also the element of organization and subtle decision making processes associated with taking care of an animal. The child will have to have taken care of themselves before they are able to take care of the animal. Showing the animals, is part of generating compassion for animals in the child, which can then be followed up with raising one.
Thesis statement: Raising and showing livestock to children helps them to develop the sense of responsibility, they carry into their adulthood.
Discipline
Every other parent wants to bring up a child who will have the sense of discipline that is required to make it in life. They will not be simply dependent for the rest of their lives but they will have the ability to maneuver through life obstacles making the right decisions and having the discipline to see through their choices (RFD-TV). When the child is given livestock chores they learn to commit to them even when there are no praises and presents associated with taking care of the animals. In some of the cases, all that matters is the sense of satisfaction which comes with the pride of taking care of an animal and the efforts involved ’ (Rusk, Clinton P. et al.). There is a sense of satisfaction associated with making effort towards a certain project, even when the payoff is delayed for months or years on end. The shear element of accomplishment in this case, comes from knowing that one put in great resources such as time and money. This in itself is a high level of discipline, where a child is able to take care of an animal with the commitment it requires.
Self-Esteem and Confidence
When the child is involved in chores around the home where they are taking care of livestock, they develop a sense of self-esteem. This is relative to the fact that, from their efforts they are able to believe in themselves (Fisher, Tyrone L.). Taking care of livestock is a not an easy task and requires the child to constantly make plans and execute them in the right and timely manner. It is aspects such as these, which then bring out the self-esteem in the child knowing they are able to take care of another being with little or assistance. Where they need assistance they are able to ask. This is a skill that not many children have, as they are used to being assisted (Bardot, Laura). As such, the child grows up with little to no confidence in their abilities. In a child that has been taking care of livestock there is a sense of ability, as they have tested their skills and have proven to themselves they are capable.
‘Fifty-one percent (76 of 149) of the respondents indicated their self-confidence had increased because of their involvement with 4-H animal projects. Some examples of the responses include: “Raising animals has really boosted my self-confidence.” “Since I started showing sheep and beef, my self-confidence has improved so much. I am no longer shy and love getting in front of people in the show ring.” “When I first began showing animals, I was very shy and lacked confidence in myself. After completing 10 years of showing livestock, however, I am the complete opposite without a doubt.” “My self-confidence level has increased greatly because I have learned that if I work hard I can accomplish my goal.” Twenty-one percent (16 of 76) of the respondents, who indicated they had gained self-confidence skills, said the improvement came as a result of caring for and having knowledge about their 4-H animal project.’ ’ (Rusk, Clinton P. et al.)
There is a subtle feeling associated with the level of confidence the children develop, when they understand that they can make their own choices. More importantly the level of confidence and self-esteem associated with knowing that one can make their choices with regard to their goals in life and achieve them (Moriak, Meredith). This is an aspect that crucial not just for the children but also for the adults. The ability to believe in one’s abilities is a key component of success in life regardless of the stage one is at.
Independence
Independence is not a skill that a parent can simply, instruct using the word of mouth. This has to be learnt and instilled through practical means. By giving the child chores such as livestock rearing they are given a chance to be independent in their choices and actions. Every other decision the child makes, they are better able to understand that they have consequences. As such, the sense of independence is better instilled. Children at various stages will always seek independence and in some of the cases will say that they need freedom (James and Dueker). There is no better way to teach a child, independence and/or freedom, t...