From an early age, children in Switzerland are taught to behave in a certain way. I am not sure if it is a form of politeness or a form of respect. But it is drilled in. Non negotiable and very expected.
Each day when the children, starting at kindergarten age, arrive at their school, they shake hands with their teacher, before entering the classroom. They line up, if there are a few children arriving at the same time.
As they shake hands with their teacher, they pause, focus and look their teacher straight into the eyes and say "Good Morning Mrs xx". She/He then replies " Good Morning xx.
Only when these pleasantries have been fully exchanged, are they able to proceed to take off their coats and shoes and go into class.
It is very civil and very cute actually.
It seems to instil a certain respect for elders and hierarchy and general nicety in society. And you do actually see this play out when the children are older. For example teens may be goofing around at a tram stop, being loud and brash, however when the tram stops, they would help a lady with a pram board.
Is there any other culture that does this so systematically with school kids?
This is amazing!! Tell more.. Very interesting indeed . I love this about the Swiss culture .. And wish we saw more of it in North America .
ReplyDeleteDecided . Shipping all 3 to you :)