Life as a Child

by Christy Ward
As I watch the children play around the piazza each evening, late into the night, I am struck by the way of life as a child in Cagli, as compared with children in the United States. Families in American can often begin the evening rituals of getting their children fed, bathed and settled into their beds in the early evenings. Many times I hear of families that have their children in bed by 7:00pm so that the parents can enjoy a relaxing evening to themselves. In other cases children even spend their time planted in front of a television as part of their nightly routine, in preparations for sleep.

In contrast, many families in Cagli bring their children to the piazza in the evening to spend time running about with one another; eating gelato; and enjoying friendly play with others in the community. Even teenagers can be found perched on the wall, socializing with others of their age group who are enjoying the bonding moments together. As I listen and watch I hear the sounds of playful chatter and giggles from happy children who are not spending time squabbling with one another. Chasing balls, riding bikes and running about is the highest priority of the evening ritual for these children.