It's a very different world for my teens than it was for me; I was a teenager in the eighties. For the most part, I think kids want curfews and rules set by their parents or guardians. It gives them a sense of security, knowing someone cares for them.
Curfews aren't just set to control a child; they are set for their safety as well. Many towns and cities have a curfew to teenagers under the age of 17. Our town does, if under 17, unless they are with a parent or guardian, they must be home by 11:00 P.M. Why would a parent or guardian want their child running the streets past midnight? Unfortunately, many don't care; if their child is out of their hair, then they can do what they want.
Children who grow up with curfews and rules set by parents, tend to grow up to be much more responsible. They do better in school, and usually go on to college or into the workforce. They don't come to class tired from not enough sleep, or skip class because they couldn't get up. Children want rules. They want to know that someone cares for them.
My grandmother once said, “There's no reason to be out past midnight, you'll just be looking for trouble.” When I was young I didn't really understand what that meant. But as I grew up and became an adult then a parent, I understood exactly what it meant. Most people are in bed past midnight. I wouldn't want my kid wandering around trying to find something to do.
Yes, I feel children and teens should have a curfew. I think it's up to the parent or guardian to set this curfew and stick to it. I also believe that each child is different and that one child may have a later curfew than another. It all depends on the child and their age and their behavior. I also believe there can be exceptions too. In the long run, it will teach the children respect; not only to the parent, but to the law and to rules.
