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Allowing Children to Make Their Own Choices on Everyday Matters - IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay


Allowing Children to Make Their Own Choices on Everyday Matters - IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay

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Sample Essay 1

Allowing children to make their own choices on daily matters sparks debate, with some arguing that it promotes self-centeredness, while others see it as essential for developing independence and responsibility. In my view, although some autonomy is valuable, excessive freedom without guidance risks fostering selfish behavior. This essay will discuss how unrestricted choices can lead to self-interest, while structured guidance in decision-making can cultivate balanced, socially responsible individuals.


Those who oppose unrestricted choice-making for children argue that it can lead to selfish and impulsive behavior. When children make their own choices without consistent limits, they may become accustomed to prioritizing their own desires, potentially resulting in adults who lack consideration for others. For example, a child allowed to choose their own entertainment options may consistently opt for activities that provide instant gratification, like video games, without understanding the value of shared or constructive play. This continual focus on personal preference can, over time, diminish their awareness of others’ needs, cultivating a society where individuals prioritize self-interest. Thus, unrestricted decision-making in everyday matters may foster self-centered attitudes that could harm social cohesion in the long run.


On the other hand, many believe that giving children the freedom to make decisions helps build independence, responsibility, and critical thinking. Allowing children to choose within appropriate boundaries teaches them to assess options and understand consequences. For instance, a child who is permitted to choose between two nutritious meal options or select clothing that suits the weather learns to weigh their choices and consider practicality. These decision-making opportunities foster self-confidence and encourage them to take ownership of their choices, preparing them for responsible adulthood. Supporters of this view argue that, when supervised effectively, decision-making empowers children to become balanced individuals who can make thoughtful choices while respecting societal norms. Therefore, allowing children some decision-making capacity within structured limits plays a vital role in their development.


In conclusion, while unrestricted choice-making might encourage self-centered behavior, structured guidance in decision-making fosters responsibility and independence. By balancing freedom with guidance, children can develop critical life skills, ensuring they grow into socially aware and responsible adults, benefiting both themselves and society.


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Sample Essay 2

Allowing children to make their own choices in daily matters, such as selecting food, clothing, or entertainment, raises the debate on whether this fosters selfishness or essential decision-making skills. While some argue this freedom might encourage self-centeredness, others believe that it cultivates autonomy and responsibility in young individuals. This essay will discuss both perspectives and argue that decision-making opportunities are fundamental for children’s development into well-rounded adults.


On one hand, allowing children to make frequent choices may instill a sense of entitlement, leading them to prioritize personal desires over communal interests. This freedom, particularly in the absence of guidance, could foster impulsive behaviors and an overemphasis on self-gratification. For instance, a child consistently allowed to choose their own meals may avoid nutritious options in favor of indulgent treats, learning to value immediate satisfaction. Moreover, this approach can make them accustomed to having their preferences accommodated, potentially resulting in adults who struggle to consider others’ perspectives. Thus, in this view, unrestricted choice-making may cultivate a society less attuned to collective needs and more focused on personal gains.


Conversely, involving children in decision-making can teach them responsibility, self-regulation, and a better understanding of consequences, crucial attributes for navigating adulthood. When children are empowered to make appropriate choices, they learn to weigh options, assess outcomes, and accept accountability for their decisions. For instance, a child allowed to choose their weekend activities learns to balance fun with responsibilities, fostering critical thinking and priority-setting skills. Additionally, making decisions in a controlled environment encourages children to express their individuality while respecting boundaries, thereby nurturing a balanced sense of independence. Consequently, this perspective suggests that decision-making skills acquired during childhood form the foundation of responsible adulthood.


In conclusion, while there are concerns that freedom of choice may lead to selfish tendencies in children, it is more likely that such autonomy fosters critical life skills. Children who learn to make decisions with guidance are likely to grow into thoughtful, responsible adults, capable of balancing personal and societal needs effectively.


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Sample Essay 3

The debate on allowing children to make daily choices, such as food or clothing, involves contrasting views on autonomy's impact on character. Some argue this freedom could foster self-centeredness, while others see it as essential for cultivating responsibility. In my view, although limited decision-making builds confidence, excessive autonomy risks encouraging self-interest. This essay will discuss the potential for autonomy to encourage self-interest, followed by an argument for the role of guided decision-making in fostering balanced maturity.


Those who argue in favor of allowing children to make frequent choices believe it empowers them to understand their preferences and develop self-confidence. When children are allowed to make choices, they can explore their likes and dislikes, creating a sense of personal identity. For instance, letting a child select their clothing fosters a sense of independence and teaches them the value of self-expression. However, critics of this approach warn that, without moderation, this unrestricted choice may create a pattern of prioritizing personal desires over shared responsibilities. Children accustomed to focusing solely on their own preferences may struggle to understand or appreciate the concept of compromise. Thus, while autonomy has merits, unbounded choice risks instilling a self-centered mindset in young people.


Conversely, those who support a guided approach argue that children benefit most when their decision-making is monitored and directed toward constructive outcomes. When boundaries are set, children learn the importance of making thoughtful choices within realistic limits. For example, allowing a child to choose between reading or a creative activity, rather than unrestricted entertainment options, encourages them to value meaningful pursuits over impulsive gratification. This structured freedom not only builds responsibility but also develops their ability to navigate choices thoughtfully. Proponents of this view argue that children raised with guided choices learn to balance their preferences with consideration for others, fostering emotional intelligence and empathy. Consequently, structured autonomy lays a foundation for children to mature as socially responsible individuals who understand the value of collective harmony.


In conclusion, while providing children with unbounded freedom to make daily choices can foster independence, it risks promoting self-centeredness. Structured guidance in decision-making, by contrast, encourages a balance of autonomy and responsibility. This balanced approach is essential for nurturing individuals who are both self-assured and socially considerate.


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