A Catholic elementary school in Rhode Island has banned all students from talking during lunch after three recent incidents of choking in the cafeteria. The incidents were serious , say official at St. Rose of Lima School, but a silent lunch will ensure that teachers can henceforth identify a choking child in time to administer the Heimlich maneuver. Parent Chrsitine Lamoureux thinks the school is overreacting. The students "are silent all day," said Lamoureux. "They have to get some type of release."
I've been surprised by people's response to this story. Some people think it sounds like a practice from the times of orphan chimney sweeps and public execution of minors. Others respond with, "My kid's school has a silent lunch too. It's great!"
My opinion? I don't have a problem with silent lunch per se. It could be relaxing and peaceful, as long as the kids have other opportunities to blow off some steam, get a little exercise, socialize, etc. I think silent lunch could be fine if it was administered with friendly, non-controlling, even humorous spirit. However, in this particular situation, it's kind of like wearing a snow suit at the beach to prevent sunburn. How about teaching kids good manners, for example: not talking with your mouth full and chewing your food before swallowing? There's something to be said for natural and logical consequences.
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