If children are not given the opportunity to explore the thrill and the dangers of fire, then how can they develop any concept of its potential danger? I don't know a single child, or adult for that matter, who is not fascinated by fire. It was the control of fire that set our early ancestors apart from other species; it provides light, warmth, colour and it tantalises the imagination, and yes, it can be dangerous - but so can water, stairs, stinging nettles, cotton wool and bubble wrap, but we certainly wouldn't go out of our way to stop children engaging with them.
Noisy children! There's a concept. Does anyone know a child who isn't? That is what children do and have always done - vocalise their enjoyment during play. They should not be told to move on or kept in captivity because it is an annoyance to some adult, or sent to some location specially 'designed for being noisy'. We would not expect it of adults who by some peculiar status called 'adulthood' are granted complete freedom to go where they like and vocalise in whatever fashion or volume they see fit. So why expect it of children?
It is high time that society recognises that children deserve the same dignity, appreciation and sense of equality that is so readily afforded to adults. That is why we have the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. I suggest these two letter writers either read and digest a copy, or consider a change of career.
Philip Waters Liskeard, Cornwall
