Amish parents treat their children with deep respect and love. The children help with chores around the house and farm as soon as they are able to do so. Until they start school at the age of six, most Amish children speak little English. Most attend parochial schools. However, in those counties predominantly inhabited by Mennonites, many Amish children may attend public schools. Whether attending public or private schools, they only attend through the eighth grade. The New Order church districts have taken steps to counter the Old World

custom of bedroom courtship and allowing the young to “sow their wild oats” before marriage and their entry into Click for larger image. the church. In an effort to provide alternative social activities, similar to programs designed to keep

Englisher youth off the streets, church ministers meet with the youth to sing hymns and talk. The Amish are quick to help each other. Frolics (a work party) are held to raise a neighbor’s barn or house. The men and older boys from five or six families, called a thrashing ring or circle, will help each other harvest crops. While the men typically do the heavy farm work, the women prepare meals, make quilts and can food. In times of illness, death or disaster, the entire Amish community rallies to help.