Atticus Finch has a unique style of parenting opposed to most parents in Maycomb. Within his parenting, he teaches his children valuable lessons they will use in the future. For example, Atticus allows his children call him by his first name. He treats his children equal to how he would an adult. Jem and Scout are given independence by their father which most parents don't allow their children to have. He allows independence because he acknowledges the value of their childhood. For instance, when Atticus and Uncle Jack were discussing whether or not the children should be made aware of the upcoming court case, Atticus explains to Jack the respect and equality you need to treat children with as you would with an adult. Atticus explains, ".When a child asks you something, answer him, for goodness sake. But don't make a production of it. Children are children, but they can spot an evasion quicker than adults, and evasion simply muddles them. No." (Lee 99). .
Atticus believes in equality and justice. He tries to explain to Uncle Jack that children should be treated equally with respect no matter what age they are. Parents often put themselves before children to encourage respect to adults, but he believes they are equal in respect. Atticus's parenting style is both unique and different than most but it is an effective way to prepare his children for the future. Atticus's parenting style also includes teaching Scout and Jem many valuable lessons throughout the course of the novel. One of the most important lessons taught was for the children to look at the world through another person's eyes. One night Atticus explains an important concept of life, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view- until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." (Lee 85). This lesson was used throughout the story in many situations Jen and Scout went through.
