Chewing gum in class may seem harmless, but schools have good reason to ban it. If you’re looking for a quick answer, schools ban gum because it can be messy, distracting, and even pose a choking hazard.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the history of gum bans in schools and why administrators view gum as problematic. We’ll look at how gum got started, how it made its way into schools, and the valid concerns around gum chewing during class time.
We’ll also examine some of the alternatives schools have implemented in place of an outright ban.
A Brief History of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum has been enjoyed by people from various cultures and civilizations throughout history. The act of chewing on natural substances for pleasure and oral hygiene purposes dates back thousands of years.
The Origins of Chewing Gum
The ancient Greeks were known to chew on a substance called mastiche, derived from the resin of the mastic tree. In ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations, people would chew on sap from the sapodilla tree, known as chicle, which is still used in modern gum production.
Native Americans also had their own versions of chewing gum, made from tree sap and other natural ingredients.
Chewing Gum Becomes Popular in the 1900s
The commercial production of chewing gum began in the late 19th century, with the introduction of flavored chewing gum made with chicle. The first successful chewing gum company, Adams Gum, was founded by Thomas Adams in the United States in 1871.
As the popularity of chewing gum grew, more companies entered the market, offering various flavors and packaging options.
In the early 20th century, chewing gum became a popular pastime, especially among young people. It was seen as a way to freshen breath, relieve stress, and improve concentration. The iconic bubblegum, which allowed for the creation of large bubbles, was introduced in the 1920s and quickly gained popularity among children and teenagers.
Gum Making Its Way into Schools
Despite its growing popularity, chewing gum has often been restricted in schools. Many schools have implemented policies that prohibit students from chewing gum on campus. These policies are often based on concerns about cleanliness, noise, and potential distractions in the classroom.
However, some studies have suggested that chewing gum can actually have positive effects on cognitive function and focus. Research has shown that chewing gum can increase alertness and improve memory performance.
It is believed that the act of chewing stimulates the brain, increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery.
While the debate over whether schools should allow gum continues, some schools have started to relax their policies. They recognize the potential benefits of chewing gum and have implemented guidelines for responsible gum chewing, such as disposing of gum properly and avoiding disruption to others.
Reasons for Banning Gum in Schools
Gum Litter and Messes
One of the main reasons why schools ban gum is because of the litter and mess it creates. When students are allowed to chew gum, they often dispose of it irresponsibly, sticking it under desks, on the floor, or even on walls.
This not only creates an unsightly and unhygienic environment, but it also requires additional cleaning and maintenance for the school staff. Schools aim to provide a clean and safe learning environment for students, and banning gum helps in achieving this goal.
Distractions During Class
Gum chewing can be a major distraction during class. The constant smacking, popping, and blowing bubbles can disrupt the learning process for both the gum chewer and their classmates. Teachers need a focused and quiet environment to effectively teach the curriculum, and allowing gum chewing can hinder this.
By banning gum, schools can minimize distractions and promote a more conducive learning atmosphere.
Choking Hazards
Gum poses a choking hazard, especially for younger students. Children may accidentally swallow or inhale gum, leading to potential health risks. While the likelihood of choking on gum is relatively low, schools prioritize the safety and well-being of their students.
By banning gum, schools can prevent accidents and ensure the overall safety of their students.
Damage to School Property
Gum can cause damage to school property, particularly when students dispose of it improperly. When gum is stuck to desks, chairs, or other surfaces, it can be difficult and time-consuming to remove. This can result in additional costs for repairs and maintenance.
Banning gum helps schools protect their property and allocate their resources more effectively.
Alternatives to an Outright Ban
Allowing Gum Chewing at Certain Times
Instead of completely banning gum from schools, one alternative is to allow gum chewing at certain times. This can be during designated break periods or in specific areas of the school, such as the cafeteria or outdoor spaces.
By setting clear guidelines and time limits, schools can help control the potential distractions or mess associated with gum chewing while still providing students with the benefits it may offer.
Providing Disposal Containers
A common concern with allowing gum in schools is the issue of gum litter. To address this, schools can provide disposal containers specifically for gum. These containers can be strategically placed throughout the school, making it convenient for students to dispose of their gum properly.
By promoting responsible gum disposal, schools can minimize the negative impact of gum litter while still allowing students to enjoy chewing gum.
Permitting Sugar-Free Gum Only
Another alternative to an outright ban is to permit the chewing of sugar-free gum only. Sugar-free gum is widely available and has been proven to have dental health benefits. It can help increase saliva production, which aids in reducing plaque and preventing tooth decay.
By allowing only sugar-free gum, schools can encourage good oral hygiene practices among students while minimizing the potential negative effects of sugary gum.
Education Over Restriction
Rather than simply banning gum without explanation, schools can choose to educate students about the reasons behind the rules. By teaching students about the potential distractions and hygiene concerns associated with gum chewing, they can make informed decisions and understand the importance of following school policies.
This approach promotes responsibility and empowers students to make responsible choices, rather than relying solely on restrictive measures.
Conclusion
While chewing gum in class may seem harmless to students, schools have implemented gum bans for many years to avoid messes, distractions, and safety issues. Rather than rebellion over these restrictions, students should try to understand the rationale behind these rules.
With some compromise from both sides, and proper education on appropriate chewing habits, the great gum debate in schools may one day come to an end.
