Why is it inappropriate for children to ask adults their ages?

Answer 1

I don't think it's inappropriate, may be certain adults might not want to divulge that information; but assuming it's inappropriate across the board is a fallacy.

Answer 2

I think that most children are just curious and are not taught by their parents that ages, marital status, weight, etc... are not things children should ask adults. These are also topics that I teach in my etiquette classes and some children do not know that it is a form of respecting someones privacy.
Just wanted to add that in the business sector there are questions that interviewers can not ask such as.
How many children do you have?
This question is inappropriate for two reasons.
First, questions regarding marital status, number of children and childcare arrangements are not appropriate because they may be seen as being based upon the applicant's gender. It is unlawful to deny a female applicant employment because she has children or is planning to have a child at some future date.
Second, this question is an inappropriate way of asking about an otherwise appropriate subject: availability to work.
So teaching children at an early age not to ask certain questions just helps to prepare them for upcoming conversations in life.

Answer 3

Older ppl just don't like to think about the fact that they really are old. It reminds them of all the things they wished they could have done in life, and all of the opportunities they missed. Old age also spells out wrinkles, age spots, and countless other undesirable characteristics. Elders just don't want children to think that they look old or point out their old age.

Answer 4

It's inappropriate for ANYONE to ask ANYONE else their age, unless it is required for whatever task is at hand (if you are offering a senior citizen's discount, or someone is purchasing alcohol...etc.)

Answer 5

some how is it concidered disrespectful. Just inscure people, personal preferance i suppose... I wouldn't be offended if a child asks my age, and if they guess my age and it is way older then i am i would be flatered, because children compair knowlege with age...

Answer 6

I've heard that, especially when I was younger. More often I hear, you should never ask a woman her age.

HOWEVER, in our more modern P.C. world it is entirely appropriate to ask anyone's age, unless you are trying to exploit it in someway.

No one should be ashamed of their age. We will al turn 50, unless we die, and we were all once 16.

It's a silly rule, and one that is less and less followed.

Answer 7

i for one have never fully understood that; i mean seriously age should be celebrated, it means wisdom and knowledge. why are we pretty much the only country in this world who looks at it like we do? is say we should follow western cultures and enjoy life while it is still here

Answer 8

i wouldnt think it is,, how often do adults ask children that? very often,,,,,,,, some adults are sensitive about their age,,,, i dont know why,,, and while its not appropriate for one adult to ask another, i would think it would be fine for a child to

Answer 9

I have never understood that rule. I guess it was created by people who are insecure about their age.

Answer 10

Because they get sad/offended when someone points out that their lives are half over.