In classic education, the first three topics are grammar, rhetoric and logic. I'm of the firm belief that if we were to teach rhetoric at a fairly early age, that we as parents could combat this. Having a 14 yo, I'm a bit behind the ball in officially teaching it. :|
Thanks for bringing this topic up so early in the year!
I agree with your opinion. Logic and rhetoric definitely need to be taught to young children- and based upon the papers I grade in college, so does grammar.