I'm going to give my two cents. :D
While I believe that a child should understand the world around them and be taught the basic skills to function in society, I also feel that they shouldn't just be pushed down from the beginning. One shouldn't, of course, say the world is a happy ponyland where the water is pure and everything you want is handed to you without effort. But one also shouldn't just give the impression of "Grow up and deal it with yourself" or "Life sucks than you die". In a way, they should keep it neutral. One should point out not the flaws and beauty in the world, but rather help another see them; And guide them through interpreting, learning through, and admiring it.
We live within the reality through which we are presented. So if a cold existance is apparent, that's how we often view life; and likewise with a pleasent one. So the prime objective of these seminars, as I feel, shouldn't be about dealing with a situation - That is taught through experience of yourself and your elders - Rather, they should show a person that, even though a situation may bring about bitterness, you can not intergrate that throughout the entirerty of your life view. One must be happy and grateful for their life, regardless of the situation they may be in. And, as said before, one should learn how to interpret the flaws so they may learn and admire the beauty so they may be inspired and content.
Basically, what has already been said, just in my own view. :o