EDITORIAL - Parents need to do better
Too many parents are letting their children simply grow up, instead of taking an active role in raising them to be positive, productive citizens of this country.
Far too frequently we hear reports of bad behaviour amongst students – both during and after school hours – with the most alarming to date being the attack on a female student in one secondary school by a group of her peers, all of whom now face prosecution in the Court. There are also slightly older individuals who have passed school age, but are still young enough to be classified as “youths”. The latter are frequently featured in the pages of the Press, having been charged with committing any number of criminal offences.
Over the years, numerous factors have been pinpointed as sources of influence for this type of behaviour, including pop culture, television, and even substance abuse. However, another major factor exists that would contribute to these negative incidences – poor parenting. Yes, it is true that all the former factors can influence a person’s psyche, however, a person’s socialisation from childhood within the family environment is much more impactful as it moulds the foundation of an individual’s character and morality.
With this being the case, parents need to realise their crucial role in their children’s lives. Providing food, shelter, clothing and access to health care and education are essential, but care must also be given to the psychological and emotional development of a child. Children need quality time with parents and guardians to help them develop into quality individuals, and for this to be successful these parents must have the correct information and skills to impart this knowledge to their offspring.
To this end, numerous national, community and Parents Teachers Association (PTA) groups offer parenting programmes to help educate and train mothers and fathers for the most important job they will ever have. Groups like Parents Education for Development in Barbados (PAREDOS), Men’s Educational Support Association (MESA), the Kiwanis Club, the Child Care Board, the Anglican Church, and the Mother’s Union all provide assistance and advice to parents.
It is evident then that with such a wealth of opportunity out there, parents should be better equipped to raise well-adjusted young adults who contribute meaningfully to this society. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In too many instances parents do not make use of the opportunities provided. This was demonstrated recently in the low turnout for a parenting seminar set up by a Christ Church Primary School recently, which saw fewer than 50 parents show up after invitations were sent to around 300. Similarly, an official speaking a recent graduating ceremony for a PAREDOS parenting programme indicated that approximately half of those who signed up for the programme actually completed the course successfully.
In the final analysis, parents need to do better. They are too focused on the basic needs of the youngsters and are satisfied to see school as a day care and for teachers to raise their children for them. Parents need to take their role seriously. It is the most important job in the country. Just as you strive to accomplish and excel in your chosen career field, do so in your role as a parent. If you do not put in the added effort, do not be surprised when you reap what you sow.