It pains my heart to see how children are being raised today. It seems some parents have forgotten they are responsible and accountable for their children. In light of this, I thought it fitting to use this medium to remind parents that they, too, hold the keys to nation building.

Parents, the onus is on you to train your child right, as outlined in Proverbs 22:6, and thereby help your child to maximise his/her full potential. It is not acceptable for you to blame it on the system or your socio-economic standing. Many persons have excelled despite their 'low' socio-economic status and your child should be given adequate reasons to believe this and do the same.

I am so tired of hearing the cries for help from the same parents who would rather spend their money on the latest fashion and accessories than invest in their child's education. I'm tired of seeing children, lacking basic mannerisms. You have to be the one to provide for and guide your child. Stop looking for handouts and make a real effort to save your child from the quagmire of poverty and self-destruction. This is not to say you alone can grow your child, quite the contrary, but you have to be the driver.

sacrificial love

Parenting is about sacrificial love. I cannot even begin to explain how much my family has sacrificed for me, and this is what is required of parents. Do your best and your best might very well be doing without, so that your child can have a better life. I implore you to make the sacrifice for your child to get an education. Do not let them think for a moment there is another way.

Child rearing involves having the child's best interest at heart. This should affect the decisions you make and the way you live your life. It is sad when parents and their children turn up at the biggest parties in the same bare-as-she-dare outfits. Stage shows, street dances and such likes are not places for children. It is high time we realise raising a child is not about giving him/her material things - parenting is much more comprehensive. It does not only involve providing for the child but also teaching the child, inter alia, respect, discipline and accountability.

Indeed, you alone cannot raise your child but he/she is, fundamentally, your responsibility. It is not the teacher's responsibility to discipline your child you can't control at home. Parents, play your role.

I am, etc.,

TEISHA-ANN PINNOCK

tapinn1@gmail.com

Montego Bay

St James