By Olaitan Oye-Adeitan
That parenting is a huge task today, especially with emerging trends in modern society, is undeniable.
Is it the unbecoming attitude of many young people or prevailing social vices manifesting in different and unsuspecting forms?
Gone were the days when misbehaviour was only found among adolescents and youths because at that stage of their lives, they have some more awareness about themselves and as a result, some begin to see themselves as knowing better than their parents.
This is usually accompanied by the urge for freedom, exploration and adventure.
Of greater concern is the subtle penetration of this social menace into the camp of children, with primary school children now committing many atrocities.
There was the case of a little boy in primary one who, during an exam had written on his lap, answers to likely questions.
A video also went viral of two toddlers who were romancing themselves behind the school building.
Not even the school authority knew except a perceived neighbour whose house was close to the school from where the act was recorded.
These are just a few out of many issues of growing concerns among children today and the truth is, these children would grow up to be adults someday.
Without mincing words, a lot is happening in contemporary society and children are seeing events as they unfold by the day.
The weight of these unwholesome behaviours already constitutes so much pressure on some children.
While some are battling with the psychological effect of these experiences, trying to surmount it could not match the sane atmosphere they have been raised in their homes; others are already losing their guards and bowing to the pressures.
Sincerely, parents cannot fold their arms and watch till things deteriorate right before them.
The hearts of these children are beating so high with things they can explain and things they cannot, things they understand and those they don’t.
This is the more reason parents, guardians and even caregivers should give room for these God-given treasures to open up their minds and pour out the content to safe containers and not unsuspecting vampires who disguise as friends, neighbours and uncles but with ulterior motives.
As a parent, never shut your child up or shout him or her down when he/she is about to tell you something.
No matter how uninteresting he may sound, give him/her that listening ear and follow everything he says, giving them good thought.
Such enhances the bond between a child and the parents.
However, a child whose thoughts are waved on different occasions may begin to look out for whom to talk to, thus making the child vulnerable to those who would take advantage of him or her.
Gone were the days when the saying “What does a child know” is found to be true.
Today, a child sees, hears and knows a lot.
Do not underestimate that child!
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