Lollipop lady banned from giving treats after one parent complained

A popular lollipop lady has been banned from handing out treats to schoolchildren after one parent complained to the council.

Kaye Kittelty had offered Melbourne schoolchildren an icy pole in summer or a pie in winter as a once-a-term treat.

But those days are over after the Maroondah council enacted a statewide rule which does now allow supervisors “to be distracted by undertaking any other activities”.

“I was upset, I thought (the parent) could have come to me first and said they didn’t like it and tell me why they didn’t want me to do it,” the big-hearted grandmother said.

“The kids get (the treats) themselves out of the bag so it’s not interrupting my work.

“I’m here for the children and the parents and that’s the main concern.”

Ms Kittelty said the children’s safety was never compromised when she offered the treats, with students now starting a petition.

“She’s almost like a pseudo grandmother to many of the kids and they all just enjoy rushing up to see her,” one parent said.

“It’s just another example of the councils overstepping their mar and interfering in things they don’t need to interfere in.”

Describing the decision as trivial, Ms Kittelty said she will continue to smile and wave as she helps the children across the road, and will respect the council’s wishes.