Poor parenting can harm kids
Poor parenting is creating a growing number of fragile children more likely to become adults who end up in jail or in need of increased welfare handouts, a leading educator has warned.
Writing in the WA Primary Principals Association's journal, its president Stephen Breen said teachers had to contend with parents who sent their children to school without breakfast and failed to teach them social skills.
And, at the other extreme, teachers had to deal with a rise in "helicopter parents" hovering over their children protectively.
Mr Breen said primary school educators believed such problems were getting worse, in spite of the efforts of schools, non-profit organisations and government agencies.
"The lack of leadership in this area, on-the-ground co- ordination, parenting programs and early intervention strategies will result in a growing proportion of future adults who will need increased welfare, health and . . . the State's corrective services," he said.
Mr Breen said more primary school children were physically aggressive with other pupils and their teachers.
"A student who swears and lashes out during lessons and children's play is not uncommon in schools today," he said.
A growing number of children had not learnt acceptable social behaviour or self-discipline.
"They are restless, distracted, angry and very emotional," he said. "Teachers realise it is not the fault of the young - it is simply because no one has taken the time to teach them the basic prerequisites of growing up."
Mr Breen said the rise in helicopter parents had compounded the problems confronting all schools - public or private.
"Typical actions would include ensuring their child has a certain teacher, selecting a child's friends, not allowing the child to play outside for fear of injury or providing disproportionate assistance with a child's homework," he said.
Schools usually saw helicopter parents after a playground incident their child may have exaggerated.
"A parent who does not understand child development reverts to actions such as demanding restraining orders or an apology from a five-year-old student," he said.
Warning: WA Primary Principals Association president Stephen Breen. Picture: The West Australian
