Decorum, etiquette, propriety, morale and decency should be the first lessons taught to children and this should begin at home.
Though schools are imparting lessons to students, children acquire these manners and qualities from their parents and elders at home.
I observed the behaviour of some parents and children in malls and gathering places and have noticed that children scuttle all around, even pestering others, while their ignorant parents engage with their work and avoid the situation.
Some children scream or throw tantrums on silly matters and parents yell at them, oblivious to where they are. Announcements about missing children who were caught wandering, reverberate in the shopping sector while parents are engrossed in their own stuff, or have forgotten that they have children. Security officers use all their arsenal for disobedient children who become erratic. Their dilemma is palpable.
The amazing part is that if anyone complains to these parents about their children’s chaotic behaviour, they instantly lambast the person, instead of chastising their wards. Having this attitude in front of the child encourages him or her be rude. Here, these children are becoming the victims of bad parenting. When they grow up this bad parenting will impact their day to day life, damage their demeanour as well as their friendship and relationships.
Parenting is a great commitment and parents need to be good teachers and need more patience. At least explain to them the ‘do’s and don’ts’. Our children are our responsibility, don’t let them be a burden and headache to others. Successful people mostly quote and remember their parents. To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their life today, in a better way.
Raise them well, it’s our obligation. Being gracious, polite and having manners helps create a respectful personality.
- The reader is a resident of Sharjah.
