The Editor, Sir:

With all this talk about school children and discipline I embrace the notion that much of the unwanted behaviour stems from poor parenting in the home.

I am in no way avoiding or oblivious to the fact that teachers also have an instrumental role to play in moulding and shaping the child's life, but I have witnessed too many incidents in which parents have shrugged their shoulders, and ultimately utter that they cannot be bothered with their own child.

It has become increasingly difficult for many teachers to discipline and impart positive values and attitudes to the children as too many parents are nonchalant about their child's personal growth and development.

How many parents take time to really talk to their children? How many parents each night help with assignments or just to take time out to go through notebooks?

Too many parents do not understand the difference between loving a child and spoiling the child. For this reason many students have little or no regard for authority figures.This is evident in their mannerism and conduct at school.

In today's society, it is heart-rending that before reprimanding a child, the teacher has to consider the possibility that having done so he or he might be verbally or physically attacked by that child or parent or even both.

I have observed many teachers, some of whom have dedicated and made indelible marks in the system and their cups are running over nevertheless they are still collecting water. This, in itself, is commendable.

A deafening cry is heard for deliverance for the nation's children. I dare to be optimistic that teachers will not give up the fight for, behold, the battle is not yet lost. However, I call on you parents because they belong to you. I implore all parents to attend to the duties of child rearing with urgency.

I am, etc.,

MARY LEAMY

englamish_2@yahoo.com

Clonmel, St Mary