As we approach the end of May, I reflected on the theme for Child Month which states, “Stand Up, Speak Out! Protect the Rights of our Children.” I reflected on the questions: ‘Who is to speak out or stand up?’, ‘Is it the Child or is it the Parent/Guardian?’ Lastly, ‘To Whom do they speak out?’

In previous years, it took a whole community to raise a child.  Children had the ability to stand up and speak out but it had to be done with manners and respect.  It was then the duty of the community to guide, guard and protect the children.

In more recent times, the community has become rather quiet in fear of the repercussions that may result from disciplining a child that is not their own.  They may even refrain from informing parents of certain observations they have come across regarding their child.  This begins to raise concerns regarding how well our children are guided, guarded and protected whenever they are not under the watchful eye of their parents.

From Birth, the child was pampered and cared for by the parents. They would sing lullabies and nursery rhymes, creating a bond which lasts a lifetime.  Parents would know when the child was hungry, sleepy or just craved some special attention.  Children also had the privilege of playing outside while their parents observed their growth and development physically and mentally.

Today, Artificial Intelligence has taken over and now there is limited bonding occurring between the child and the parent.  Parents sometimes miss the cue to know when their toddlers are in need of special care, quickly substituting the child’s cries for attention with a device, in hopes of quickly quieting them.  A smartphone, tablet or notebook is now used by parents as the new quieting tool.  As early as 4-6 months these babies know how to swipe up and down even in their sleep.

These gadgets have all the ingredients to negatively impact the children.  This can lead to not only the decreased bond between child and parent but also to a lack of communication and social skills within the child.

How can we help our children?

We as parents have to stand with our children, speak with our children and pray with our children.   Always remember: ‘A family that prays together, stays together.’

Community Members, continue to play your part in protecting and guiding our children whether they are under the watchful eye of their parents or not.

Let us all reflect on the Bible Verse:

“Train up a child in the way he should go:

And when he is old,

he will not depart from it.”

Proverbs 22:6 KJV

Audrey