Parenting, not income, key in battle against bullying

MY thoughts and prayers are for the family and loved ones of the young girl who took her life recently – apparently because of the pressure on her of bullying.

It is a sad reflection on our society that this could happen. But raising funds to control bullying will have little effect. We see this all the time. Groups are set up to investigate problems then try and treat the after-effects rather than treat the cause.

Bullying is a human trait that has existed since Adam wore short pants and it will not go away. In fact it will get worse as the gutless ones turn to social media for their kicks. Sure, there needs to be love and support for those who are bullied but it really comes back to how we handle it and how we educate people in their response to bullying. That will come from a society founded on families where they are taught respect and righteous principles in the home.

It is too common now for both parents to work and delegate the upbringing of children to ‘early learning centres’. These places are run for profit by people who ‘control’ the children for the day and then send them home. They don’t really care for their development.

It is difficult when people want a two-income family, but is it really necessary? I believe this is a shortsighted selfish approach where couples want everything now so the children miss out on the loving, caring relationships that is so important in those early formative years.

Many will say I don’t know what I’m talking about. I don’t have a degree in psychology or child minding, but I do have four children and 12 grand children – all perfectly adjusted, happy and healthy. That didn’t require a degree, just a priority for the love and affection of family.