Need training in how to be parent

IT is so strange to read that as a parent you are aware that your child is bullied at school, the staff of the school have never been of any help and now you find it wise to run to the media (“Mom demands action after pupil ‘humiliated’ ”, June 1).

Why are teachers always to be blamed, to be disciplined and to be suspended? Why can’t parents value the teachers’ inputs as teachers work under tremendous pressure?

The curriculum changes almost yearly and they must deal with undisciplined children who are taught no manners at home by their so-called loving parents.

Many a time the parents were also children who conceived children at very young ages and left the ouma to raise the child.

If complaining parents can take the time to communicate with their children, asking them how their day at school was, and be part of their schoolwork, then they will have a better understanding of their children’s education.

Parents need to be part of school parent meetings, but are absent.

Still the Department of Education entertains them in their ignorance.

Parents want teachers to be the teacher, pastor, nurse, psychologist and carer, and to look after their children most of the day.

Maybe the department has a manual for parents and their behaviour, or has workshops to educate parents about responsibility and attitude, and how to be examples for pupils and themselves, instead of always complaining and running to the media and politicians.

That’s why our South Africa is so disorderly.

Reginald Saptoe, Port Elizabeth