ABUJA, Nigeria – As we prepare to celebrate Children’s Day on May 27, let’s reflect on how we shape the lives of our children in today’s society. It’s important to send out a clarion call to parents and guardians: discipline and education are no longer optional, they are essential.
As the saying goes, “Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This highlights the importance of intentional upbringing. If we neglect to equip our children with the proper skills and morals, we are essentially paving the way for societal decline.
There’s a growing trend of indiscipline among today’s youth. They are faced with numerous challenges, including the adverse effects of social media and peer pressure. Personalities shaped by selfishness, disregard for authority, and the glorification of material wealth must be addressed through structured guidance and correction.
A pastor reiterated that our children’s present behavior often mirrors the lack of proper supervision and guidance. He stated, “The current wave of corruption among our youth is linked to a failure of upbringing. Parents must be actively involved in nurturing their children’s lives.” He emphasized the need for spiritual and moral training.
The proliferation of digital devices has left many parents relying on technology over personal interaction for nurturing their children. As children consume skewed content on platforms like TikTok, they can easily lose sight of essential values. This calls for parents to flip the narrative by using technology constructively, guiding their children to acquire skills that will position them for success in the job market.
It is not just about discipline; parents need to create an environment that fosters growth. Effective communication and clear guidelines can help in correcting undesirable behavior, thus encouraging positive habits. Regular prayer and moral instructions are also important in developing godly character among youth.
The societal trend shows a decline in the awareness of moral values, which is alarming. The government must also play its part by ensuring that children with mental health challenges get the required help and that parents receive resources to maintain their children’s well-being.
As we celebrate Children’s Day, let’s remember that our children are the future; their training is crucial. Every parent, teacher, and leader has a significant role to play. With dedicated effort, we can raise a generation equipped with the skills and discipline needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Together, we can establish a robust foundation for our youth, which will ultimately reflect positively on our nation’s future.
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