Parents
By Olasunkanmi Onifade
Abuja, June 1, 2018 (NAN) Ms Aisha Bubah, the Conselling Psychologist, Network for Psychosocial Support Africa (NPS-Africa) on Friday advised parents to be good role models to their children.
Bubah gave the advice in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja to commemorate Global Day of Parents.
Global Day of Parents is observed on June 1 every year.
The Day was proclaimed by UN General Assembly in 2012 through resolution A/RES/66/292 to
honour parents throughout the world.
The day provides an opportunity to appreciate parents in all parts of the world for their selfless commitment to children and their lifelong sacrifice toward nurturing the relationship.
The psychologist said “we are in that generation where parents need to get closer to their kids; physically, emotionally and spiritually.
“Children these days need better role models as the influence of negative role models is on the increase and this has to start from parental roles played at home.’’
She added that parents must keep in mind the growing change in their children and adolescents, as well as learn ways to adapt and keep them up.
She noted that it was easy to sometimes assume the parenting style that worked in the past, saying it could prove ineffective.
She said “it is hard to say parents have failed in their responsibilities because times have changed, necessities and needs have become bigger and so the task of parenting the modern day child has become more challenging.’’
Pastor Tope Omage, the Assistant Pastor, Redeemed Christian Church of God, House of Joy Parish, Gwagalada, FCT, encouraged parents to be closer to their children, saying many children were hurting silently.
Omage said “many children had gone into all forms of drugs and misbehavior due to failure of parents’ nurture and care.
“Parents must not give up in their duties: they should continue in godly advice and counsel as it would go a long way when children become adults.
“Even after providing basic needs for children, parents still need to monitor and ensure they are not going through the wrong path.’’
She urged parents to be prayerful and encourage their children to be closer to God.
Mr Kolawole Olatosimi, the National Coordinator, Child and Youth Protection Foundation (CYPF) also urged parents to protect their children from all forms of abuse.
Ms Elizabeth Apata, a teacher in a private school in Gwagalada, FCT, advised parents not to choose future career for their children, rather, they should help them to discover it. (NAN)
OEO/HA
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Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu