With parenting comes responsibility
Editor,
As spring has exploded with all its beauty on our little town, once again our streets are a beehive of activity. It is very important that we parents keep an eye on our children as they are full of curiosity looking for adventure.
As a mother myself, I realize the commitment it takes to keep track of the little ones especially. I also understanding despite our best efforts, accidents do happen sometimes. However, we are still accountable for every aspect of their lives including their safety and well being. Along with the joy of parenthood comes the responsibility.
That being said, I am concerned about whey even in our small town young unsupervised children are allowed to wander the busy streets.
I well remember the constant chore of watching nine children from newborn to nine years of age as well as running my own business and taking care of my home. I found my every waking moment full. I was constantly counting heads making sure no one had wandered off to play elsewhere.
Children do have guardian angels, I believe, and often they test the limits and boundaries of the watchful care. We, the parents, however are mainly responsible for our children.
My family was made keenly aware of this "small problem" when my teenage child nearly ran over some unsupervised children. Thank God no one was hurt, but it has definitely caused all of us to be aware how quickly lives can be terribly altered. Not only the wandering child, but the ones who would have to be imprisoned with the sorrows and guilt forever.
We have to have a license to fish, hunt, drive, get married and even to have a pet in town. Yet there are no requirements for becoming a parent. Why? Are not children as important as a fish or pet?
Is there anything that can be done? Yes, I believe there is. First, that seasoned parents and grandparents and child care givers embrace the new and expectant parents and share their love and wisdom. Then suppose there were some law to encourage the education of new or expectant parents?
A law requiring basic care and parenting classes. How? When an expecting parent goes to her doctor, health care office or midwife, a mandatory parenting class be required. A class not only giving basic outlines for newborn care, but what to expect in the first few years. Teaching what the rights, responsibilities and obligations of parenthood are along with the joys, fun and beauty. If it saves one life, it would be well worth the effort.
If a new or expecting parent refuses, then cut off food stamps, AFDC, Medicaid, even cancel private insurance. Bringing a child into this world should be much more important than only the financial benefits or aid a parent can get.
If we violate the law, someone's rights or offend someone, we can be fined, even imprisoned, depending on the violation. Who is standing up for the fights of our little children? The right to live past childhood, to be loved and protected?
When we decide to become a parent, it is very important to understand the scope of that commitment. To be a parent is a lifetime, life changing decision.
Joanne Phillips
Polson