Parents are the key determinants of how a child is raised, and sometimes even how that child is perceived by certain members of society.
The role of a parent is one of exceptional importance – it shouldn’t be taken lightly, nor should it prohibit a child from having a fair chance at being judged by their own character and merits. Unfortunately, however, it’s often the child who suffers from the irresponsible or lackadaisical actions of parents.
I recently spoke with an educator who explained how some children in her elementary school are often prejudged or categorized; not by their own actions, but by those of their parents. This longtime educator who works at an inner-city school told me that many of the parents of her students have some of the worst and unwarranted attitudes she’s seen in her 23-year career.
“It’s as if they are mad at the world. Even if you speak to them or try to hold a conversation with them regarding their children, some won’t even talk to you. I’ve never seen such overt rudeness,” said the educator.
In addition to less than stellar attitudes, I was told that the attire some of the parents wear is deplorable. Whether it’s extra tight jeans, inappropriately short skirts and dresses, halter tops with no undergarments or even pajamas – the educator says she’s seen it all.
“I know I’m a bit older now and not as hip as some of the younger folks, but I also know what’s inappropriate,” she said. “Inappropriate is a nice word to describe what they wear…there are other words more fitting.”
While the 23-year teaching veteran says she doesn’t judge her students by their parents, she’s personally witnessed other teachers and administrators do so.
“Instantly, the kids are stereotyped. In being unfairly categorized, some teachers unknowingly treat them differently, which can eventually lead to the kids not grasping their studies the way they should.”
The aforementioned woman isn’t the first to tell me such accounts. Over the years I’ve spoken with countless teachers, administrators, and coaches who all expressed the same sentiments. What’s even more frustrating is that if the parents behave rudely and dress inappropriately in public, we can only imagine what kids are exposed to in the privacy of their own homes. It’s truly sad.
If dressing distastefully is what an adult wants to do, than fine…there’s a time and place for everything. Your child’s school is not such a place.
It’s time for parents and adults in general to be responsible regarding their actions. Doing so not only makes us more accountable, it also ensures that our youth have positive figures in their lives to model themselves after.
The phrase “Children are like sponges, they absorb everything” is true. Much of what children do is the result of learned behaviors…it’s our responsibility to ensure that children are exposed to positive things and actions. It’s shameless how many adults don’t take this as seriously as they should.
I’m so tired of parents not putting forth the maximum effort towards the most important role we’re blessed to have. Whatever you’re going through, get over it and do what you have to do to make sure your children are thriving.
It’s unfair to limit a child before they really have a chance to succeed in life. If you don’t feel motivated enough to do better for yourself, than do better for your children’s sake…it’ll make a true difference in their lives.
