The Paragon - NWET&D - Article Consequences-Parents to Blame

'Parents to Blame' for Problems in UK Schools

Teachers have launched a devastating attack on parents, accusing many of failing in their responsibilities and undermining schools.
Children are now arriving at school socially undeveloped, increasingly unable to dress themselves, unable to use the toilet properly and unused to eating at a table, Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, writes in today's Observer. Instead of taking responsibility themselves, too many parents expect teachers to control their children's behaviour and wellbeing, she adds.
Bousted cites one mother who blamed staff when her 14-year-old daughter became pregnant and another when she discovered that her 16-year-old son was smoking cannabis.
The union leader's attack, which will be underlined at the ATL's annual conference in Liverpool this week, comes as research reveals that children and parents are becoming increasingly confrontational with teachers. A survey of members to be published tomorrow found that nearly two in five had been confronted by an aggressive parent or guardian.
Her Observer article says the problem is not children living in poverty; most come from homes with televisions, computers and games consoles. What they do not have "are adults who are prepared to give their time and energy doing that most difficult but essential of jobs, raising their children properly".