Things My Kids Will Never Do
As a child who was not shielded from a lot of the harsh realities of the world, I quickly learned to be independent and self-sufficient. There are certain things that, if I ever have children, will never happen on my watch. Sure, I have no kids only speak from a child's perspective . but I know the importance of protecting their innocence and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. The harsh realities of mental health as an adult are something I never want my children to experience. So let us dive in:
Sleepovers: even if it is at my mother's house or my brother's house, I do not care where it is; my child is sleeping at home. We have created an environment in this society where a father can prey on their child, and as a child who was sexually abused by a relative and all the sleepover stories of rape and sedomy, sorry guys, my child is not sleeping in anyone's house. Let us not forget that other children also sexually abuse kids and groom them . Spiritual stuff is a factor too . It's a sad reality that we must be vigilant and cautious when it comes to our children's safety, no matter the circumstances.
Sleep away from their rooms to make room for guests: I am sorry to disappoint all you African aunties, but this is their home, they are a priority here, because they won't be anywhere else and maybe their rooms are their safe haven. It is their room, if they want to well and good, if they don't, they are not going anywhere. Question, when leaving your house where were you expecting to sleep?
Eating at people's houses: I am African and superstitious; there is no way anyone is going to convince me to eat at anyone's house. It is not just about spirituality; some of you are just nasty; dirt food, dirt hands, dirt kitchen—that is putting my child's health on the line. Let us also talk about drugging and poisoning, because we keep forgetting that even the ones that we love envy us sometimes and could harm us or ours.
Unsupervised Internet Use: Limit access to the internet without supervision or proper filters to protect them from inappropriate content and online predators. It is important to educate children about the dangers of interacting with strangers online and to establish clear rules and boundaries for their internet use.
Excessive Screen Time: In my unpopular opinion, kids don't need phones or gadgets until their late teens. Restrict the amount of time spent on devices to encourage physical activity, social interaction, learning how to make friends and be social, and other productive activities.
Unhealthy Eating Habits: Avoid allowing a diet high in sugary, fatty, or highly processed foods to promote healthy eating habits and prevent health issues. Junk food in my house will be a once-in-a blue moon thing; they won't like it, but they will thank me later in life.
Disrespectful Behaviour: Not tolerate rude or disrespectful behaviour towards others, teaching them the importance of kindness, empathy, and good manners.
Skipping Homework or Chores: Ensure they complete their homework and household chores to instill a sense of responsibility and discipline. And also work ethic to prepare them for their future success.
Dangerous Activities: I also prohibit any activities that may put them in harm's way, such as experimenting with drugs or alcohol.
Staying Out Late: Impose curfews appropriate for their age to ensure they get enough rest and stay out of potentially unsafe situations. Not just for daughters; boys do get assaulted. Don't get me wrong, they will have time with friends, just not late at night.
Neglecting Personal Hygiene: Emphasise the importance of regular bathing, brushing teeth, and other personal hygiene practices. Starting from their early years, no one goes to bed musty in my house.
Avoiding Communication: Encourage open communication, and do not let them bottle up their feelings or avoid discussing important issues. This is something I am big on. Our parents tried their best, but what they did not do was let us deal with our emotions in a healthy way. As much as I am not a friend, they will definitely learn that opening up is crucial for personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships.
Engaging in bullying: Strictly prohibit any form of bullying and teach them the importance of treating everyone with respect and standing up against bullying behaviour. Now I don't know about everyone, but when I was a kid, this was NOT tolerated in my house; there is no way my kids are going to start it.
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