WHETHER you like it or not, during the next few weeks you will be swept along as if a tidal wave has hit you as we, Guyanese, get ready for Christmas and year-end celebrations. During this season ‘big people’ in particular like to sport and this includes the excessive use of alcohol ( and other illegal substances) followed by situations that sometimes get out of hand.

One of the worst scenarios is when a person is encouraged to take one more drink ‘for the road’ they usually say, but that drink could impair the cognitive skills of a driver, resulting in an accident or even fatalities. ‘It’s Christmas’ and for many this simply means anything is permissible. Unfortunately, children are usually in the mix- up, witnessing adults either behaving badly or taking unnecessary risks.

Grown-ups like to think that children do not fully understand the things that adults do and say, but children are silent witnesses who are forever taking in information. Depending on their ages, maybe their ability to deduce a situation or occurrence may not be as refined as an adult; but you can be sure that as they grow they will remember the things that adults wish they would forget and they will understand the significance of the things that happened. Therefore, adults need to pay special attention to what they do and say in front of their children and do not let the festivities of the season make their ‘tongue loose’ or their behaviour ‘worthless’. Think positively, stay positive and set good examples for children — not just during this season, but all year through.

During this time of year there are many gatherings and parties where food and drink will be free and plentiful , but parents must always remember to put their children first. Children should not be left alone at home to take care of themselves while their parents or caregiver is out having a fun time. Children must be adequately provided for and supervised at all times; it is a parental duty to ensure that children are nourished, safe and protected. It is so easy for adults to get caught up in the excitement and merriment of the season that they neglect their children to the extent where, what should be a fun time for all, just becomes a miserable season for children.

Making the season a fun time for children needn’t mean spending money you do not have or aiming to put your hat higher than your hand can reach. You could take this opportunity to teach children about values that are not purely based on materialism. The wonderful fact that families can share time together and enjoy each other’s company over the holiday and new year is already something to be celebrated: you have all made it through another year. While we are all aware that this is meant to be a season for giving, life itself and good health are the most beautiful presents of all so any ‘present’ received after that is indeed a bonus.

Teach children humility and thankfulness for the things they have, things sought after, will come in due time. Caring, sharing, loving and nurturing are aspects of togetherness that should lie at the heart of families this season and throughout successive years: So, parents embrace your family with love and devotion: show them how much you really care.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child ring the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to childcaregy@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION

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