SENIOR Presidential Advisor (SPA)in charge of poverty alleviation in Busoga Hon. Florence Mutyabule has asked parents and guardians to ensure that their children spend the long holiday fruitfully and avoid falling prey to wrong elements.
As the holidays begin, she says some parents feel a sigh of relief and joy that their children are having a break from school and enjoying some well-deserved rest.
However, the former Namutumba District Woman MP says the holidays can also be a challenging time for parents especially when it comes to ensuring their children’s well-being, safety and discipline.
“…during holidays, children often have more free time which can be like what the Bible describes as a double-edged sword, a blessing and curse at the same time.
With more time on their hands, children are likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, unlimited access to pornography, violence and fornication and sexual immorality.
According to experts, the lack of structure and routine as is the case in schools can make it very difficult for children to stay focused and motivated.
As parents, it’s essential to be proactive and intentional about children’s activities and well-being during the holidays.
“…take an active interest in your child’s activities and hobbies, encourage them to pursue their passions and interests, set boundaries by establishing clear rules and expectations for their behaviors during their holidays…”, Mrs. Florence Mutyabule guides.
She also stresses the need for parents or guardians to monitor their activities by keeping an eye on what the children are doing and who they are spending time with.
While most or all parents are always busy throughout the year trying to look for resources to sustain their families, Mrs. Mutyabule encourages parents to use the holidays as an opportunity to spend quality time with the children.
“…parenting during the holidays requires effort and intention, but it can also be a rewarding experience especially when you are involved, set up boundaries and encouraging positive conduct to help them have a safe and enjoyable holiday season…”, Mrs. Florence Mutyabule emphasized.
Hon Mutyabule who is also wife to Owek. George William Wanume Mutyabule the Speaker Busoga Lukiiko (Parliament) cautions that when parents do not keep a close watch on their children, they might face some serious issues like accidents that can happen, children might be vulnerable to sexual abuse or defilement and they might even get into trouble with theft, among other things.
The former Mothers’ Union President emphasizes that while providing for kids’ needs is great, it is not enough to just give them everything and let them do their thing.
“…parents and guardians have to set boundaries, discipline them, and make sure they are staying on track – that is where the real love and care show up, you know…?” she says in rhetoric.
Mrs. Mutyabule’s point is clear: having all the material comforts in the world cannot replace good old-fashioned parenting. children from wealthy families can still end up struggling big time if they are not taught right from wrong, and given the guidance they need. It’s like, money cannot buy you values, discipline, or a sense of responsibility.
Let’s wrap it up – Hon. Florence Mutyabule is dropping some serious truth bombs on parents and guardians out there! It’s not just about providing for your children’s physical needs, it is about being there for them, guiding them, and teaching them right from wrong.
As she puts it, “parenting during the holidays requires effort and intention, but it can also be a rewarding experience”. We at The Exposure Uganda (TEU) say it is time to take responsibility – We Expose, You Decide! So, parents and guardians, it is up to you to decide how to manage your children and make this holiday season a time for connection, growth, and most importantly, love.
