Children from Rehoboth Basic School, St Andrew, perform at the launch of 'Get the Picture, Drawing the Line Against Child Abuse', held at Emancipation Park, New Kingston, last November. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Adults acting as children always draw laughter, but a recent play on parenting, staged by the Women's Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC) players, provoked argu-ment as well as the usual belly laughs.

"What we are going to do this afternoon is to show you some ways that we behave as parents." The cajoling tone of drama coach Carol Lawes promised merriment as she announced the first act by the WROC Players in Trinityville, St Thomas, in the summer performance.

Drama as main means

The play was part of WROC'S and Christian Aid's promotion of parenting without abuse, using drama as the main means of communication.

Parents from Mount Vernon, Mount Lebanus, Trinityville, Fonthill, Danvers Pen, Sommerset and Georgia attended the event.

Issues discussed included prejudice, based on skin colour, the link between poverty and abuse, the basic rights of children to education and the need for parenting without abuse.

According to discussion facilitator Faith St Catherine, the session was intended to build awareness of the dangers of poor parenting and also focus on how some current parenting practices need to be reformed.

- Avia Collinder

POSITIVE Parenting

Abuse and parenting

Gender-based violence and prejudice also affect parenting habits and the welfare of children.

Improving the economic situation of parents will also improve the lot of children in their homes.

There are many alternatives to discipline that do not include violence.

Abused children will later accept abuse from partners in relationships.

Abused children have low self esteem and may underperform, and fail to reach their full potential.

Fathers who help with homework, chores and provide financial assistance create better families.

Even when there is very little money at home, children will thrive with love and respect from their parents.

We must listen to our children.