Prepare kids for independent living

I refer to the report, "Pampered and just plain lazy?" (The New Paper, Feb 8).

The report is no surprise considering the number of families in which both parents work and have maids at home to do all the chores for their children.

Some children end up not lifting a finger to wash their own cups and plates after a meal.

Parents who think that since the maid cleans the child's room at home, she must also do the same for the child's hostel room are simply sending the wrong signal to their children, who will then feel that it is all right to be picked up after wherever they are.

Surely, a student staying in a hostel overseas should not expect the maid to go along to clean up after him or her.

And when a son goes to national service, he is expected to make his own bed and clean the toilets.

Children should be brought up to handle responsibilities that prepare them for independent living - and not rely on help for everyday routines.

(TNP reader Rosalind David)

This article was first published in The New Paper.