THE EDITOR, Sir:
I AM elated that an early intervention system for children is being taken seriously. Over the past five years I have been involved in the education service, albeit, voluntarily. I was at a loss to understand why educational psychologists were attached to high schools and not primary schools. Logic would dictate that it is prudent to deal with the cause from its inception rather than waiting until it is mature, some years later, when personality traits have been formed.
The task of assisting the person to be able to release that burden, is extremely painful. The emotional defences have been cemented in place. Arresting the problem early, while it is still pliable and with proper guidance, could eventually bring about erosion and from thence we have healthy people with sound minds, behaving in a manner acceptable to society at large.
I am involved with so many children for whom the 'rough' life of shouting and cursing, is the norm. Getting beaten, is the norm. A child may be having emotional problems due to the home situation and therefore unable to function appropriately at school. Instead of finding out what is the cause, the child gets beatings. Then we all wonder why society is as it is. From whom do children learn what is acceptable and what is not?
The education system should be overhauled serious commitment ought to be seen to be operating across the board. Gaining a teachers diploma does not make a good teacher. Ineffective personnel are let loose on the defenceless children. A teacher must be in control of a class without the 'belt'.
I am, etc.,
PANSY GAYLE
plgayle05@yahoo.com
St. Mary
