Experts have said the trend is growing for kindergarten children to experience emotional abuse during the early morning hours as they are woken up and prepared for school.
These children, whose natural sleep cycle demands ample rest, are often subjected to early wake-ups that contradict their developmental needs.
These kids are now waking up earlier than university students due to the demands of their parents’ work schedules.
Parents, often starting their workday early, wake their children at around 5 AM to prepare them for school.
After ensuring the children are ready, parents either drop them off at school or wait for the school shuttle to pick them up before heading to their jobs.
In some surprising cases, parents wake their children, send them off to school, and then return to bed for a few extra hours of sleep before going to work.
The sight of school shuttles passing by with almost all the children inside still asleep speaks volumes about the toll these early wake-ups take on their bodies and minds.
However, the issue extends beyond just the early wake-up times.
For many children, the morning routine comes with verbal abuse and emotional intimidation, particularly from their mothers.
The pressure to rush, hurry, and perform tasks quickly often leads to shouting, harsh words, and frustration directed at the children, which can have lasting emotional effects.
In response to this, a growing number of fathers have begun to take a more active role in the morning preparation routine.
They are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the treatment their children face, especially the emotional strain during the early hours.
Fathers have noticed that when they are responsible for getting their children ready for school, the chances of the children crying or becoming upset are significantly lower compared to when mothers handle the routine.
Experts emphasize that children need sufficient rest, especially during the early morning, to support their growth and development.
Dr. David Musasizi a child psychologist, explains, “A child’s emotional well-being is shaped by their experiences, especially in the early morning. The way they are treated during their morning routine can set the tone for their entire day. Emotional abuse, even in small doses, can have long-lasting effects.”
This issue has sparked a broader conversation about the need for schools and workplaces to accommodate parents, particularly those with young children, to ensure the well-being of both parents and children.
Some parents are exploring alternatives such as adjusting work schedules or finding schools with later start times to alleviate the pressure on young children.
As awareness of this problem grows, it is crucial that society recognizes the importance of nurturing and calm mornings for young children, free from emotional abuse and the stress of early wake-ups.
Only by addressing this issue can society ensure that children begin their day with the care, support, and rest they need to thrive.
