The Boys of To-day

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 20, 16 October 1946, Page 12

The Boys of To-day

TALK TO ROTARY CLUB PARENTAL CONTROL NEEDED The guest, speaker at the Rotary Club's luncheon on Wednesday was Mr. C. A. Browning, the subject of his talk being "The Boy of Today." Mr. Browning prefaced his remarks by saying that all present were still young in heart and very sympathetic with the boy who found himself facing many problems in a modern world. We do well to bear in mind that the boj- in a great measure reflects the attitude of his elders and example is perhaps the most potent method of teaching in the leader or teacher. It is also important to discover what he is thinking so that guidance and leadership may be given more effectively. Compared with the boy of days gone by the present-day fellow was little different, for he is still interested in real things, loves games and fair play and responds to wholesome treatment. His standard of attainment may vary according to the demand made in these days, but the system under which he is trained gives him greater freedom and scope for initiative, with the result that he is. happy in his school environment and well equipped to take up the battle of life. Value of Home Training In the matter of training and character moulding the home atmosphere is paramount, though, of course, the school and organisations such as Y.M.C.A., Scouts, Cubs, etc., do a splendid work for youth. There is, however, a section of, youth which fails to link up with any of these organisations and here arises a difficulty as to how to attach these young people under desirable leadership. Lack of parental control is often the root cause of delinquency in children. In some parts of America experiments have been conducted, when parents of delinquent children have been brought before a welfare committee and given a course in parental training. Much has been done, it is claimed, to provide a better understanding among the parents and also to arouse civic consciousness.

It is still a good thing to teach a boy to honour his father and mother, to fear God, and honour the King.