It is unfortunate that the parent/parents of Connor and Noah Barthe did not share the same
view. Now I am not blaming the parents, their
loss must be unimaginable, this was an accident. However we have legalized seat belts and cars
seats to prevent accidents. We, as a
country, need to take more care with our children.
I have seen more
harm than good come from sleep overs.
Often there are more than two children involved and in numbers come
trouble. Who has not heard of sleep over
children who storm the kitchen, watch adult movies and videos, help themselves
to liquor and even partake of prescription drugs? All while the adults are sleeping!
Both my daughter and
I had disturbing episodes, of the personal nature, while on sleep overs. They were definitely not the fault of the
host but had we been at home this trauma would have been avoided.
Our children are
the most precious gift; we should watch them like we would an invaluable work
of art, a fortune in cash or a priceless antique. Would you send one of those treasures out for
the night?
I do advocate occasional sleep over visits
with grandparents to give the parents a break and the grandparents some alone
time with the younger generation. However most grandparents are getting older
and both parents and grandparents should review sleeping arrangements, safety
issues, and security of adult materials and proximity of pets. Too many little ones have been bitten by the
family pet!
When you and your
family feel sleep overs might be appropriate here is my check list;
ü Child should be about ten
ü Ensure you know the family your child will be visiting
ü You need to have visited the home,
preferably more than once
ü Inquire about sleeping arrangements,
safety issues, and security of adult materials and proximity of pets
ü If you are not 100% with the answers do
not let you child go!
ü Ask about hours for sleep, what and when
they will eat
ü Check access to Television, cell phones, electronic
games and social media
