AS a parent, I read with interest how many busy parents “outsource” their work in raising their kids to their maids at home. (”Maids taking over parenting role” — NST, May 10).

In many homes these days, both parents work to pay the bills.

But a better income does not mean a better quality of life for the family at home.

Children would rather spend more time with their parents than be given money or presents as substitutes for parental attention.

I believe children’s behaviour is the product of their environment. If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn. If they live with tolerance, they learn to be patient.

If children learn about sharing, they learn to be generous. If children live with praise, they learn to appreciate.

Child minders are not good role models for our young kids to follow as their norms and values may not be suited to local conditions.

HAMDAN IBRAHIM, Kuala Lumpur

Source: NST – May 20, 2008