Nursery World - Parents given no choice in smacking debate

After listening to the various broadcasts and interviews concerning the Government's plans to allow registered childminders to smack children and smoke in front of them, I realise that members of the public are swallowing the education secretary's red herring. To me, a childminder and unconsulted parent of four, it seems that both David Blunkett and the employment and equal opportunities minister Margaret Hodge have allowed it to be understood that the issue is about parental choice. It is not, of course. If parents truly believe that they should be able to direct childminders to hit their children and smoke in front of them, then surely it follows that they would feel the same about their children in nurseries and schools. So why were they not questioned accordingly?

To me, a childminder and unconsulted parent of four, it seems that both David Blunkett and the employment and equal opportunities minister Margaret Hodge have allowed it to be understood that the issue is about parental choice. It is not, of course. If parents truly believe that they should be able to direct childminders to hit their children and smoke in front of them, then surely it follows that they would feel the same about their children in nurseries and schools. So why were they not questioned accordingly?

Mrs Hodge claims to be balancing the views of the majority of parents against 'some childcare groups'. Perhaps she could tell us which childcare groups take the Government's line? And which parents have had all the issues held up before them prior to being asked for a view?

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included