I'm actually really disturbed by the replies of so many of the parents here (though not all). It's interesting to me that some of you have taken our criticism of bad PARENTING and twisted it into a hatred and dislike of children. That's not only really pathetic as an argumentative strategy, it's actually quite hurtful.
Read through my replies again. It's not about the kids at all. Children, especially young ones, are incredibly malleable. They need love and guidance to train them to be even better human beings. There are going to be bad days. Things are going to break. Things will be stained. Like I said before, who cares about things? I'd rather you put in the extra effort to raise a more well-rounded, social, and responsible child. If in the process, some ceramic knickknack breaks, who cares? It's about teaching kids. And though I always take the time to guide a child I know and love, no one is able to do that better than you -- the parents -- are.
Not only that, you are making excuses for people JUST BECAUSE they are parents. Obviously, so many of you are nothing like the negligent parents some of us have complained about. Despite that, you are being defensive FOR THEM just because they are parents.
Being a parent is probably the most difficult and most important job any of us will have. Despite that, reproducing does not automatically make you infallible. Being busy and overwhelmed does not automatically mean you are right.
you just said what i was trying to say in my post above, but better. i couldn't agree more!