The Ideal Family: Strength of the Joint Family
Nowadays, joint families are uncommon, with nuclear families being more prevalent. Historically, joint families have been known for their strength and values, with all members adhering to established rules and regulations. Conversely, proponents of the 'Akel Chalo' or nuclear family concept advocate for an independent lifestyle. They believe in the right to live according to their own desires. However, when single parents are employed or run a business, they often need to entrust their young children to a nanny or daycare.
When parents are both working or running a business and leave their young children with a child care maid, the safety of these children can be compromised. In today's fast-paced society, finding trustworthy child care services is a challenging task for parents. However, reliable babysitters or child care services can be trusted. But what happens when child care maids betray this trust? In Delhi and other states, alarming incidents of cruelty towards children are being reported daily. This situation brings to mind the long-standing tradition of joint families, where children are surrounded by the love of parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, and other relatives. Recently, a horrific incident involving a 15-month-old girl at a day-care center in Noida has shocked the nation. CCTV footage showed a maid slapping the girl, throwing her to the ground, biting her, and even injuring her mouth with a pencil. Following a complaint from the girl's parents, a case has been filed against the day-care head and the maid involved. In the case of this young girl who suffered at the hands of the maid, it is crucial to understand the mindset of the accused. Experts suggest that such violent behavior often stems from a psychological process known as displacement. Individuals who have experienced mental, physical abuse, or domestic violence in their own childhood may carry these effects in their subconscious. When given the opportunity, they may express their anger and frustration on a vulnerable or defenseless person, as seen in this case with the young girl. This behavior is a deeply condemnable crime and reflects the moral decline in our society.
An ideal family is one where everyone resides under the care of their parents. When grandchildren or great-grandchildren live with their grandparents, the love among all members grows affectionately. I still support the concept of an ideal family. A joint family forms the foundation of ideal familial love. All members, both young and old, are willing to sacrifice for one another and empathize with each other's hardships. It is an ideal family where sorrow is shared during difficult times and love is shared during happy times, which grows through sharing. A joint family is crucial for strengthening bonds. The Ramayana imparts the sacred message of the relationships of an ideal brother, husband, wife, governance, renunciation, mother, and father. Kaikeyi's throne for Bharat and exile for Shri Ram may represent motherhood, but the acceptance of these circumstances highlights the sanctity of relationships in an ideal family. Overall, in today's world, due to parents' busy schedules, a joint family is a strong option, which is also vital for children's safety. If circumstances necessitate sending children to daycare, parents should remain vigilant. Doctors advise that if parents spend time with their children after daycare, they can notice any unusual changes. If a child suddenly becomes quiet and fearful or starts fearing strangers, parents should be cautious. Similarly, if a child's play habits change or they refuse to play, cling to their parents, refuse to go to daycare, cry, or if their eating, drinking, and sleeping routines are disrupted, these signs are concerning.
This indicates that the child has experienced some form of harassment at a daycare or another location. Experts suggest that to ensure children's safety and prevent such incidents, parents should select a daycare that has been established for a long time and has a strong reputation. It should be a place where many children attend, and the safety protocols are well-defined. The facility should have CCTV surveillance, and parents should be allowed to visit regularly. Additionally, parents should engage in daily conversations with their child and monitor their behavior closely. This incident serves as a reminder that neglecting children's safety can lead to severe consequences. A combination of vigilant parenting and stringent government oversight can help avert such incidents. Embracing a joint family system is also advisable.