The article “Two brats and a daughter, thrice blessed!” (Open Page, Nov. 21) was interesting. The single-child syndrome has deprived parents and grandparents of the joy of sharing work, sorrow and happiness, and bringing up children with a sense of responsibility.
Children brought up with siblings are more helpful and caring. In the past, parents with average means were able to bring up their children well. The children excelled in their chosen fields and made their parents and the nation proud.
Hasniya Khanum,
New Delhi
We make out a case for single-child families citing rising costs of education and housing. But have we bothered to ask the child what he or she wants? The child may not want a huge house or an expensive school. He or she may want a house filled with siblings and cousins. Most of us grew up in huge families and even today we have siblings to turn to in times of need. What right do we have to deprive our children of the same joys?
Sharada Sivaram,
Chennai
The single child is not necessarily pampered and spoilt. Even in a family with many children, it is easy to see one child getting pampered based on myriad reasons —‘better-looking,' ‘the last child,' ‘he is street-smart,' etc. Moreover, not all children in a large family grow up to be successful and well-adjusted adults.
What is the point in having many children when you are economically not sound yourself? It is also easier to sit down and have a good and long conversation with a single child without distraction from other demanding siblings. Single children get their share of social interaction at school and family functions.
S. Raghu,
Chennai
