Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Cynthia Forde, made a special plea for Barbadian society to uplift boys at today’s National Children’s Service. (C.Pitt/BGIS)

Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Cynthia Forde, today made a special plea for Barbadian society to uplift boys, and give them the love and attention necessary to protect them from negative influences.

Speaking at the National Children’s Service held this morning at New Dimensions Ministries, in observance of Child Month, the Minister with responsibility for the Child Care Board said: “Too many children are left to fend for themselves, and then they get into negative habits.  I make a special plea for boys.

“Our boys need our love and attention as much as our girls, so society must give them that attention.  Love them; monitor their activities and friends; control the technology use; embrace our children,” she urged.

Highlighting the theme for Child Month, Celebrating the Champion in You, Minister Forde told the children in attendance that they were all champions, “beautifully and wonderfully made by God”.

While she acknowledged that there would always be challenges and setbacks in life, she told them that they must never allow these to daunt their spirits.  “Turn the stumbling blocks in your way into stepping stones, and instead of stumping your toes, step up on those blocks and overcome them.”

She also cautioned against allowing other people to squash their dreams. “People will compare you with others.  Do not allow anyone who makes those comparisons to deter you.  You must follow your dreams.  Have the fire in your belly to do everything you want to do.”

One highlight of the National Children’s Service was outstanding performances in song, dance and drama by primary and secondary school students from across Barbados.

joy.springer@barbados.gov.bb

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