Working hours are creating ‘a generation at risk’ charity says

A GENERATION AT RISK is what a children’s charity is calling the nation’s under-fives.

Tough financial times have forced 72 per cent of British parents to take on extra work to make ends meet, says communication charity I CAN and Openreach.

Their findings show that while parents of Early Years children know how important quality conversation with their children is, 35 per cent say they rarely have time to talk to them due to their working hours.

After getting back from work, 19 per cent state they are just too tired to talk to their children and a third find the time they do have is interrupted by calls and emails.

I CAN Communication Advisor, Kate Freeman said, “Parents want the best for their children and are well-informed about how important it is to chat with children in order to nurture their communication skills. They’re aware of the key milestones at the different ages and stages of development – but their best efforts are being hampered by the recession’s impact on their working hours.

“We’re concerned at the knock-on effect on young children who need verbal interaction to build their own speaking and understanding skills, specially in the early years. Without these skills they may start school with a lower level of language than expected at their age. The good news is that making time for chat and rhyme will help get children ‘communication fit’ and ready for school.”