KAMPALA, Uganda — Child psychologists are raising concerns about a growing trend of emotional abuse inflicted on kindergarten children during early morning school preparations.
Experts say the children, whose natural sleep cycles require ample rest, are being roused at dawn, often earlier than university students, to accommodate parents’ work schedules.
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Many parents, with early start times, wake their children around 5 a.m., rushing them through morning routines before dropping them at school or placing them on school shuttles. Some parents reportedly return to bed after sending their children off.
The sight of drowsy children on early-morning school shuttles highlights the impact of these early wake-ups.
Beyond the early hours, the morning routine is often marked by verbal abuse and emotional intimidation, particularly from mothers. The pressure to expedite tasks leads to shouting and harsh words, potentially causing lasting emotional harm.
Fathers are increasingly intervening, noting a decrease in children’s distress when they manage the morning routine.
“A child’s emotional well-being is shaped by their experiences, especially in the early morning,” said Dr. David Musasizi, a child psychologist. “The way they are treated during their morning routine can set the tone for their entire day. Emotional abuse, even in small doses, can have long-lasting effects.”
The issue has prompted calls for schools and workplaces to accommodate parents with young children. Some parents are seeking flexible work schedules or schools with later start times.
Experts emphasize the importance of calm, nurturing mornings for young children, free from emotional abuse and the stress of premature wake-ups.
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