Parenting, Should it Be Licensed?

Okay, we can't actually do this, but it's sure worth giving some thought to!

How many times has it crossed your mind that people should have to be licensed in order to have children? It has mine, on several occasions, especially when I've witnessed just how stupid some parents can be. It makes me wonder how they're capable of looking after or teaching their own children when they themselves just don't seem to know much about life (or anything in general for that matter), not to mention that parental stupidity can actually be of harm to their own children.

A case in point, when Michael Jackson held his young son over the railing of a high-rise hotel balcony for the fans. First of all, how were the fans to actually see the child with a scarf draped over its head? Secondly, but more importantly, if stupidity was against the law, the authorities would have had to confiscate the child right there and then. It was a direct hazard to the child and could have cost him his life had Michael lost hold of him, subsequently, dropping the child to the ground below. Or, as with Brittany Spears, driving with her child in her lap. Yes, these might be extreme cases, but makes for a prime example as to how some parents just don't think of their own child's proper care and welfare. The slightest indiscretion or negligent behaviour can be dangerous or even fatal. As well, not all parental stupidity has been caught on tape for the world to see.

When bringing children into the world, one really must consider the drastic life change that is required. You are no longer a child yourself when you have children, so it's definitely time to do some serious growing up. Children do not raise or teach themselves. Often times, children learn by example and if stupidity is their example during their informative years, they will learn very little, thus perpetuating the cycle. Also, children rely on the parent for direction and guidance, not just meeting their daily needs. If a parent isn't capable of offering proper direction, it can be very detrimental to the child's life and well-being.