All children are vulnerable as they grow up. They face several challenges that range from kidnaps, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse, peer rejection, mental health issues, bullying, peer pressure, mistreatment, and harassment from fellow children and adults.

Peer pressure is common at all ages. It is among people with similar characteristics who may pursue similar interests when they get together.

Osio Ogbu in The Moon Also Sets depicts a widowed mother whose husband dies and leaves her with children, the firstborn of whom is Oby. The in-laws bother her so much that they want her to forcefully marry Uncle Ben, her late husband’s younger brother, in order to take control of the land. She confidently refuses and apologises for her unfavourable response to their request due to her ideals, dedication, and strength. They become enraged with her, but Mama Oby is preoccupied with her children. She works hard to ensure that Oby attends university and that her siblings receive an education as well. Oby enrols at the University of Embakassi and struggles greatly to adjust to the modern environment that is so different from theirs.

Most children report back to school this week and next week. Take time to talk to them because there is too much pressure this term.

Oftentimes, our children can choose to be very stubborn or disobedient, and as a parent, you feel there is nothing more you can do for this child.

I listened to a lady’s account of being a single mother after her husband’s untimely death. Her story resonated with me, highlighting the profound impact of grief.