Before teachers can even begin to teach, they must first get the attention of the children and maintain order in the classroom. Teachers spend a good part of the school day dealing with these two problems in particular.

This is because children lack social skills. They haven't learned to obey rules, to get along with others or respect the rights of others. Thus, they are disruptive in the classroom to their detriment and to that of others.

Parents, it is your responsibility to send your children to school armed with the social skills needed to succeed.

Only you can give your child one-on-one attention. Don't expect teachers to do it: they have 18-22 children to teach. People are quick to say all children don't learn in the same way; but, do you really expect teachers to come up with 18-22 different ways of getting each child to learn in his or her own way. Give me a break, and give teachers a break, too! Parents, you need to do more than feed, clothe and shelter your children. You take them on cruises, trips to exotic places, expensive soca concerts, inappropriate movies; give them a TV in their room to watch whatever they wish and, now, it's the computer to play games and surf the net indiscriminately.

Whether we like it or not, being quiet, sitting still, standing in line, etc., are all things we all have to do virtually from the cradle to the grave so they just have to get used to it: discipline.

KEEN OBSERVER City of Hamilton Pet owners take note October 13, 1999 Dear Sir, QUAFF, a volunteer, non-profit organisation, has been working for four years to get the UK's disgraceful Quarantine Laws changed and have recently challenged the MAFF in court since Quarantine is illegal under Community Law.

This has resulted in a recent announcement of change and the implementation of a pilot Passports for Pets scheme to start in April 2000. It only applies to animals coming from the European Union and excludes rabies-free islands until 2001. We are astonished that Bermuda is not included in the list of rabies-free islands being considered for inclusion in 2001.

We are aware of the tragic tale of Lord Waddington's dog which died in Quarantine. He was one of our early supporters.

In the meantime, we continue to advise all pet owners wishing to return to the UK of the options available, publish a Kennel report and would welcome contact from them directly or via our website, shown with our address.

May I suggest that you enquire as to what action your Government is taking to be included in the list of rabies-free islands promulgated on the MAFF website.

CFB HAMILTON Quaff ylagness.prestel.co.uk Chichester, West Sussex, England