Emotional Immaturity and Speech Disorders: Why 45 Children in Podgorica Are Delayed from Starting First Grade?
Did you know that 45 children in Podgorica’s primary schools will not start first grade this year? Yes, you read that right! The principal of Oktoih Elementary School, Jasna Radović, reveals that the number of children whose school enrollment is postponed is increasing. The main reasons are emotional and social immaturity, speech problems, poor memory, and lack of attention.
Technology: A Double-Edged Sword
Psychologist Stela Burzanović warns that modern technology, despite its benefits, actually hinders children’s development. Kids today spend too much time in front of screens, which destroys their social skills and communication abilities. The result? They lose focus, attention, and do not develop speech properly.
Speech Therapy and Parental Responsibility
Speech therapist Dušica Šćepanović emphasizes that with timely assessment and treatment, children with speech disorders can catch up with their peers. But who is to blame for this not happening? Parents! They spend less and less time with their children, depriving them of a sense of belonging and social connections. Pediatricians and educators play a key role in early detection of problems and guiding parents.
Kindergarten as Preparation for School
Burzanović highlights that attending kindergarten, especially in the third year, plays a huge role in children’s development. Kindergarten is not just childcare; it’s where children gain their first social skills, meet teachers and friends, and prepare for school.
How to Reduce the Number of Postponements?
The solution lies in raising awareness among parents and professionals, preventive measures, and involving all relevant parties. Children should develop in a healthy and natural way, not become victims of the fast pace of modern life and excessive use of technology.
Conclusion
Will we allow our children to become a generation that cannot communicate, cannot focus, and is emotionally immature? Or will we finally realize it’s time to return to basics — play, conversation, socializing, and genuine attention? If you have children or know someone who does, maybe it’s time to ask yourself how much time you spend with them and how it affects their development.
What about you? Have you noticed that kids today talk less, play together less, and lose attention faster? Share your thoughts — maybe together we can find a solution!
Slug: emotional-immaturity-speech-disorders-delay-enrollment-podgorica
