"Helicopter parenting" is indeed a problem faced by schools (More schools shoot down 'helicopter parenting'; June 26).

It is not uncommon to see parents, grandparents or domestic helpers crowding around a school's guard post or general office to pass books or other items to students who have left these things at home.

Instead of expecting schools to allow such a practice, parents should instead try to instil a sense of responsibility in their children.

For a start, parents should ensure that their children pack what they need for the next day into their schoolbags before they go to bed. And if the youngsters do not do so, they must face the consequences.

Many values which are supposed to be taught by parents have somehow become the schools' responsibility.

During exams, there are spare calculators, pencils and erasers prepared for students who might have forgotten to bring along such items; reminders of important events or assignments are also sent out to students.

Today's children are too pampered and self-centred.

Parents should not bail their children out each time they face a setback. Children must be taught to face the consequences of their actions.

Evelyn Chan Wai Yee (Madam)