Why is it that some kids just have the knack of doing the wrong thing whether it is regarding their room’s walls as a blackboard or attempting to climb into places which they shouldn’t like the toilet. Often it is the family’s animals that are the object of their naughtiness? Whatever it is, at least 10% of children will be egregious offenders whereas the other 90% will be model responsible children. As such they will never be a burden on their parents.

Dream on.

Main picture: Clearly this little boy knows that scibbling on the wall and “colouring-in” the dog were verboten, yet he did it. Why? Is this an indicator of a future delinquent or is it merely an example childhood naughtiness; a passing phase?

While the other 90% might not be as destructive as the former bunch, they can be just as problematic but in other more deceptive ways.

Unfortunately often these traits can be indicative of future traits as an adult. In one case, my son’s friend at Primary School is now as an adult, the grown-up version of his youthful deceitful and devious self. Perhaps these traits are finely honed over many years of trial and error and when they reach adulthood, it is so ingrained that it becomes the default position.

Fortunately, in my case, the children are grown up and responsible adults and any such traits have been outgrown.

Now I am waiting for the travails, tribulations and woes of the grandchildren.