THE founder of a leading social enterprise group today warns that Scotland must dedicate more time to children to allow them to flourish.
Alan Sinclair, founder of the Wise Group, claims the country has practised "avoidant parenting" for too long and wants more action to be taken to combat mental health and social problems in youngsters.
In his report, Early Years And Transformational Change, Mr Sinclair claims family centres should be introduced to offer families tailored support to ensure vulnerable youngsters are given the help they deserve.
He also claims parents themselves need to spend more time with their children.
Mr Sinclair said: "In the past five years there has been a lot more talk in Scotland about parenting and early years without a matching practical response.
"Politicians and commentators who talk about budgets, the constitution and economic growth occupy centre stage doing 'real' work. Meanwhile health, education and local authorities are trying to deliver the services that can make or break our children's and therefore our country's future.
"We have practised 'avoidant parenting' for too long. The result is a recipe for mental health problems and social ills.
"We wait until parents and children have really serious problems, when mayhem breaks out and then we make serious interventions. We miss the opportunity to practise prevention and early intervention. In the end it costs us more."
He added: "We all need to find it in ourselves to give more time to parenting and to be better parents – across the class divide."
The report comes as Scottish children's charity Children 1ST revealed youngsters are often subjected to intimidation and abuse from adults while taking part in sports.
In a survey by the charity, many revealed they had been shouted and sworn at, while some under-12s had also been pushed, hit, kicked or punched.
It has now launched the Sideline Bad Behaviour campaign in a bid to combat the abuse.
Alison Todd, a director, said: "Young people used words like 'intimidating, angry, and scary' to describe the way they were spoken to by adults. Through this campaign we're saying that's unacceptable."
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