Parents in Thika West sub-county have been urged to be vigilant to ensure that their children who just completed their primary and secondary school education do not go astray.
Speaking in her office on Friday, Thika West children's officer Rebecca Kariuki termed this as the make or break period for the school leavers at both levels.
"Parents must not divert their attention from these kids because whether they left class eight or Form Four both have a common denominator which is transitioning", Kariuki said.
She added that at this level, the children have an exaggerated feeling of self-importance and achievement which if not well checked, could lead them in the wrong direction.
"Primary school leavers are transitioning to adolescence while most of the Form Four leavers are getting into adulthood. Parents must be there for these children to offer guidance and ensure that they transition smoothly", she said.
The officer also asked parents to engage the leavers especially the Form Four ones through short courses like computer packages, hairdressing, tailoring to name but a few which will keep the leavers engaged as they await their exam results.