Eight-year-olds are copying behaviour they watch on TV show Love Island, it's been reported.
A headteacher has written to parents complaining that year four pupils have been commenting on each other’s appearance and “pairing individuals together”.
Aled Rees, of Ysgol Gymraeg Teilo Sant in Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, has told parents the ITV show’s contestants are “no role models for our children”, according to our sister paper WalesOnline .
After investigating bullying claims, bosses at the school found out a number of children had been watching the hit dating reality show.
Love Island contestants share a Spanish villa where they are encouraged to couple up to win a cash prize at the end.
Both men and women contestants spend most of their time in revealing swimwear throughout the show.
In the letter, Mr Rees says: "Dear parents, it has been brought to my attention that some of our pupils are watching the Love Island programme. Some of these children are as young as eight years old.
"I am of the opinion that primary pupils aren’t mature enough to watch a programme of this nature where a person’s appearance is more important than their personality.
"This isn’t the kind of message that we promote in the school. These individuals are no role models for our children and I would encourage you to consider whether the programme, language and sexual nature is a thing that you wish your children to see, hear and emulate.
"The influence of the programme has led to pupils commenting on others’ appearance and pairing individuals together as they are a 'good match'.
"I’m sure that there are better ways to spend time with your children and more appropriate programmes they could be watching.
"I sincerely hope that you consider the content of this letter seriously (which, incidentally, is in keeping with the Galw Ennau/Name Calling letter previously posted on the app) and that we will have to deal with fewer incidences in the school as a result. Thank you for your co-operation."
Mr Rees said it was important to tell parents if what they are doing at home impacts behaviour at school.
Are you concerned about the effect Love Island is having on children? Email emma.grimshaw@reachplc.com
For the latest news in and around Bristol check back on Bristol Live's homepage
