Thousands of children were always going to be upset by the tragic death of one of their most-loved TV presenters, but it’s emerged that some parents have complained to the BBC about Newsround’s coverage of Mark Speight’s suicide.

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This is just ridiculous: parents who want a news programme to report only positive stories to their kids? Who are they trying to kid?

What is the world coming to?

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Well the article (from Heat magazine!) says Newsround didn't use the word suicide or go into details about him hanging himself. I don't think you should protect children overmuch from this sort of news. As long as it is discussed in an appropriate manner - wonder if they discussed the drug overdose either?

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I agree entirely as death is something that happens to everyone. Kids are not stupid and will find out about stuff regardless.

I remember my grandfolks finding out about my aunty having cancer, when I was at their house (I was about 11 at the time) - my Grandma was quite upset, and they had to tell me why, as I asked them what was going on. I then had to keep it a secret from my Mum, so as not to get her upset.

My aunty died from the disease, but for some reason I didn't go to the funeral either.

What are people's thoughts on children and funerals?

I think once they are old enough to understand, and if it is a close relative, or someone significant in that person's life, then they should go along to.

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Kids know about death sure, but suicide is a different ball park that children find more difficult to comprehend.

Explaining that someone willing killed themselves and the reasons why can be confusing as children and adults for that matter also cannot understand why someone would necessarily want to unless they are adept at empathising.

I do not think people should complain on how it is reported to protect children from the world although tact should be used in a children's news programme which I think they did use.

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"Mommy, mommy. I want to dangle from the ceiling of Paddington station just like my hero Mark Speight!"

I was actually skiving off work and caught this on Newsround. I thought it was handled quite sensitively myself.

I think this does tie in quite well with the thread in the parenting section about kids I feel.

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Yeah, it is another example of the over-coddling of today's children.

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