Im late to this discussion but in my (professional and personal) experience I think there are two views of neglect- a very hard line is the child fed, clean and safe and a more holistic view that encompasses emotional aspects of care- does a child feel valued and heard, do they feel nutured and supported in relation to their strengths and challenges. And the biggest thing you can give to the latter is your time and energy.
I don’t think anyone could deny the two children are given a safe, warm place to live. They are clothed. They are fed. But I do honestly feel like both G&C are not fully present to provide that emotional piece. At times I think she is definitely frustrated by, and avoidant of, the mundane aspects of parenting (early rising for example) and does come across as a touch hostile towards the children if they interrupt her. But mostly I think it is boderline obvious that she does not want to invest time into the care and nuturing of them at the expense of time spent on herself or with Chris.
Does this make her a terrible mother? No. Not in the strict sense of the term neglect.
But does she lack presence and patience in relation to her children? In my view yes, based mostly on the clear evidence that she is away from them a lot and in opportunistic ways.
Just my two cents.
Anyway the way Mags spoke to her daughter was actually disgusting. She was wrecked and Whingy like kids get and Mags starts calling her a stupid and silly it was more her tone of voice she was spitting venom. Both Mongey girls seem to hate their kids. Linzi stepped in and calmed her down and was actually respectful to the child. Couldn’t believe it to be honest I was mortified for her
it obviously runs in the family as we’ve all seen grace with her vicious tongue
everyone needs a break.. but when you seem happiest when away from the kids, that's a problem ..
