More than half of today's toddler rainwear customers dish out less discipline than previous generations of parents.

This is according to a new survey by youth organisation Cadet150, which found 55 per cent of mums and dads admit they are less strict than their own parents.

One-third of those polled admitted to being a "pushover", while 25 per cent avoid conflict with their offspring to enjoy an "easy life".

Perhaps not surprisingly, 85 per cent of parents polled said today's kids have little or no discipline as a result of this approach.

A spokesman for Cadet150 suggested mums and dads want to be seen as friends of their children rather than their elders.

"Getting involved in exciting and challenging structured activities in their spare time can help children and young people discover the benefits of self-discipline, teamwork and respect for others," he said.

Run by the Ministry of Defence, Cadet150 is 150 years old and is made up of four organisations covering the army, the sea, air and vocational qualifications.ADNFCR-3005-ID-19620497-ADNFCR