The values we teach children today become the foundation of the
adults they become tomorrow.
We often wonder why children behave in a particular way, why some
are confident while others are hesitant, why some are kind and considerate
while others find it difficult to share or understand another person's
feelings. The answer may lie much closer to home than we imagine.
The beautiful message in the picture, "Children Learn What
They Live," reminds us of one important truth: children learn not merely
from what we tell them but, more importantly, from what they see, hear and
experience every day.
A child who grows up surrounded by criticism may learn to
criticise others. A child who experiences hostility may respond with anger and
aggression. When children are constantly ridiculed, they may become shy and
lose confidence. Shame and harsh words can make them feel guilty and insecure.
On the other hand, a child who receives tolerance learns patience.
Encouragement builds confidence. Appreciation teaches gratitude, while fairness
helps children understand justice. When children grow up in a secure
environment, they develop faith and trust. Approval and affection help them
like and respect themselves.
Above all, when children experience acceptance and friendship, they
learn to find love in the world.
A message to parents
Parenting is not simply about providing food, clothing, education
and other comforts. It is also about creating an atmosphere in which children
feel safe, valued and loved.
Parents are the first teachers in a child's life. Children observe
how parents speak to each other, how they treat elders, how they respond to
disagreements and how they behave towards people around them. These everyday
experiences leave lasting impressions.
We may teach children to speak politely, but do we always practise
it ourselves? We may ask them to be patient, but do we lose our temper over
small mistakes? We expect them to share, care and respect others, but do they
see us doing the same?
Instead of comparing children with their friends or siblings,
encourage them to recognise their own strengths. Instead of pointing out every
mistake, appreciate their efforts. Allow them to ask questions, express
opinions and learn from failures.
A little encouragement can make a child believe in himself or
herself. A few kind words can make a difficult day easier.
A message to children
Dear children, remember that you are growing and learning every
day. You need not be perfect in everything you do. It is perfectly fine to make
mistakes, ask questions and try again.
Be kind to your friends, respect your elders, share what you can
and learn to accept differences. Do not make fun of someone because they are
different from you. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses.
Have confidence in yourself, appreciate what others do for you and
never hesitate to say sorry or thank you. Most importantly, learn to treat
others the way you would like to be treated.
Let us practise what we teach
Childhood is not just a preparation for adulthood; it is an
important part of life in itself. The experiences children gather during these
formative years influence their thoughts, attitudes and relationships.
Schools, teachers, grandparents, relatives and society also have
an important role to play. Every interaction can teach a value, consciously or
unconsciously.
We cannot expect children to grow into kind, patient, confident
and responsible individuals merely by giving them instructions. We must
demonstrate these qualities through our own actions.
Let us give children less criticism and more encouragement, less
comparison and more appreciation, less fear and more security, and above all,
more love and acceptance.
After all, children may not always remember everything we tell
them, but they are likely to remember how we made them feel.
What children live, they learn. Let us make sure they live with
kindness, confidence, fairness, friendship and love.
"Every child is a reflection of the environment in which he
or she grows. Let us create a world where children learn not just to succeed,
but also to care, share, respect and love."
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