Children
Children, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, are a highly vulnerable group. Welfare schemes like mid-day meals, child protection services, and scholarships target their nutrition, health, and education needs.
Laws prohibit child labor and ensure child rights. Specialized bodies like the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights work to safeguard the well-being and development of all children in the country.
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Parental Monitoring: Safety vs. Privacy
In today's digital age, children often need smartphones for schoolwork and other activities, but the internet can be a dangerous place for young minds. They may be unaware of phishing scams, explicit content, and other online threats. It's crucial for parents to protect their children without overlyRead more
In today’s digital age, children often need smartphones for schoolwork and other activities, but the internet can be a dangerous place for young minds. They may be unaware of phishing scams, explicit content, and other online threats. It’s crucial for parents to protect their children without overly infringing on their privacy and autonomy.
To strike this balance, parents can set rules and use parental control applications to block inappropriate content and monitor online activities. Modern parental control apps allow for remote monitoring, helping parents keep an eye on their child’s internet usage without being intrusive. By using these tools, parents can ensure their children are safe from harmful content while respecting their privacy and encouraging responsible internet use.
See lessEarly Education
Source: University of Colombo, Early Childhood Development Centre (ECDC). Retrieved from University of Colombo ECDC webpage. I) WHAT IS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (ECE)? Early childhood education (ECE) refers to the formal and informal educational programs and activities designed for childrenRead more
Source: University of Colombo, Early Childhood Development Centre (ECDC). Retrieved from University of Colombo ECDC webpage.
I) WHAT IS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (ECE)?
Early childhood education (ECE) refers to the formal and informal educational programs and activities designed for children from birth to the age of eight. This period is considered critical for cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. ECE encompasses a variety of settings, including preschools, kindergartens, nursery schools, and child care centres, and focuses on fostering foundational skills and knowledge that will support children throughout their educational journeys and beyond.
II) WHAT IS THE ROLE/IMPORTANCE OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (ECE) IN A CHILD’S OVERALL DEVELOPMENT?
According to our National Education Policy (or our NEP) 2020, ECE is essential for the development of cognitive, social, and emotional skills. This period is critical as 85% of a child’s cumulative brain development occurs before the age of six. Thus, ECE programs help in the holistic development of children, addressing their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs.
Pragmatic educational theorist, John Dewey, in his book ‘Experience and Education’, emphasised the importance of early education in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Dewey advocated for experiential learning, where children learn through doing and reflecting, thereby developing a love for learning that persists throughout their lives. Scholars and educationalists such as Rabindranath Tagore and Jiddu Krishnamurthi too, highlighted the significance of nurturing a child’s creativity and individuality. Tagore believed in an education system that is in harmony with the natural environment, which helps in the emotional and social development of children. Similarly, Krishnamurthi emphasised the importance of understanding and self-awareness in education.
III) HOW CAN WE ENSURE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HIGH-QUALITY EARLY LEARNING EXPERIENCES FOR ALL CHILDREN?
Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of education, Nai Talim (or Basic Education), advocated for an education system that is inclusive and accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds. To achieve this, there must be concerted efforts to provide resources and support to marginalised communities, ensuring that every child has access to quality early childhood education. In accordance with such ideas, the Right to Education (or the RTE) Act 2009 in India mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years (RTE Act 2009, Section 3). Extending this provision to ECE, as recommended by NEP 2020, can help ensure that all children have access to high-quality early learning experiences. NEP 2020 gives much importance to Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) as well, which is the ability to read and comprehend basic text and perform simple mathematical operations. Ensuring that children acquire these foundational skills by grade 3 is critical for their continued educational success.
IV) WHAT ALL CAN HELP?
Engaging parents and communities in the educational process is vital. Programs that educate parents about the importance of ECE and involve them in their children’s learning can significantly enhance the effectiveness of early education initiatives. Apart from that, encouraging collaboration between government bodies and private institutions can help in expanding the reach of ECE programs, especially in underserved areas. Investing in the training and continuous professional development of early childhood educators is equally essential. Well-trained teachers can provide high-quality education and care, fostering a conducive learning environment for young children, as also been highlighted by Maria Montessori in her book, ‘The Absorbent Mind’. Lastly, implementing robust monitoring and assessment frameworks can help in tracking the progress and effectiveness of plenty of ECE programs. This data can be used to make informed decisions and improvements in the curriculum and teaching methodologies.
See lessIndian Children
Parents and caregivers can support the emotional and mental well-being of Indian children by 1.Fostering open communication, 2.Promoting positive self-esteem 3.Teaching coping strategies 4.Fostering resilience 5.Seeking professional help when needed. By creating a safe space for children to expressRead more
Parents and caregivers can support the emotional and mental well-being of Indian children by
1.Fostering open communication,
2.Promoting positive self-esteem
3.Teaching coping strategies
4.Fostering resilience
5.Seeking professional help when needed.
By creating a safe space for children to express their feelings, praising their efforts, teaching them how to manage stress, encouraging problem-solving skills, and seeking help from professionals when necessary, parents and caregivers can help children develop emotional resilience and well-being. These actions can empower Indian children to navigate challenges, build self-confidence, and maintain good mental health as they grow and develop.
See lessChild labour
Yes, child labour should be completely ban because child labour destroys health, education and future of the children. In the case of orphan, there are orphanage for children, basic needs of orphan child is fulfilled there. There are so many NGOs also which help orphan. But if the child is sole breaRead more
Yes, child labour should be completely ban because child labour destroys health, education and future of the children. In the case of orphan, there are orphanage for children, basic needs of orphan child is fulfilled there. There are so many NGOs also which help orphan. But if the child is sole bread winner of the family if he/she does not work it may impact his family and there family will suffer because of no money , without money their families will not able to fulfil there basic needs also. Like this situation orphan child can get place to live in orphanage home but sole bread earner will have to face problems. Government has taken many measure to resolve the child labour issue. Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 which has placed a complete prohibition on the employment of children below age of 14 years, especially in hazardous situations or occupations. Right to education and National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme, it help children get education with vocational training at NCLP Centre . These measures save the children from being involved in labour but These measures does not look for the sole bread winner, because according the this measures if the child stop working, child and his/her family has to suffer. So to resolve this issue government should take some measures and provide some financial support and supporting community-based programs that focus on family welfare and child protection. This can help address the root causes of child labour.
See lessHow does a teacher's attitude towards school children influence their academic performance, emotional well-being, and overall development?
A teacher's attitude towards school children can significantly shape their academic performance, emotional well-being, and overall development. When teachers show enthusiasm, patience, and respect, students feel more valued and motivated to learn. This positive environment encourages students to engRead more
A teacher’s attitude towards school children can significantly shape their academic performance, emotional well-being, and overall development. When teachers show enthusiasm, patience, and respect, students feel more valued and motivated to learn. This positive environment encourages students to engage more actively in their studies and achieve better grades. A caring attitude helps students feel safe and supported, which boosts their emotional well-being and confidence. On the other hand, if a teacher is negative or dismissive, it can lead to anxiety and lower self-esteem among students, hindering their ability to learn effectively. In short, a teacher’s positive attitude not only helps students excel academically but also supports their emotional growth and personal development, creating a nurturing and inspiring classroom experience.
See lessDo you think the words that parents use imprint on children's minds?
It is well recognized that parents play such an important role in the lives of their children and they do this through the way they communicate. Language serves as a medium of not only providing information but also affecting a child's personality, beliefs, and how they interact with the world. PosiRead more
It is well recognized that parents play such an important role in the lives of their children and they do this through the way they communicate. Language serves as a medium of not only providing information but also affecting a child’s personality, beliefs, and how they interact with the world. Positive reinforcements are the fuel of confidence and the building block of resilience whereas negative feedback is the bedrock of insecurity and self-doubt.
See lessFirstly, the early exposure to language shapes the way children communicate not only in the preschool period but also the rest of their lives. Parents should realize that the way they talk to their children can influence the kids’ self-esteem and their ability to build up relationships.
In addition, the language used by parents continues to affect children even in their adulthood life, consequently shaping career success, mental stability, and the approach to parenting. To be precise often, the behavioral patterns that are cultivated in young life are the reasons that some people communicate or are even self-deprecating.
Being aware that language is powerful, parents are advised to create an atmosphere of mutual and development-oriented communication. Parents develop their children by empowering their words that bring out childhood curiosity, empathy, and development that will boost their children’s positive development which will also lead to their future success.
What are the key factors that contribute to healthy cognitive and emotional development in young children?
Nurturing Relationships: Strong bonds with caregivers provide a secure base for exploration and learning. Stimulating Environment: Exposure to diverse experiences, toys, and books enriches cognitive development. Healthy Nutrition: Proper nourishment supports brain growth and function. Adequate SleepRead more
- Nurturing Relationships: Strong bonds with caregivers provide a secure base for exploration and learning.
- Stimulating Environment: Exposure to diverse experiences, toys, and books enriches cognitive development.
- Healthy Nutrition: Proper nourishment supports brain growth and function.
- Adequate Sleep: Sufficient rest is essential for cognitive consolidation and emotional regulation.
- Responsive Caregiving: Timely and appropriate responses to a child’s needs foster trust and security.
- Language Rich Environment: Talking, reading, and singing to children expand vocabulary and language skills.
- Physical Activity: Play and exercise promote brain development and emotional well-being.
- Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing developmental delays early can make a significant difference.
See lessChildren's mental health
A child's home environment is the cornerstone of their development. A toxic home, rife with conflict, abuse, or neglect, can have profound and lasting consequences. Children exposed to such environments often suffer from emotional turmoil, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Their cRead more
A child’s home environment is the cornerstone of their development. A toxic home, rife with conflict, abuse, or neglect, can have profound and lasting consequences. Children exposed to such environments often suffer from emotional turmoil, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Their cognitive development may be hindered, impacting their academic performance and future potential. Physical health can also deteriorate due to stress and malnutrition. Moreover, witnessing violence or being subjected to it can lead to aggressive behavior, difficulty in forming healthy relationships, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. A nurturing home is essential for a child’s holistic well-being, and its absence can cast a long shadow over their life.
See lessHow can parents support their children's learning at home?
"Home is the first school". Parents are responsible for the education and learning of their kids. A child starts his/her learning at their home from the time when he/she was a toddler.when the kid born , firstly he starts hearing and understanding the words , speaking some part of the native languagRead more
- “Home is the first school”. Parents are responsible for the education and learning of their kids. A child starts his/her learning at their home from the time when he/she was a toddler.when the kid born , firstly he starts hearing and understanding the words , speaking some part of the native language, understanding the gestures and other things. As the time passes parents help the child in their primary studies by teaching or by hiring a tutor. But as the kid grows and ages , he starts studying on its own or get enrolled in the coaching. At that time their are some ways by which parents can simply support their children’s learning at home .
- 1. Emotional support – parents should give the emotional support and encouragement to the child. They shouldn’t put so much pressure on the child instead just say motivational things like “we believe in you” , “you can do it” etc. because of this the kid wont be pressurized or demotivate and it’ll lead him to try harder.
- Stationary support – if your child needs something like , copies , books , another supplies for studies, try not to avoid or ignore that.
- Moral support – always teach your children that cheating isn’t the solution. Don’t degrade your child over marks or compare them to others.
- Educational support – try to participate in their life. Teach them by yourself little by little. Ask them if they have confusion or wants to understand something.
- Check on them – ask them about school , coaching, teachers. That if they have any problem in understanding any lessons in school or in tution.
- Promote education – make an educational environment in your home. Promote studies and appreciate your child over good things .
See lessHow to deal with anger issues in children?
Dealing with children's anger involves understanding triggers and teaching emotional management. Identify triggers and recognize signs like clenched fists or raised voices. Management Strategies: Emotional Awareness: Help your child identify and name their emotions. Model Calmness: Demonstrate stayiRead more
Dealing with children’s anger involves understanding triggers and teaching emotional management. Identify triggers and recognize signs like clenched fists or raised voices.
Management Strategies:
See lessEmotional Awareness: Help your child identify and name their emotions.
Model Calmness: Demonstrate staying calm and handling frustration.
Safe Space: Provide a quiet area for calming down.
Physical Activity: Encourage exercise to release energy and reduce stress.
Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises together.
Creative Outlets: Use activities like drawing or writing to express feelings.
Problem-Solving Skills: Teach conflict resolution through role-playing.
Clear Boundaries: Set and enforce consistent rules about behavior.
Communication and Support:
Active Listening: Validate and empathize with your child’s feelings.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise appropriate handling of anger.
Stay Calm: Keep your emotions in check to de-escalate situations.
Professional Help and Preventive Measures:
Counseling: Seek a psychologist if issues persist.
Parenting Programs: Join programs for behavior management.
Consistent Routine: Maintain stability with daily routines.
Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and regular activity.
Family Time: Strengthen bonds and provide support.
These strategies help children manage anger and improve emotional well-being.