Every child is a genius who needs the right environment to blossom and who will find expression only in an absolute relaxation. Their mind, and body will work best, only when they are joyful and peaceful not when they are constantly competing to be ahead of others. Sadly, competition has become an integral part of our education system and society. The repercussions of such approach are deleterious. Instead of relying upon their innate capabilities, children tend to lead a life that is entirely influenced by others. So, is there a need to introduce a change?
Do we need to embrace a new approach that brings back the focus on knowing oneself before they embark on a journey of outward learning? Do we need a 21st century curriculum which should be an amalgamation of the ancient organic methods of teaching and the latest scientific findings to unleash the true potential of an individual? Well, the answer is definitely yes!
Unarguably, we all agree that education should broaden the horizons, instil curiosity and kindle the spark to know more rather than forced learning. Besides that, the learning environment should be supportive, enriching and engaging. Nevertheless, one of the most important factors is that the learner should be enthralled and enthusiastic considering the fact that the knowledge can only be pulled in and never be pushed. Unfortunately, the rising academic demands have compelled educators to spend time and money on reforming and enhancing the learning environment, redesigning curriculum and standard testing; undermining the significance of training the learner to think for themselves and not to accept the preconceived ideas. How can we honour the unique journey of each individual through life? Unless, we introduce them to their inner world before the outward learning, their quest for a purposeful life will always be incomplete. Until they are aware of their unique strengths, passions and their darkest fears, they will lead a life devoid of wholeness.
In ancient times the early education was more child centric and wisdom was acquired from the experience children used to encounter in day to day lives. Instead of teaching the rote skills, the focus was mainly on overall development of child in terms of life skills, moral values, self-realisation and intellectual abilities. Children were equipped with true survival skills in order to evolve humanity. The education was focussed on the important aspect of personal fulfilment rather than on obtaining high test score. A similar balanced approach is required yet again that not only fulfils the academic attainment but also focuses on the overall development of a child. Yes, academic achievements are important but there are other values – self-awareness, courage, trust, cooperation, empathy, honesty, patience and hope –that ultimately make life worth living therefore should be promoted equally in the education system. Yes, there is a need to prioritise the goals of education.
As parents, teachers and caregivers, we need to embrace the methods and approaches that can be embedded in our daily routines to stimulate children’s highly active brains and to help them reach their true potential. Many scientific researches suggest that children below the age of 6- 7 do not show readiness for formal academic lessons whereas their imagination, ability to learn and creativity is far more advanced than adults. It is the time when a child’s brain is twice as active as of an adult’s brain and requires multiple interactions to develop and strengthen neural synapses responsible for the formation of their belief system which ultimately governs their choices in adulthood. Their perception about themselves and about the world is shaped depending upon these interactions. Therefore, it become vital that the child should be exposed to dynamic, creative, meaningful and multisensory experiences in their early years so that they are introduced to the adventures of learning, their own unique selves, the wonders of nature, the richness of daily experiences and the ecstasy of acquiring new abilities. This will allow them to embark on a journey to discover their true selves instead of being in a race to be ahead of others.
Another important factor is to bring a shift in our own though process. As adults, we need to prioritise what is important for our children to lead a purposeful life. Once we change our mindsets then only it’s possible to revolutionise the whole system. (Remember, educators/ policy makers only facilitate what we demand for.) To give our children the best start to their early lives, let’s change the paradigm of education. let’s create opportunities for them to learn the virtues that are important to lead a successful and blissful life. let’s incite curiosity and trigger their imaginations, while playing outdoors, during a leisurely walk in the lap of nature, while juggling daily chores, in the moments of difficulties and in the moments of joy. We have to consciously make an effort to navigate them to their inner wisdom and broaden the horizons of knowledge. For instance, during a leisurely walk, or outdoor learning sessions in schools, a meaningful conversation can be initiated by looking at different kinds of trees. Start asking questions about what they might know or like about trees depending upon the age. You can expect responses like they are big, I love their leaves, they give us shade and fruits. You can accentuate the value of sharing during this conversation. By explaining them how sharing without expectations can spread love and peace. Talk about how trees release oxygen in the environment to provide fresh air to us and absorb carbon dioxide released by us to purify the air. To keep them engaged, you can help them to collect leaves and ask them to paste them on a piece of paper or draw something around it, talk about the virtues they can learn from trees. Create affirmative phrases, write it and stick it somewhere children can see it regularly. This activity will not only keep their developing minds actively engaged but the facts and the virtues learnt will stay with them forever.
Similarly, during an academic lesson in a classroom, children can be taught many virtues while learning a new topic If we shift the parameters of testing from competition to competence. Regardless of whether children reached the correct answer or not, we can encourage them to think critically, form an opinion, embrace perseverance, and communicate effectively. Once they learn these skills, success is inevitable. We can even introduce a grade system for soft skills such as creativity, resilience and empathy in order to create competition to evolve humanity. Can you imagine the world where everyone is competing against each other to be more empathetic?
No matter what methods or activities we choose to impart education there is a need to redefine the prime objective which is to enhance over all development of a child instead of just academic credentials. Along with academic knowledge, they should be equipped with tools and skills that they need to follow their dreams and to make this world a better place.
Monica Sood
Co-Founder and Author, My World
www.myworldaim.co.uk
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