A pep talk for parents

Children are precious. But at times, it is difficult for adults to understand their needs. Maria Montessori suggested that we should follow the child, but it is not an easy task. 

There is no replacement for observation, patience, awareness. This essentially begins at home when the parents interact with the toddler. Hence, parents need to be guided in order to enable any work the educator does with the child in school. 

But often, parents are thrown into the deep end while struggling with other responsibilities. This is further exacerbated when considering parents from marginalized backgrounds & low education levels. Their children are often first generation learners, and coupled with their demanding service and labour jobs, parents are unable to provide kids the academic support they often need. Variation in the expected milestones in development of kids often cause a sense of despair in parents; they feel helpless!

However, no one can deny their unconditional love for their child.  If parents are able and willing to work with teachers to support their kids academically, half the battle is won! Moreover a realistic expectation from their children, without a tendency to compare or demand performance, is essential. 

Systems and research give us solutions. Based on an Individual Education Plan set by a qualified and experienced clinical psychologist, individual work with the child can help us meet them where they are, and if needed, reverse any learning challenges or disabilities, or personality issues. Problems like dyslexia, dyscalculia, inattention and hyperactivity (ADHD) stem from several issues. These can be solved by targeted support.

Early recognition of the concern areas and "one on one" teaching modules can bring about sufficient improvement, and develop a sense of stability and progress in the child. Students then have the mind space to discover their other interests such as art, dance, creative out-of-the-box thinking, or just basic goodness!

We try working with our students’ parents by calling them over for frank but sensitive conversations. We also try to understand their point of view. Practical tips pertaining to nutrition & communication styles are provided to enhance their holistic health & development. However, the first step for these efforts to bear fruit is for parents to empathize with their children. One of the best methods which always works wonders is to talk to the child when he/she is about to sleep, and instil positive thoughts to bring about deeper level transformation.

The parents, special educators and the peer group collectively need to play a conducive role to provide an atmosphere of love, exploration and understanding both at home and school.