“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about” – Angela Schwindt.
As a parent I was surprised when my daughter behaved like a mother to my son when there was an age difference between them. Even when she was small, she had that mother instinct within her. I used to tell my son that she is his second mother. She takes care of her brother very well and always has respect and kindness towards him and elders. She has not even called her brother by his name. She always calls him by her mother tongue (Anna).
Even during her school activities, she always thought about the family and used to get something for everyone in the family. I was surprised when she got a book for her father, pen for me and a scale for her brother when she was in grade 1, during her math bazaar.
I am surprised when she wholeheartedly contributes to charity and others. She understands when she needs something from the shop and when we tell her that we will get it later, she understands the situation and just walks along with us without any frustration or tears in her eyes.
She understands everything that we tell or teach her at home. We need to just tell her once or twice for her practices and she follows it. Even when somebody is sick in the family she prays and makes the person comfortable. That’s a big lesson I learned from her.
She likes to help her parents and her siblings. She is always open and always tries to help everyone. She volunteers herself to help others and parents. She is very adaptable when we are outside or in the family or with the friends. She is very kind and respectful with others and parents.
All these four years of school, she was praised by all her teachers and there was no negative remark from the school. We feel so happy and proud about the kid as a parent. There was always a wholehearted participation in every activity in class, in school like music, dance. I really feel very proud of my daughter whenever I see her performing in stage very well. The school supports my child and encourages her to do better and make her shine brighter. It is because of the school and home support she can do or perform very well.
The perspective goals that can encourage other parents are:
- The power of letting them try everything on their own. It is okay to face small frustrations, that’s where confidence blooms.
- Listening changes everything in a child’s behavior or moods.
3. A small act can make a big change. Parents are encouraged to create a
small rituals that build connection and gratitude.
- Finding grace in imperfection is a reminder that love doesn’t require perfection. Sharing can reassure that other parents’ mistakes don’t define us. The child forgives the parent quickly.
The child is an unexpected teacher when we make a mistake and reminds us to use the golden words. It is a moment when they become teachers to us.
Other parents might find hope knowing that growth is mutual – parenting is a two-way education.
Sindhuja Anandaraj
Parent of Kanishka Anandaraj 2E
