As India celebrates Children’s Day today, the importance of nurturing an inclusive, balanced, and resilient educational environment for children has never been more pressing. In an era where traditional and digital worlds collide, children face a unique blend of challenges that past generations could hardly envision. Thought leaders in education emphasise the need for a proactive approach that considers both intellectual growth and emotional well-being, equipping young learners to not only survive but thrive.
Urgent educational and emotional challenges
Raj Singhal, Co-founder and CEO of Footprints Childcare, draws attention to the urgent issues that need immediate action. “Today’s children face critical challenges that require immediate action. Globally, 244 million are out of school, and many lack internet access, widening educational gaps, especially in disadvantaged communities,” Singhal notes. With 1 billion children vulnerable to climate change and mental health challenges affecting up to 20%, these issues pose a profound impact on children’s present and future well-being.
From basic access to education to mental health support and climate stability, today’s children experience a breadth of adversities that can impair their development. The digital landscape, too, brings additional layers of responsibility. “With the rise of AI and digital platforms, protecting children’s privacy and mental health is crucial. We must build a world where every child is safe, supported, and able to thrive,” adds Singhal.
Creating learning spaces that prioritise holistic development
Addressing these complex challenges requires a paradigm shift in education—one that integrates emotional intelligence, resilience and life skills alongside academics. Manish Rastogi, CEO of Zee Learn, underscores the importance of creating well-rounded learning environments. “This Children’s Day we should remind ourselves of our shared responsibility to create learning spaces prioritising resilience, emotional intelligence and balanced development,” says Rastogi.
Today’s academic pressures are compounded by the hyper-digital nature of children’s environments, which intensifies stress levels and sometimes detracts from the development of essential life skills. Rastogi advocates for a holistic education system, “It’s essential that we foster an education system that nurtures both their intellectual growth and emotional well-being. As educators, parents and a society, we must champion approaches that equip children not only with knowledge but with the life skills, empathy, and adaptability they need.”
On this Children’s Day, educators, parents and policymakers are called upon to reimagine educational approaches to better serve today’s children and meet their unique needs. A child-centred educational framework that promotes resilience, empathy, and adaptability can be the foundation for a better future.
By integrating emotional and academic support, ensuring safe and inclusive access to technology, and addressing larger issues like climate change and mental health, we can work collectively to create a world where every child has the opportunity to flourish.