Does your child look inward?

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Does your child look inward?

Once I was casually talking to school children. I observed that most children could not come up with answers to questions about what made them feel angry, sad , happy or ecstatic. This made me feel that today's children were not in the habit of introspecting or processing their thoughts.

Why is it anyway important for children to introspect?

Many of us, adults, must have experienced that introspection has its unique benefits. When we think about our day, what we felt, how we dealt with different situations -- we feel lighter. It's a process of unburdening, just like talking to a friend. As felt by many, reflecting, introspecting gives an intangible experience of growth and peace. Then why should we not inculcate this precious habit in our future generation? It would make a world of difference to all children if they were taught to speak their minds. For instance, a child capable of thinking by himself will be able to take his own decisions with regard to his academic interests. He will be able to concentrate on the subjects of his choice, especially in his dull moments.

Steps for inculcating introspection in children

Step 1 - Sharing the day

Introspection by its very nature requires reflection. Parents can aid this literal review of everyday happenings by asking children to narrate experiences. If the child does this daily, a habit builds up for lifetime. Also, if he sees his parents sharing their day with him, learning becomes easier. And of course this sharing gives the added benefit of building a warm bond between the parent and the child. It helps the child to resolve minor differences with the classmates.

Step 2 - Asking the right questions

The second step of introspection requires that parents ask questions at the right time, certainly not in the middle of a passionate narration. For instance, a child describes how he was able to get all the spellings correct in the class test, a parent can stop and ask and how did he feel then? Such questions help a child to feel confident

Step3 - Helping to find essence and preparing for the next day

The last step that parents can teach is to help the child learn from each day's experiences. It will help the child to learn from past mistakes. The child may be able to pass on this habit to his classmates. And in this way the introspection habit will help build impressionable minds of tomorrow's India.

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