The Secret to Academic Success in Indian Schools: Kindness!

India is home to bright minds who have the potential for greater things. However, they fall victim to the education system that makes learning seem harder than it needs to be. Kindness is a subtle yet powerful force that transforms the educational journey of children. Imagine if that one teacher hadn’t believed in your potential when you were a kid. Would you have the confidence to do more? While academic excellence is often prioritized, the importance of kindness towards children cannot be understated, especially in the highly competitive nature of Indian schools.

Why do we need kindness towards children in schools?

One act of kindness becomes a highlight in our day, doesn’t it? Imagine what a compassionate environment can do for our children. Among other benefits, kindness:

1) Creates a positive learning environment

Remember that shy student hiding in the corner? Kindness can be their sunshine. When children are treated with respect and encouragement, their confidence gets a much-needed nudge. A simple "good job" on a difficult problem or a helping hand with a confusing concept can make a world of difference. Kindness gives them a sense of belonging, letting children know their efforts are valued. This feeling of support encourages the child to be more involved, ask questions, and push their potential, leading to better learning.

2) Cares for their mental health

Unfortunately, poor mental health is a growing concern among youth today. From exams to social pressures, our children face numerous challenges. A kind and supportive school environment acts as a buffer against these stressors. When students know they can count on understanding from their teachers and acceptance from their peers, they're better equipped to handle the ups and downs of academic life. In these years of formative emotional development, children also learn how to navigate their emotions and social interactions.

3) Helps combat bullying

Bullying is a serious issue in schools worldwide, and India is no exception. This seemingly short-term experience can have long-lasting effects on a child’s mental and emotional health. With kindness, children learn empathy and learn to value the feelings of others. When children are taught to value compassion and respect for others, they're less likely to engage in or tolerate bullying. In this school culture, students are more likely to stand up for their peers and report incidents of bullying, creating a safer environment for everyone.

4) Encourages academic success

Simply put, happy children become successful learners. Academic performance is directly linked to experiences with teachers and peers. When children are treated with kindness, they are more likely to attend school regularly, participate actively in class, and strive to do their best. Research has shown that positive emotions enhance cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. All these functions collectively impact a more fruitful learning experience and academic success.

5) Avoids unnecessary pressure

In the high-stakes world of Indian education, the pressure a child goes through in school is insurmountable. Children are expected to perform beyond their capabilities, which leads to immense stress and a sense of inadequacy. Both teachers and parents need to prioritize compassion over comparison and promote a healthier view of success. This not only reduces stress but also helps a child do better academically and socially.

What can you do?

• Encourage your local schools to train teachers and practice kindness and empathy in classrooms.
• Recognize and reward acts of kindness within the school and at home.
• Organize community service projects that allow children to practice kindness beyond school walls.
• Set healthier goals with your child and inspire them to prioritize growth over results.

In conclusion, kindness is more than just a "nice to have" in our schools. It's a necessity. Environments with compassion nurture the hearts and minds of India's future leaders, innovators, and citizens. As we invest in education, let's remember that alongside books and computers, kindness is one of the most powerful tools we can give our children.

Exclusively written for Giving for Good Foundation by Bhairavi Hiremath