
The Role of Educators and the Burden of Expectations
As teachers in charge of young, impressionable individuals we often find ourselves in a position where we are overtly conscientious about our duties. More often than not, adults in their interactions with learners become overburdened with self-inflicted expectations about their contribution towards a child’s upbringing.We are all ready to do our very best or at least, try to put in more effort than we possibly can. This is extremely gratifying and we experience the psychologically satisfying feeling of doing our job right. It also helps us deal with our own lack of clarity and direction because of the complexity of human growth and development makes our life very difficult and uncertain. No child is exactly the same as another and no recommendation from experts seems to work in exactly the same manner in every situation that crops up.
The Power of Letting Go
After years of grappling with various dilemmas related to the education of children I have understood the value of ‘letting go’. If we are able to allow our children to take risks (emotional, educational and sometimes even physical) they will be better equipped to navigate through the complications that life invariably throws up.
Encouraging Risk-Taking in Education
The purpose of all natural selection is that we become more adaptive to our environment in order to survive and thrive. In modern times, this requires opportunities for risk taking at home and in school. We have to understand this need and create an environment that will satisfy the natural instinct of curiosity that we are all born with. It will be detrimental to all future generations if we try to curb or sacrifice it at the altar of safety and security. In our classrooms, we have to encourage all thought processes and mind sets so that the spark of risk taking burns bright. The understanding of complex concepts and mastering of difficult skills needs this attitude.
Ms. Debika Chatterji - Principal
JBCN International School, Borivali
FAQs
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Why is it important to teach children to take risks?
Teaching children to take risks helps them develop confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. It prepares them for real-life challenges by fostering adaptability and independence.
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How can parents encourage safe risk-taking in children?
Parents can support safe risk-taking by allowing children to explore new activities, make decisions, and learn from mistakes. Setting clear boundaries while giving them freedom helps build responsibility and confidence.
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What are the benefits of teaching children to take risks?
Taking risks enables children to develop self-reliance, creativity, and perseverance. It also teaches them to embrace challenges, think critically, and overcome obstacles.
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What are examples of positive risks for children?
Positive risks include trying a new sport, performing in front of an audience, making new friends, and taking on leadership roles. These experiences help children step out of their comfort zone and develop essential life skills.