Tiny Hands, Big Hearts

In today's fast-paced and ever-dynamic world, it is easy for family values to become lost in the shuffle. With advancements in technology and an emphasis on individual success, the importance of family and its values have often taken a backseat. However, it is never too early to instill these fundamental principles in our children, and primary students are the perfect age to begin teaching them.

Gone are the days where children would automatically respect their parents and cherish family relationships. It is essential to teach them the significance of family values and the impact it can have on their lives. By engaging young hearts and minds in practical experiences, we can help them understand the value of family and the importance of nurturing those relationships.

One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating suitable activities in the classroom. Instead of merely imparting theoretical knowledge, students must be given hands-on experiences that allow them to connect with the material in a personal and meaningful way. For instance, a project on family trees can be undertaken, where students map out their family lineage and learn about the diverse backgrounds that make up their collective identity. By doing so, they gain a deeper appreciation for their familial roots and the role family plays in shaping their lives.

Yaqeen Education Systems has a unique program for all its students known as "Kith and Kin Week". In the school calendar a particular week is declared as the Kith and Kin Week. During this period, many activities on developing relationships with parents as well as family members organised by the school. The close involvement of the parents and family are also obtained.

Ask yourself a question now. What is the name of your great grandfather? How many of us can answer this question? Of course, many of us do not know.

The school makes the children to prepare a family tree with the guidance and close involvement of the parents. Then this chart is brought the school and displayed. Once the Kith and Kin Week is over the chart can be taken home and displayed there.

Another interactive session could involve inviting parents to come into the classroom and share their family traditions, recipes, or stories. By involving both the students and their parents, a collaborative approach is established, reinforcing the idea that family values are the cornerstone of a strong society. This tangible connection with family members helps foster a sense of belonging, and children begin to understand the importance of preserving their family heritage.

These practical experiences not only provide students with a deeper understanding of family values but also teach them valuable life skills. Through engaging in group activities, they learn the significance of cooperation and teamwork. By interacting with their peers and parents, they develop better communication and interpersonal skills, which are vital in building strong familial relationship foundations.

By teaching family values at a young age, we are setting the stage for a more compassionate and considerate society. When children understand the importance of respecting their parents, they grow up to become individuals who value and appreciate their elders. Additionally, by emphasizing the significance of visiting relatives and organizing get-together programmes, we reinforce the idea of family as a support system and source of love and care.

Finally, it is crucial to teach primary students about family values through practical experiences. By engaging them in interactive sessions with the cooperation of their parents, we can instill in them a deep understanding of the importance of family. Through suitable activities, they will gain a sense of belonging and develop valuable life skills. These tiny hands have the potential to shape big hearts, and by teaching family values, we can build a brighter and more compassionate future.

The writer is the founder of Yaqeen Education Systems, Srilanka and can be reached at [email protected]