Is there a quick fix for addressing bad behavior among children? Can I have the power to punish them? Why can't I? Why can't I put them to shame? Read the article below and share your thoughts.

I am happy to introduce you to Ashwin (the disguised name of the child), who never showed interest in learning but always stayed obedient to the class. What does this mean? He follows the class rules well regarding taking turns, listening to other kids' views, respecting peers, logging in on time, greeting each other, and so on. The concern is completing the takeaways and following the rules for completing the task. Let me explain: He is too bright to use calculators to complete the assigned tasks with visualization.

One fine day, his dad took some time to monitor his approach to finishing the class task. He did it with visualization and completed it so well without any hassles. This incident provoked the question of why he got comfortable using a calculator. When his parents did not physically monitor him, he used a calculator, a fact known to both ends. Though the parents knew this, they weren't harsh on the child. Instead, they adopted a supportive approach, understanding that learning is a process and it's okay for a child to face challenges. I liked his dad's approach. He locked certain apps, but he didn't get access to them. Within a few days, the child grew smarter and unlocked them. Now, the question arises of whether he stole the passcode. Nope, he learned to unlock them. Was this easy for the child? Nope, it wasn't. Was the child not able to stay strong with visualization? Nope, he was. Then what was the reason, and how do the teacher and the parent know he learned the concept yet uses a calculator?

Kids love to be praised and to stand out among their peers, just like you and me

Engaging in class discussions, a key part of the teaching and learning process, made it vivid. These discussions help the teacher gauge the progress of the learning objectives and involve the students in their learning. Ashwin, in particular, is an active participant, often volunteering to answer without hesitation, which shows his eagerness to learn and contribute. A conversation with the parent gave me a clear picture that the child is doing fantastic at school by following up on visualization techniques to be quick and smart in calculations. Why does he use the calculator to help solve problems in class?

When I got to talk to the child after building a good rapport and trusting relationship with him, Ashwin said, " Ma'am, I used the calculator once to solve and noticed that I could be faster than everyone, and I liked it, so I continued it." This self-awareness is a crucial part of his learning journey. I just nodded, saying, " Oh, I see." He continued, " I know other kids were putting in lots of effort in using visualization, and sometimes I felt guilty, too." I gave no expression. A silence prevailed between each of us. After a few seconds, He said, " Sorry, ma'am." I sighed and accepted his apology, then ended the call.

From then on, whenever the class had links to solve, he would complete and mention that he did it with visualization or an abacus as directed. Someday, any other student would question Ashwin about why he said it most of the time. Ashwin said, "Just like that". From the other end, I could relate to the pain of regret, shame, and guilt of him for the earlier days' actions. I never wished the child to have days taunting him for his past mistakes. We talked personally about feeling guilt-free with the parent and the child. The child's words still linger in my head - " Ma'am, thanks for trusting me."

My experience with Ashwin taught me a valuable lesson- there are no quick fixes in a child's life. Building trust and providing support is a lifelong process, not a temporary solution. It's crucial to see the child for who they are, not for the mistakes they make. This enlightening understanding fosters empathy and compassion in our education and child development approach.

Happy child = happy days = happy learning for life!

A quick takeaway -

Have you ever been caught red-handed in your childhood days for the mistake you made? Did people judge you by the mistakes you made? What do you feel when your mistakes do not judge you? Could you write to me in the comments?