Summary: This ChildrenPlus Connects episode features educator Ashok Pandey discussing how to build resilience in students. He defines resilience as the ability to adapt and thrive despite challenges.
Mr. Pandey highlights the pressures students face, including academic, societal, and social media influences. He stresses the importance of strong relationships with parents and teachers, and open communication in fostering resilience.
He encourages schools to prioritize mental health education and empower teachers to act as counselors. Parents are urged to actively engage with their children and create a supportive home environment.
By working together, schools and parents can equip students with the skills and support they need to navigate challenges and flourish.
How can schools in India foster resilience and support the mental wellbeing of their students? In this episode of ChildrenPlus Connects, we welcome Mr. Ashok Pandey, a renowned educator and thought leader, to explore this crucial topic. Mr. Pandey brings a wealth of experience and insights to this important conversation.
Understanding Resilience in Schools
Mr. Pandey begins by defining resilience in the context of schools. He emphasizes that resilience is more than just facing adversity; it’s about adapting and thriving despite challenges. He highlights the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem within a school, involving teachers, parents, management, students, and the community, to foster resilience in everyone.
Challenges to Student Mental Health in India
The conversation then shifts to the challenges students in India face in terms of mental health and wellbeing. Mr. Pandey points out that these challenges often stem from various pressures and expectations, including academic pressure, societal expectations, and the influence of social media. He stresses the importance of addressing these underlying issues to promote mental wellbeing.
The Impact of Social Media on Children
Mr. Pandey discusses the pervasive influence of social media on children’s mental health. He highlights the risks of excessive social media consumption, such as social isolation, unrealistic expectations, and self-centeredness. He suggests that parents and schools in India need to intervene and guide children on healthy social media usage.
Nurturing Relationships for Resilience
Mr. Pandey emphasizes the crucial role of strong relationships in building resilience. He highlights the importance of nurturing positive parent-child and student-teacher relationships. He encourages open communication, active listening, and providing emotional support to children.
The Role of School Counselors and Teachers in India
The discussion then focuses on the role of school counselors in supporting students’ mental health in India. Mr. Pandey acknowledges the limitations of relying solely on counselors, especially in larger schools. He advocates for empowering all teachers to act as counselors, providing guidance and support to students in their daily interactions.
Advice for School Management and Parents in India
Mr. Pandey concludes by offering advice to school management and parents in India:
- Schools: He urges schools to prioritize mental health education and create a supportive environment where students feel safe and valued.
- Parents: He encourages parents to actively engage with their children, spend quality time together, and share their own life experiences to foster strong bonds and build resilience.
ChildrenPlus: Supporting Mental Wellbeing in Noida
ChildrenPlus is dedicated to supporting the mental wellbeing of children and adolescents in Noida, India. We offer a range of services, including counseling, assessments, and workshops, to help children navigate challenges and thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s mental health journey.