Kids who thrive are grounded in values

As parents, we all want our children to succeed—but it’s no longer just about grades, certificates or achievements. True success is about raising children, who are confident, kind, resilient and equipped with the skills to face life’s challenges with courage and empathy.

Children who thrive are not only academically prepared — they are also grounded in values, emotional strength and practical life skills. Schools have now accepted this challenge and made a shift towards inculcating soft skills and mapping emotional aptitude of the students. Manners are the first step. Children absorb them naturally by observing the adults around them. When they see politeness, gratitude, patience and respect in action, they begin to mirror these behaviours. Saying “Please”, “Thank you”, and “Sorry” may seem simple, but these small habits shape social confidence and create an atmosphere of respect. As Maya Angelou said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

A positive mindset and resilience are equally important. Today’s children face pressures—academic expectations, social media, peer comparisons and constant performance demands. Teaching them that setbacks are opportunities to learn, rather than signs of failure, is crucial. Celebrate their efforts, not just their successes, and you teach perseverance.

Competence is the third pillar. Life skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, time management and digital literacy prepare children to navigate the world beyond academics. Even small responsibilities — organising their school bag, helping set the table or taking care of their belongings — teach independence, discipline and a sense of ownership.

Here are a few parenting tips that truly make a difference. Give children age-appropriate responsibilities — they learn self-reliance and accountability. Praise effort, not just results — it builds resilience and confidence. Model emotional control — children learn to handle stress by observing you. Encourage open communication—ask questions, listen carefully and allow children to express feelings. Limit screen time thoughtfully—replace it with reading, outdoor play or creative activities. Create a routine — predictability provides emotional security.

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