Kamal Ghorui
Some voices explain parenting with such simplicity that the advice becomes timeless. One such voice is author and philanthropist Sudha Murty. Well known for her grounded wisdom, Murty, a mother of two, has been sharing parenting advice and tips that stand out even today. It is because the values she holds come from a lifetime of experience.Over the years, through speeches and interviews, the 75-year-old has repeatedly emphasised the importance of raising children with empathy, humility, simplicity and emotional strength.Here are 7 parenting tips from Sudha Murty that feel more relevant today:
Let children follow their dreams
Sudha Murty once said, “Don’t put your dreams in your child’s mind, because every child is born with his or her own aspirations.”This powerful sentence teaches parents not to force their own dreams on their child’s shoulders. She emphasised that within each child lies qualities that are unique, and that’s why they have their own aspirations.This means parents should allow their children to follow the interests they desire or the career they want to pursue.
Spend time talking to your children
This advice comes from another one of her quotes. “Spend time with the child in a constructive conversation. Examine and talk to them about everything,” says Sudha Murty. According to her, meaningful conversations between parents and children form the foundation.Even when schedules are busy, when parents take out time for connection, children find it far more meaningful than any other expensive gift.
Encourage reading over excessive gadget use
Sudha Murty advises parents to encourage reading habits in children. In a world full of modern technology and digital devices, the art of reading is getting left behind in some households. However, the author says, “Teach them the advantages of reading instead of spending time on gadgets.”So, instead of handing a smart phone or tablet in your child’s hand, make books available in your home’s premises.
Never compare children with others
Comparison is the thief of joy. Sudha Murty’s advice to parents is; “Don’t compare your children with others.” She strongly discourages this habit and encourages parents to allow their children to learn differently and grow at a different pace.While comparison creates insecurity in a child’s mind, encouragement and understanding helps build confidence and healthier self-esteem.
Teach children that money is not everything
Sudha Murty has repeatedly spoken about the importance of humility over financial status. She says, “Teach children that money doesn’t make a person extraordinary.”In today’s world where luxury is glorified, teaching children that kindness, honesty and respect can help children stay grounded.
Don’t fulfil every demand instantly
Another one of Murty’s advice to parents is that children should learn patience and understand the difference between needing something and wanting something. She has previously said, “When a child asks for something, don’t give it immediately. Find out if it’s really needed or not.”When children learn to wait and save, they not only appreciate things, but it also teaches them responsibility.
Teach children to respect everyone
“Teach them to respect everyone, no matter their position or profession,” says Sudha Murty. She highlights how every individual should be respected regardless of their profession or social status. These habits are the true measure of education.It is important that parents too follow the same values because children learn from what they observe.
