Page 12 - LESSION 6.pmd

Growth and Development

Shrinking family size clubbed with the busy schedules of the parents due to their
work commitments often leave the children being socialized by different forms
Notes of media and technology. Children’s engagement with modern day gadgets such
as phones, laptops, tablets and televisions may impact their overall growth and
development.
¾ ¾ ¾ ¾ ¾ Child-rearing practices

Some parents are authoritarian and make strict rules and regulations that the
children must follow. This creates fear and insecurity in the children. On the
other hand, some parents take children’s choices and opinions into consideration
while deciding anything for children. Thus, child rearing practices may have
positive or negative impact on the children’s development. A balanced attitude
of parents towards children creates pleasant experiences and favourable
environment that helps children to become confident, have high self-esteem and
find people around them trustworthy.

¾ Enabling and stimulating environment

An enabling and stimulating environment both at home and at school is essen-
tial for children’s healthy growth and development. The development of chil-
dren will be positive in a home where they are encouraged to play and interact
freely with parents and caregivers. This promotes all the domains of develop-
ment. Similarly, it is also necessary that children are allowed to ask questions
and given an opportunity to explore and experiment at school. If their enthusi-
asm is curbed and they are discouraged for participating, then their cognitive
and socio-emotional development is likely to get affected.
¾ Influence of Siblings

Apart from parents, children are strongly influenced by their siblings. They can
be a source of emotional security and can help each other acquire skills. If the
parents involve an older child in supporting them in looking after the younger
sibling, the child learns responsibility and develops a willingness to share. On
the other hand, siblings may develop jealousy and rivalry with each other. Parents
should avoid comparing the siblings, as this can create resentment and jealousy.
They should also ensure that their behaviour towards them is impartial and fair.

• Peer group
Beyond the confines of home and one’s immediate family, how well children are
accepted within the peer group deeply influences their self-concept. The peer
group helps children to learn and behave in a socially acceptable manner.
Acceptance by one's peer group is a strong source of emotional support. Though
parents teach social behaviour, it is in the company of friends that children learn
sharing, cooperation, autonomy, skills of leadership and a sense of competition.
Hence, the importance of peer group in healthy growth and development cannot
be undermined.

86 EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION