Republic Day special: 11 things Indian parents should do to raise patriotic kids

These little things can help your child be a better person and a patriot in the true sense.

By: Debjani Arora | | Updated: January 26, 2018 10:52 am

We are tired of corruption all around us, increasing crime rates, never-ending debates on tolerant-intolerant India by learned men of the society, anti-social elements, government s half-hearted promises and the list can be never-ending. But our love for the nation stands out despite these shortcomings of our own people. And, as a parent, it is, even more, important that you nurture this love to help your child become patriotic in a true sense. Here are few things you can do to teach your child patriotism. Also Read - Genes linked to common brain disorder, Chiari 1 malformation, identified

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1. Respect the national flag: Patriotism starts with respecting the national flag. It is your responsibility to teach your child that the tricolour flag isn t just a piece of paper or cloth but much more than that. Never tear or throw a flag in the dustbin when it s in a soiled or mutilated condition. The same goes for an emblem or other stuff which has the national flag imprinted in it. You can put the old flags in a plastic bag and send them for recycling. Also, never hesitate to salute the flag when out with your toddler, who would definitely love to do that. Also Read - Kids who take steroids at increased risk for diabetes: Know the other side effects of this medication

2. Respect the national anthem: Whether it s a theatre, a mall or a social gathering when you hear the national anthem pay respect to it. Never mind what other people are doing, they are not setting an example for your child, you are. Here are five things you should never do while raising a girl child.

3. Don t litter in public spaces: Keeping your surroundings clean and litter free is not only a sign of being a good citizen but also shows your love and respect towards your community and country. Teach your child that change begins with you; it is the only way you can make sure she can spread the message, and the future doesn t look as bleak as it seems.

4. Always abide traffic rules: Road safety is a social responsibility, and sadly most adults fail to keep up with it. Patriotism is just an extension of your social responsibility and if we fail here we aren t passing on the right lessons to your little ones.

5. Don t indulge in racism or caste issues: Yes, you can have your own opinion and can be judgemental at times, but constantly make an effort not to pass your judgement about a particular sect, caste or race of people to your child. This makes your child grow up with a clouded thinking about people and cultures around her. A true patriot will never hold these boundaries within and treat people one and the same. Here are nine healthy habits you should pass on to your kids.

6. Have healthy conversations about religion and other sects: To do this, you might have to do a little bit of homework if you have not tried to know about people from other communities. But it is a great start for you to help your child learn cultural diversities and embrace the difference and the oneness of our country.

7. Teach about the constitution: Yes, knowing the constitutional rights, the policies your country follows, the basic laws for the citizens are like knowing your country a little more than what the textbooks depict.

8. Visit historic places: You would be doing your child great deal of good if you can trade one foreign vacation with one historic place in the year. Taking your child to the Red Fort, Andaman Jail or Jallianwala Bagh will help your child feel more connected with the country s ancient history and instil a sense of pride.

9. Take pride in Indian history: There are a lot of things happening in the political strata (like declassification of the Netaji files) that can make you question your country history and the people who made it. But again keep your opinions to yourself. Take pride in your own history to help your child do the same. Read autobiographies of freedom fighters. Read about the underdogs of the freedom movement with your child. The internet will have scores of such stories. Here are seven tips to raise a successful kid.

10. Teach them to accept shortcomings: Don t talk all fluff about your country. There are times when you have to accept the shortcoming as well. When your child questions about the injustice happening around answer them in the correct manner and don t brush it off. Talk more about the positive things your country achieved nuclear power, launch of various satellites, the discovery of zero. But above all let your child know that there are imperfections within the country. We have our own shortcomings, and we are trying our best to deal with the same.

11. Teach them to be good citizens: Your child must be getting a lot of knowledge on this front from her social and moral textbooks. Your job is to help her implement these things in the practical world, so she transforms into one. So next time she asks to share her leftover food with the beggars in the street don’t stop her. Remember true patriotism starts with being a true citizen.

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Published : January 26, 2018 10:05 am | Updated:January 26, 2018 10:52 am

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