Mother’s Day takes on a new significance once you become a mother yourself. Reflecting on your own journey of motherhood, you are amazed by how much you have grown and learned, while also being filled with deep admiration for your own mother – your first and most enduring teacher!
Bond before birth
The role of a mother in our life begins much before a child arrives in this world encompassing a vast spectrum of care and guidance. The tale of Abhimanyu, the valiant warrior from the Mahabharata, highlights the profound impact of a mother’s emotions, thoughts, and experiences on the development of a child – even within the womb!
A mother’s love is unconditional. Through her words and gestures a mother provides the child a sense of security and helps in developing a positive self image. Across various life experiences, mothers subtly impart invaluable lessons in kindness, compassion, and empathy. Like adept teachers, mothers who employ techniques like “time out”, empower children to understand and manage their own emotions, cultivating emotional security that translates into adaptability in new environments and among new acquaintances. These socio-emotional skills are complex to impart but once a child practices them as part of his growing up years, the mother knows she is excelling in her maternal role.
The finest educators understand that teaching a child extends far beyond linguistic and cognitive skills. This is where the role of another comes into play. From her tender sing-song cooings to the art of cooking, a mother imparts wisdom through action. Mothers inherently grasp that learning through natural experiences is the most effective method for their child’s holistic development.
Along with all the responsibilities of mother in the family, she also plays the role of a for the child. A mother provides support and encouragement to the child for the development of independence and confidence. She knows the importance of giving the child the freedom to explore, make choices and take risks to help build self confidence. But being a mother is not easy! Yet, motherhood is no easy feat. Mothers also imbibe resilience in their children, providing reassurance during moments of failure or disappointment. Guiding them through conflicts is yet another vital aspect of the maternal role.
Mothers don’t just find all misplaced things, they also know and choose for the child – the best of clothes, foods, shoes, doctors, books, best preschool, best vacations and experiences! Like Siri, they have a story for everything and therefore mothers also are a source of moral & ethical guidance. As role models themselves, mothers also teach the child character building traits of honesty, integrity & respect. From home remedies to rituals and traditions they tell you all.
Mothers, the gentlest figures in a child’s life, also prove to be the most sincere and inspiring educators. It is no coincidence that the word “MOM” reflects as “WOW” – a testament to the awe-inspiring impact they have on their children’s lives.
Here’s to wishing everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day! And let’s not forget to extend our wishes and appreciation to our mothers once again on Teachers’ day!