Sudha Murthy Parenting Tips: ‘Teach your kids about money…’: 7 parenting tips from Sudha Murthy that seem more relevant than ever
Some voices explain parenting so simply that the advice becomes timeless. One such voice is author and philanthropist Sudha Murthy. Known for her down-to-earth wisdom, Murthy, a mother of two, has been sharing parenting advice and tips that are relevant even today. This 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 stressed the importance of raising children with empathy, humility, simplicity and emotional strength. Here are 7 parenting tips from Sudha Murthy that seem more relevant today:
let children fulfill their dreams
Sudha Murthy once said, “Don’t put your dreams in your child’s mind, because every child is born with his own aspirations.” This powerful sentence teaches parents not to push their dreams onto their child’s shoulders. He emphasized that every child has unique qualities and hence has his own aspirations. This means that parents should allow their children to follow the interests they want or the career they want to pursue.
Spend time talking to your children
This advice comes from another quote of his. “Spend time in constructive conversation with the child. Check in and talk to them about everything,” says Sudha Murthy. According to him, meaningful interactions between parents and children form the foundation. Despite busy schedules, when parents make time for contact, children find it much more meaningful than any other expensive gift.
Encourage reading on excessive use of gadgets
Sudha Murthy advises parents to encourage the habit of reading in children. In a world full of modern technology and digital devices, the art of reading is being left behind in some homes. However, the author says, “Teach them the benefits of reading instead of wasting time on gadgets.”So, instead of handing over a smart phone or tablet to your child, make books available in the premises of your home.
Never compare children with others
Comparison is the thief of joy. Sudha Murthy has advice for parents; “Don’t compare your children to others.” She strongly discourages this habit and encourages parents to let their children learn differently and grow at a different pace. While comparison creates insecurities in the mind of the child, encouragement and understanding helps in building confidence and healthy self-esteem.
Teach children that money is not everything
Sudha Murthy has repeatedly talked about the importance of humility over financial status. “Teach kids that money doesn’t make a person extraordinary,” she says.In today’s world where luxury is glorified, teaching children kindness, honesty and respect can help children stay grounded.
Do not fulfill every demand immediately
Another piece of advice from Murthy to parents is that children should learn to be patient and understand the difference between needing something and wanting something. She has previously said, “When a child asks for something, don’t give it to him right away. Find out if he really needs it.”When kids learn to wait and save, they not only appreciate things more, but it also teaches them responsibility.
teach children to respect everyone
“Teach them to respect everyone, irrespective of their position or profession,” says Sudha Murthy. She highlights how every person should be respected regardless of their profession or social status. These habits are the real measure of education. It is important that parents also follow the same values because children learn from what they see.
