It is important to foster individuality, for only the individual can produce the new ideas.
― Albert Einstein
Ideas propel individuals to innovate, use creativity and problem solving skills. Ideas enable individuals to approach complex problems with various perspectives and possibilities. In a world that is uncertain and rapidly changing, embracing individuality drives innovation, fosters ingenuity, and encourages diverse approaches. Thereby, allowing a child to discover their true potential and pursue passions.
As we nurture their unique abilities and ideas, it positively influences their personal development and overall well being, and adds to their:
● Self-awareness and self-acceptance
● Sense of empowerment and self-confidence
● Critical thinking and problem-solving
● Ownership and independence
● Creativity and social skills
● Leadership skills
In this blog, we highlight how this approach enhances 21st-century competencies, such as critical thinking, creativity and problem solving skills, and plays a crucial role in their overall success.
Fosters self-awareness
In today’s world, being unique is an advantage as it can help you stand out if you use your innate talents and abilities the right way. Supporting a child’s uniqueness makes them feel special and encourages them to be comfortable about their distinctiveness.
By doing so, we are enabling them to become self-aware, and encouraging them to develop a strong sense of self-esteem as they learn to accept who they are.
Also read: Leadership opportunities to learn and grow for GIIS secondary students
Builds self-confidence
When children are allowed to express their individuality, they become more confident and better equipped to navigate through challenges. They learn to value their own ideas, thereby fostering skills like critical thinking and creativity. As they use their independent thinking to navigate through challenging situations, they gather helpful life experiences that prepare them for the future.
Consequently, bolstering their confidence to tackle challenges they encounter, within the school environment, like the transition from primary to secondary years or beyond, forging new friendships.
Nurtures self-expression
Encouraging individuality in children also involves providing them with ample opportunities for self-expression. This can be achieved through creative means, such as art, music, dancing, drama, writing, along with sporting activities.
By engaging in activities that resonate with their interests and passions, children can explore and develop their unique talents, allowing their true selves to shine. Moreover, supporting children’s self-expression helps them develop effective communication skills. By expressing their thoughts and ideas, they learn to form meaningful connections with peers and non-peers.
Builds resilience
As we encourage children to take ownership of their actions, it leads to developing a sense of responsibility. Together, it empowers them to develop problem solving and adaptability skills. They learn to navigate through the obstacles and find coping mechanisms to bounce back from the setbacks.
Furthermore, embracing individuality teaches children the importance of accepting and respecting diversity in others. They learn to appreciate different cultures, accept that others may have opinions different from others, fostering empathy and compassion.
Prepares for the future
In a rapidly evolving world, where innovation and creativity are highly valued, encouraging individuality in children is more important than ever. The jobs of the future require individuals who can ace 21st century competencies and are prompt in bringing fresh ideas to the table.
At GIIS, we believe in fostering uniqueness from a young age as we equip children with skills and mindset needed to succeed in this ever-changing world. As an all-through school, our multiple international curricula choices enable students to opt for a curriculum – IB Primary Years Programme&IBDP, Cambridge IGCSE and Indian CBSE – that is suited to their individual learning styles.
Beyond the classroom activities – both extracurricular and co-curricular activities – give our students expansive opportunities to explore and thrive in their individual strengths.
In conclusion, encouraging individuality in children is vital for their holistic development and future success. By embracing their uniqueness, nurturing self-expression, building resilience, and preparing them for the future, we empower children to become confident, compassionate, and innovative individuals.
If you are keen to know more about GIIS, please do not hesitate to contact our admissions counsellors.
Shubhdarshani Mitra
Shubhdarshani has over 10 years of experience in content creation, curation and editing. She has worked for Indian newspapers, school magazines and international news websites where she worked closely with the leadership on the execution and communication of the content strategy. Aside from work, she’s a passionate B&W photographer and storyteller.
