World Children’s Day is a reminder to prioritize the well-being and future of our children. Science has revolutionized human life, bringing instant comforts and unprecedented developments. Yet, despite this progress, we see an increasing number of children struggling with depression and anxiety. In Sri Lanka, many children are affected by the pressures of modern life, and studies suggest that depression could become one of the leading causes of death in this decade. This raises the question: What can we do to reverse this trend and ensure a brighter future for our children?
The Impact of Globalization and Modernization
While globalization and modernization have brought about many advancements, they have also contributed to the growing mental health crisis among children. However, these are not the sole causes. The way children are being raised plays a significant role in their emotional and psychological development. Excessive pampering and lack of discipline from an early age can lead to problems later in life, as children grow up unprepared to face challenges and disappointments.
Another concerning issue is the lack of respect that children show toward elders, a cultural value that seems to be diminishing. Parents, as the first role models in a child’s life, must step up and instill respect, ethics, and values from a young age. This requires active engagement in their children’s lives rather than leaving them to grow up in daycare centers or allowing technology to take over their formative years.
The Role of Parents and Technology’s Influence
Today’s parents are often preoccupied with work or business, leaving their children to spend their time glued to mobile devices, playing video games, or watching movies. This addiction to screens stifles creativity and critical thinking, leading to poor academic performance and a higher likelihood of becoming disengaged from school. As these children grow into adulthood, many fall into harmful habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.
It’s never too late for parents to take corrective action. Parents should prioritize their children’s education, encourage creativity, and foster a sense of responsibility. Family values must be reinforced at home to shape children into productive, well-rounded citizens.
Time Management and Setting Goals
One of the key life skills that children must learn is time management. Time should be categorized into “Time Investment” (studying, working), “Time Spent” (traveling, communicating), and “Time Wastage” (idling, gossiping). Children should be taught how to invest their time wisely, using it for productive work that will benefit them in the long run. Clear objectives and realistic goals can keep children focused and give them a sense of purpose, leaving less room for worry or depression.
A balanced life that includes personal, family, work, social, and spiritual well-being can also contribute to a happier and healthier mindset. Patience is essential—just as planting a seed requires time before it bears fruit, success in life often takes time to materialize.
Mental Health Support and the Role of the State
With the increasing prevalence of depression and anxiety among young people, it is crucial that the government takes an active role in addressing these issues. More psychiatric wards and counseling centers should be established to provide support to those in need. Mental health education should be introduced into the school curriculum, helping children to understand and manage their emotions.
The Ministry of Education should also focus on teaching ethics and values in schools, making subjects like literature compulsory to nurture emotional intelligence. It’s vital that students learn to respect their mentors—whether parents or teachers—as this respect fosters a foundation for a fulfilling and balanced life.
Embracing Change for Growth
It’s important to teach children to embrace change rather than resist it. Resisting change only leads to stress and anxiety, while being open to new ideas promotes growth and adaptability in life. Whether in schools, workplaces, or society as a whole, change is inevitable, and learning to navigate it is key to a successful future.
A Collective Effort for a Better Tomorrow
As we celebrate World Children’s Day, let us commit to creating a brighter future for our children. This requires collective action—from parents, teachers, the government, and society at large. Together, we can nurture a generation of resilient, responsible, and happy children who will one day shape a better world.
Let us build a future where children are free to thrive, unburdened by the weight of modern pressures, and equipped with the skills and values they need to lead fulfilling lives.
English (United States)