‘What I teach my child? Strive to achieve; form meaningful bonds’

A dynamic professional, Ms. Charu Singh heads Career Craft, a talent search and selection firm which provides professional services in recruitment. She resides in South Delhi along with her husband, Mr. Ashish Anand, an Investor and Board Advisor. The couple enrolled their younger son Ruwaan at Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld- Greater Kailash – II last year.

Interestingly, Ms. Singh is a self-admittedly ‘strict’ parent. In the following interview, she reveals why that is the case and how she has made sure that her sons learn effectively. Read on edited excerpts.

What is the home environment like? Is there a lot of focus on academics?

No. I want my children to have fun rather than becoming a ‘kitabi-keedha’. My definition for them to ‘have fun’ is not about having pizzas and watching television the whole day. Rather, I want them to build meaningful bonds, nurture friendships, play with their classmates and learn life simply by experiencing it. Whether or not they are academically-driven is a concern for the future. Right now, they should just enjoy it.

Do you think having life-skills is crucial? How are you preparing the children?  

Yes, life-skills are most important to progress in any field of life. At home, we believe that the children should earn what they enjoy. Even at this age, they must know the value of money and not take things for granted. To further the same, we do not encourage them to indulge in excesses. They should have a balanced approach towards life.

Please tell us more about Ruwaan. Is he doing well at school?

Unfortunately, my son hasn’t been keeping too well for the past few months. He often misses out on school days. But whenever he comes home from his classes, he is quite cheerful. He enjoys singing his rhymes and likes to interact. I am pleasantly surprised with his progress.

Your expectation from him?

It is necessary to make him learn discipline. He must eat and sleep at the right time of the day. I try to limit his screen-time to an hour daily. And, I want him to have about 10 hours of sleep. Any kind of excess in terms of food is not welcome. He should eat the regular Indian food that is home-cooked. Of course, he can enjoy a meal at his favourite restaurant but only once a week.

Why did you shortlist Apeejay, Rhythms for Ruwaan?

The school was conveniently located near to our residence. Of course, the school is impressive and its teachers do their best to make children learn.

Would you recommend the school to fellow parents?

Yes, definitely. My child comes home with a smile after attending the school.