The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : On childhood

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Tuesday, Nov 10, 2009
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On childhood

The article “I only want to enjoy my childhood, ma” (Open Page, Nov. 8) reflects the inner voices of many children though they may not be able to express themselves. The present system of education is bookish — monotonous teaching that lends no opportunity for original and creative thinking. When a student was asked what was taught in the class, he replied: “Chapter 4.” The desire or craving to see, hear, touch, smell and taste is not at all satisfied. In science classes, there is no demonstration or experiment. R.K. Narayan said in Parliament that his heart bled when he saw the load carried by schoolchildren. Everybody talks about reforms in education but who will do anything tangible?

R. Rajagopalan,

Chennai

The article touched my heart. We continuously advocate child rights and talk of child abuse but little do we realise that in the name of education we are denying our children an enjoyable childhood. ‘Play’ has been forgotten. School, tuitions, dance class, music class, painting class; lessons, homework, holidays loaded with “holiday homework,” record work, assignments, project work ... the list of activities goes on. Let us not deny our children the basic right of a happy childhood. Let not those buds wither before they bloom.

R. Karpagam,

Coimbatore

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On childhood