Sai-Centric Parenting: Building the Four Pillars of Your Child’s Life through the T.E.A.R. Formula
As both a doctor and a parent, I’m often asked how to aid children in thriving not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually. Inspired by Sai teachings, I’ve designed and implemented a parenting approach that reinforces the Four Pillars of a child’s development: Health, Relationships, Finance Values, and Knowledge. Through the T.E.A.R. Formula—Teach, Engage, Appreciate, and Reflect—I have witnessed incredible transformations in children, including my own.
The Four Pillars and the T.E.A.R. Formula
1. Health: Teach & Engage
Encouraging children to maintain their health is pivotal. As a doctor, I see many parents struggle with enticing their children to adopt healthy habits. The key is to TEACH children by being a role model yourself. Encourage activities like yoga and nature walks, activities that our family participates in regularly.
For example, every Sunday morning, I engage my children with ‘Family Yoga Time’ in our backyard. Teaching children through engagement means involving them in the process. This hands-on approach builds their physical capability and establishes a positive attitude towards maintaining good health.
2. Relationships: Appreciate
Cultivating relationships requires a foundation of love and understanding. As a parent, it’s crucial to show APPRECIATION for your child and use moments of discipline as opportunities to teach love. One time, my daughter Riya was upset with her friend, unable to move past a small misunderstanding. Instead of reprimanding her for being so obstinate, I practiced patience and empathy, explaining the importance of understanding different perspectives. Together, we discussed how essential it was to say, “I understand your point of view, and I appreciate the time you took to listen to mine.”
By embracing appreciation, we teach children that relationships are built on mutual respect and empathy, aligning with Sai’s teachings on love and forgiveness.
3. Finance Values: Teach & Reflect
The ability to manage finances is a critical life skill. TEACHING children about money isn’t only about the arithmetic of saving and spending but involves instilling the values of contentment and simplicity. My wife and I started a small exercise with our children called “The Gratitude Jar”. A jar where they drop notes about things they’re thankful for, focusing on non-materialistic aspects of life. It’s a concept focusing on REFLECTION and understanding the difference between ‘wants’ and ‘needs’.
I remember the joy on my son Varun’s face when he realized that the most cherished notes were about family game nights and beach outings, rather than toys or gadgets. These reflections taught him contentment with what he has— a Sai-centric lesson on financial contentment.
4. Knowledge: Engage & Reflect
To foster creativity and understanding, ENGAGE children’s intellect with curiosity-driven learning. As a doctor, staying updated with medical advancements has shown me the importance of lifelong learning. At home, I create space for open dialogues, where my children ask questions, no matter how offbeat they may seem. We dedicate a “Curiosity Hour” every week where everyone, including me, shares something new they’ve learned.
REFLECTION is key to broader knowledge assimilation. Encourage children to pen down what they’ve learned in a journal. Reflecting on new information transforms knowledge into wisdom, bringing to life Sai’s belief that “Education is not for mere living, but for making a worthy life.”
Gratitude Journaling and Service Activities
Integrating gratitude journaling has been a transformative tool for my children. Every night, before bed, Riya and Varun write down three things they are thankful for. This reinforces a positive outlook and encourages mindful living. It also aligns with Sai’s teaching that gratitude is the single most important virtue.
Service activities are another essential element of Sai-centric parenting. Engaging kids in simple acts of kindness – visiting a local shelter, baking cookies for neighbors, or participating in community clean-ups – fosters empathy and a sense of responsibility towards society. I recall an experience where my children distributed blankets to the homeless during the winter months. It instilled in them a profound understanding of selflessness and compassion.
End with a Sai Quote
It’s through teaching, engagement, appreciation, and reflection that we can holistically develop our children, nurturing their body, mind, and spirit. As we embark on this parenting journey, let’s always remember this quote from Sai Baba: “The end of education is character.” In emphasizing character and value education, we ensure that our children are not just prepared to succeed in society, but also to contribute positively to it.
For more resources on Sai-centric parenting and value-based education, visit Saiparenting.org.
In the enlightening journey of parenting, guided by Sai principles, remember that fostering the Four Pillars enriches our children’s lives, making them not only successful in worldly measures but also profound souls resonating with love, empathy, and wisdom.