OPINION: Role of Parents, Guardians, and Teachers in Shaping Children's Aims and Dreams

“Children aim with hearts so wide, Eyes aglow with stars inside.

They dream of castles in the sky, Of soaring wings and learning to fly.

They aim to touch the moon and sun, To heal the world, to laugh and run.

Their dreams are seeds of future days, Planted deep in hopeful ways.

Let them aim, let them believe, In every dream they dare conceive.

For in their dreams, the world is new - Bright with promise, pure and true.”

The poem  "Children Aim and Dream" is a celebration of the boundless imagination, hope, and ambition that children naturally possess. 

Parents, guardians, and teachers play a pivotal role in shaping children's aims and dreams by offering emotional support, guidance, and opportunities for growth. Their combined influence helps children build confidence, values, and a clear sense of purpose.

Every Child, Every Dream: Shaping the Future

Every child carries within them a spark of potential — dreams that can one day shape the world. When we nurture their aims and aspirations, we are not merely guiding individual lives; we are transforming society itself. A child who dreams of becoming a doctor, a teacher, an engineer, or an artist may one day contribute to the health, knowledge, innovation, and culture of the nation.

When children are encouraged to pursue their goals with education, love, and support, their dreams take root and blossom. Each fulfilled dream becomes a step toward a brighter, more compassionate, and progressive world. By valuing and empowering a child’s ambitions, we honor not only their individual potential but also the future of humanity. Indeed, when every child’s ambition is supported and every dream is respected, the world itself is transformed.

Role of Parents in Shaping Aim s and Dreams

The support of parents is essential for achieving life’s aims and dreams — especially in today’s age of information and technology, where guidance and encouragement are more important than ever. My father, a simple policeman, demonstrated profound dedication to our education. He supported both me and my sister, ensuring we had access to opportunities that would help us pursue our dreams. His unwavering belief in the power of education laid the foundation for our success.

Equally important was my mother, a housewife with no formal education. Her care, emotional support, and constant presence gave us the strength to stay focused and grounded. Though she did not hold formal degrees, her wisdom, love, and guidance were invaluable in shaping our character and aspirations.

Supporting our parents has been instrumental in my journey to a higher position in the civil services. This experience reaffirmed a timeless truth: just as children owe gratitude and care to their parents, it is equally the duty of every parent to nurture their children wholeheartedly. Providing unwavering support—especially in their education—empowers children to pursue their goals, fulfil their dreams, and unlock their true potential. 

Role of Guardians and Teachers in Shaping Student Aim and Dreams 

Guidance and mentorship are the backbone of a student’s journey toward achieving their aims and dreams. The guardians and teachers are not just an instructor of subjects — they are a guide, a motivator, and often the first person to recognize a student’s potential. When students are supported with the right direction, encouragement, and resources, they can rise to great heights — even on national and international platforms.

However, in the context of state of Chhattisgarh , many students with strong aims and bright dreams have faced a different reality. Despite their talent and determination, they often lack the institutional support, mentorship, and exposure needed to compete at the national level. Unfortunately, in many cases, teachers and academic guides have not played a proactive or positive role in nurturing these aspirations.

This lack of support has led to a gap between potential and performance. Students with the ability to excel in UPSC, NEET, IIT-JEE, and other national-level exams often fall behind — not because they lack intelligence or ambition, but because they lack direction, encouragement, and access to quality guidance.

 What Needs to Change for students with their Aim and Dream

1. Guardians and Teachers must evolve into mentors who inspire students to dream big and guide them step-by-step.

2. Career counselling and competitive exam awareness should be integrated into school systems.

3. Workshops, mock tests, and exposure visits can help students understand national-level expectations.

4. Parents and communities must also be involved in encouraging education beyond local boundaries.

 It is time for the education system in state Chhattisgarh to reimagine the role of parents, teachers, and guardians. With the right support, students can not only appear for national-level exams — they can excel. The dreams of youth are not limited by geography, only by the support they receive.  No dream should be lost due to lack of guidance.

Aim, Dream, and Purpose Children’s Day: A Celebration of Potential

A person’s dream inspires the heart, while their aim strengthens the will to turn that dream into reality. Together, they shape one’s journey toward success, fulfilment and service to humanity. When guided by intention, hard work, and faith, a child’s aims and dreams can lead not only to personal growth but also to the betterment of society.

Both aim and dream can be understood through the lens of intention (niyyah), purpose, and divine guidance. In Islam, niyyah holds great importance - it is the foundation of every action. The Prophet Muhammad said:

“Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will be rewarded according to what he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim).

Children’s Day: A Celebration of Potential

In India, Children’s Day is celebrated on November 14 to mark the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, lovingly called “Chacha Nehru” for his affection toward children. The day highlights the importance of recognizing children’s rights, education, and welfare. Schools and communities organize programs, cultural events, and discussions to emphasize the significance of nurturing young minds.

The theme for Children’s Day India 2025 is “For Every Child, Every Right”, stressing access to education, health, and protection in a safe, nurturing environment. Meanwhile, World Children’s Day 2025 is observed on November 20 with the theme “Investing in our children is investing in our future”, emphasizing that children’s inclusion and well-being are the foundation for a transformed world.

The journey of a child toward their dreams is shaped by the hands that guide them. Parents, guardians, and teachers must work in harmony to create an environment where dreams are not just imagined but pursued with courage and clarity. Their collective influence can turn a child’s potential into purpose.