Summary: CBSE has released a circular focusing on improving inter-generational bonds, i.e. between students and grandparents or senior citizens. This will help improve emotional learning among students and also teach them patience, resilience and kindness. In turn, it might lessen the feelings of isolation. Schools are asked to organise various events like walkathons, games, etc., under this programme.
Why is the CBSE inter-generational programme important?
Many things have changed over the years, some for the better and some for the worse. Family dynamics have also gone through a major change. For better job opportunities, people moved from their native places to different cities. Where living in joint families was the norm, families now consist of parents and their kids. Children visit their grandparents during vacations or during the time of festivals, and even then, as they grow up, extra classes, exams, or co-curricular activities take priority. Taking note of the growing distance, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recently issued a circular encouraging schools to promote the connection between senior citizens and students. This follows the recommendations given by the National Council of Senior Citizens and has been communicated through the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The message is simple – bring generations closer together and remind children of the value of people, the knowledge and experience that the older generation carries.
The Generation Gap
It is rightly said that time is a thief. In families, grandchildren and grandparents hardly spend time together owing to the distance between cities, busy schedules, and many other reasons. This means that children without listening to the stories, the wisdom and memories of older generations. This brings about a sense of loneliness for many senior citizens. Their experiences and memories often remain unheard. Schools can play a big role in connecting the two generations. They can create spaces where senior citizens and students can talk, share experiences and feel connected.
Why it matters for students?
Parents read stories with moral values and try to instil in them. What they forget is that children learn best through relationships and actions. Spending time with grandparents or other senior citizens teaches them patience, resilience and life experience in a real way. These are things which are otherwise difficult to understand for children. A grandparent sharing stories about their childhood, about a different time in the country, or about challenges they faced can leave a deeper impression than any classroom lecture. These conversations help students understand respect, gratitude, and empathy. They also help children appreciate family bonds and the importance of caring for elders.
CBSE suggested activities for schools
In the circular released by CBSE, the Board has suggested a few activities that schools can organise for intergenerational bonding between the students and senior citizens. The activities are simple and can be easily modified as needed. Schools are also encouraged to find other creative ways to encourage this bond.
- Inviting grandparents to school celebrations
Many events happen during the academic year where parents are invited to attend, like national and commemorative occasions such as Independence Day, Bal Diwas, International Day of Older Persons, etc.
Schools can also organise special events on Grandparents Day. For many children, seeing their grandparents welcomed and respected at school can be a proud and emotional moment. For grandparents, it can be equally special to see the world their grandchildren learn and grow in. These can include:
- Cultural performance by students
- Grandparents sharing stories
- Simple games that can be played in teams or individually
2. Walkathons with Grandparents
Another suggested activity is walkathons. This is a fancy name for ‘A walk with grandparents’. It may seem simple, but it gives the perfect opportunity for the two generations. Walking side by side allows generations to connect without pressure or formality. At the same time, it encourages healthy activity and community participation.
Respect and Dignity
For this initiative to be successful, schools should conduct these activities in a respectful and inclusive manner. CBSE has emphasised this consistently so that senior citizens feel comfortable and valued during these events. Thoughtful planning, proper seating, easy access, and support from staff can make a big difference. Schools should also keep a note of these activities and keep the relevant authorities and keep them updated.
What will CBSE inter-generational bonding activities do?
Parents and schools often consider academic success to be the most important factor in education. Education in the true sense is beyond academics. It is also about learning to treat others with respect and kindness. Through the CBSE initiative for inter-generational bonding, schools will understand the importance of emotional learning. When children listen to their elders, ask questions, and spend time with them, they learn something deeper than facts or formulas. They learn humanity. And sometimes, a simple conversation between a grandparent and a child can become a memory both will carry for years.
Read all CBSE notifications here –> CBSE