In the current evolving and ever-changing world, the role of education and the techniques attached to it are also changing. Earlier, the major focus was on the child's learning, understanding, and scoring good marks in the examination to go to the next level. But now, the focus has shifted more towards the socio-emotional learning of the child, which puts more emphasis on the physical, mental, emotional, and psychological well-being of the child. This aspect, where the overall well-being of the child is kept in focus is called holistic development of the child. It not only assists children in developing their gross and fine motor skills but also builds their mental strength. 

Holistic development of the child helps the child develop not only proper communication skills but also enhances their social skills. It helps the child develop overall emotional understanding and brings out a balance between the child’s practical and emotional sides. This requires the children and the teachers to work on their physical health, emotional health, social and mental health too. It is important to work on them individually because they are connected to each other and an imbalance in one affects the other. 

Why is this holistic development of children required? Firstly, it helps in creating a sense of self-awareness among the child where he/she realizes their self-importance and is able to identify him/herself as unique. Secondly, it helps in the child’s spatial awareness where he/she becomes aware of not only his/her location but also their own personal space. Thirdly, it enhances a child’s creative and imaginative power, where he/she is better able to connect their body and brain and is better able to express him/herself, which leads to his/her progress. Fourthly, it enhances a child’s logical understanding skills as it helps him/her analyze the information given and think logically. 

The major aim of holistic development is to create and enhance different aspects and abilities of the human mind. The initial place of holistic development starts at home, the place where socialization begins. Parents help children build their focus and take care of emotional needs as their holistic development is of most importance to the parents so that their children are saved from an emotional imbalance. The second institution is the school where the overall development of the child takes place. It should not be just related to the academic lessons and marks. A schooling system that helps a child understand his/her self, emotions, and mental duress in a better way while teaching him/her how to build up healthy and functional relationships as well as develop resilience and team spirit is the true form of education.   

School leaders and teachers must ensure that the school curriculum is integrated with various co-curricular activities to ensure the holistic development of students. School leaders and teachers may take expert advice from career counselors as they understand that these skills are required for future success in work life.

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