The future of resilient children – Teaching the power of grit

In an age where we have access to an endless stream of information, technology and convenience, it can be tempting to want to shield our children from challenges, difficulties and tough situations. As parents, caregivers and educators, it’s natural to want the best for our children, to keep them safe, happy and free from adversity. However, there’s one powerful skill that is not taught through ease, but through overcoming challenges: resilience. The ability to bounce back from adversity, to learn from setbacks and to develop grit is not only a crucial life skill but one that shapes the future of children as they navigate the world beyond childhood.

The perils of shielding children from life’s struggles

In a well-meaning attempt to protect children, many parents and caregivers make the mistake of stepping in every time their child faces difficulty. Whether it’s a challenging school assignment, a difficult social situation, or a sports team selection, parents may be inclined to intervene, solve problems or criticise those involved, such as teachers, coaches or classmates. This might seem like a loving, supportive gesture, but in reality, it undermines the very quality that will help children thrive: resilience.

While it’s essential to be there for children and offer support, shielding them from every setback or inconvenience does not prepare them for the real world. Life is full of challenges, disappointments and difficult people. If children are never allowed to experience these obstacles, they won’t develop the skills they need to overcome them.

“Parents and guardians, please stop trying to make life easy for your children.”

This statement underscores the idea that our role as parents isn’t to eliminate difficulties from their lives but to help them learn how to face and manage these challenges with confidence.

Teaching children grit

The ability to persevere through difficulties, known as “grit,” is something that can be cultivated over time. Research by psychologist Angela Duckworth has demonstrated that grit—defined as a combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals—is a significant predictor of success. It’s not innate talent or intelligence that matters most, but the ability to keep going in the face of obstacles.

Here are a few ways that parents and caregivers can help children develop this critical skill:

  1. Let them fail – and learn from it. It’s tempting to shield children from failure, but it’s often through failure that children learn the most. Instead of rushing in to rescue them, allow children to experience disappointment, frustration and failure. When they fail, they’ll have the opportunity to process their emotions, reflect on what went wrong and figure out how to do better next time. Encouraging them to see failure as a learning opportunity rather than a defeat will help them develop resilience.
  2. Model resilience. Children learn a great deal by observing the behaviour of the adults around them. Show them how you handle difficulties in your own life. Share with them how you face setbacks, how you keep going when things get tough and how you maintain a positive mindset even when things don’t go according to plan. Your example will go a long way in helping them develop their own resilience.
  3. Praise effort over outcome. In a world that often focuses on results, it’s essential to praise effort over outcome. Instead of congratulating children only for winning or succeeding, emphasise the hard work they put into a task, their determination and their perseverance. By valuing the process over the result, you help children develop a growth mindset, where the focus is on continuous improvement rather than perfection.
  4. Encourage problem-solving. When children face challenges, resist the urge to immediately solve the problem for them. Instead, encourage them to think critically and find solutions on their own. Ask guiding questions that help them brainstorm ideas, weigh different options and make decisions. This promotes independence and confidence, two key components of resilience.
  5. Teach emotional regulation. Resilience isn’t just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about how children manage their emotions in the face of adversity. Teaching emotional regulation—helping children understand and control their emotions—plays a crucial role in building resilience. When children can process their feelings of frustration, sadness or anger in healthy ways, they are better able to bounce back from setbacks and continue moving forward.
  6. Give them space to experience difficult situations. Situations such as being selected for a team or dealing with a difficult teacher who is stern, are not personal attacks—they are part of life. Helping children understand that not everyone will like them, not every situation will be fair and not every outcome will be in their favour is vital for building resilience. By giving children the space to face these difficulties and manage their responses, you are fostering their ability to navigate the complexities of life.

The role of parents in building resilience

Perhaps as parents and guardians, we should pause and think about how they need to adapt to all sorts of different and difficult situations in the future. The role of a parent is not to control every aspect of a child’s life or shield them from every challenge, but to be a guiding force as they learn to face adversity with confidence.

It’s important to remember that resilience isn’t built overnight. It’s a lifelong journey and it takes consistent effort and practice. By embracing difficulties as opportunities for growth and by offering children the tools they need to cope with challenges, we can ensure that they grow into resilient, resourceful adults who are well-equipped to handle whatever life throws their way.

In a world where the future seems uncertain and challenges are constant, resilient children will be the ones who thrive. They will know how to face difficulties with courage, adapt to changing circumstances and persevere through adversity. By teaching our children to embrace failure, value effort and manage their emotions, we are not only preparing them for the challenges of today, but also equipping them with the grit they need to succeed in the future.

Remember, resilience is not something children are born with—it’s something they learn through experience, support and guidance. As parents and educators, we have the opportunity to help children develop this vital life skill and set them up for a successful, fulfilling life ahead.

Mind Power courses

At Think Digital we’ve developed two short courses, Mind Power for Kids (ages 6 – 12) and Mind Power for Teens (ages 13 – 18), that is fun to take and teaches them how to navigate through life and remain positive and focused.

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Why not try our online learning environment by enroling for our free 14 day trial.

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A look into the accreditation of online schools in South Africa

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As the world rapidly shifts into the digital era, so too does the educational landscape. South Africa is no exception to this transformation, with increasing numbers of families turning to online schools as an alternative method of educating their children. However, with the growing popularity of online schooling comes an array of questions, particularly around its legal status and the potential changes brought on by the BELA Bill (Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill). This article seeks to provide clarity and reassurance to parents who have embraced online education, specifically regarding the legal standing of online schools in South Africa, the upcoming regulatory changes and how Think Digital Academy aligns with these developments.

The complexities of online schooling in South Africa: Legal ambiguity

One of the biggest concerns for parents considering or already participating in online schooling is the question of legality. In South Africa, the law has historically been clear about two things: education is compulsory and it must occur in a formal school setting or at home. South African law makes provision for three kinds of education: home education, private schools and state schools. However, the rise of online schools has left a grey area where current laws neither fully recognise nor ban this method of learning. So, where does that leave parents?

The short answer is: online schooling is neither illegal nor fully regulated in South Africa. This creates a unique situation where online schools can operate with flexibility, allowing them to evolve and adapt to the needs of modern learners while the legal framework is still developing. While this ambiguity can cause anxiety, it’s crucial for parents to understand that, at present, choosing online schooling is a legally viable option. The challenge, however, lies in the fact that the legal framework is outdated and doesn’t yet accommodate the growing demand for alternative schooling options.

The BELA Bill: What does it mean for online schools?

Enter the BELA Bill. The Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill or BELA Bill, is to bring important changes to the South African education system. One of the main objectives of the BELA Bill is to improve the regulation of homeschooling and alternative education methods, including online schools. The Bill ensures that all learners in South Africa receive quality education that meets national standards, with a focus on accountability and structure.

The BELA Bill introduces provisions for regulating homeschooling more effectively, ensuring that it aligns with educational standards. While these changes may introduce some new requirements for online schools, they do not mean that online education will be banned. Instead, the Bill ensures that online education is properly structured and meets the quality expectations that all South African learners deserve. This does not mean that online education will be made illegal. It simply means that it will perhaps, be more regulated.

Reassurance for parents: Online schools are not illegal

For parents who have chosen online schooling as an option for their children, it is important to know that, as it stands, online schools are legal. Parents can choose online education with confidence, knowing that there is no law that directly prohibits it. The key is understanding that the current legal status is not entirely settled and this uncertainty is being addressed by the proposed changes in the BELA Bill.

As with any significant regulatory shift, there may be adjustments that will affect the way online schools operate. However, it’s crucial to note that these changes are designed to ensure that online education meets high standards and is integrated into the broader educational ecosystem in South Africa. These adjustments aim to create a safer, more accountable space for learners without taking away the option of online schooling.

Think Digital Academy’s role in South African education

At Think Digital Academy, we are deeply committed to offering high-quality education that equips students for success. We understand the concerns that come with the ongoing changes in the education landscape and are dedicated to ensuring that our online school is well-positioned to meet both current and future regulatory requirements.

While the accreditation process for online schools in South Africa is still evolving, Think Digital Academy strives to maintain the highest standards of education and professionalism. We are continuously working to ensure that our curriculum and teaching practices align with national education standards, so our students receive a comprehensive and recognised education. We are also closely monitoring the progress of the BELA Bill to ensure that we can adapt to any new legal requirements swiftly and responsibly.

SACAI registration for Grades 10 to 12: What this means for parents

Think Digital Academy is proudly registered with SACAI (South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute) for Grades 10 to 12. This means that students studying with us in these grades will be able to complete their high school education with a recognised qualification. SACAI provides an alternative route to obtaining the National Senior Certificate (NSC), which is the South African matriculation qualification. This registration ensures that our students have access to nationally accepted assessments and certifications, enabling them to pursue higher education or enter the workforce with a recognised qualification.

For parents of high school students, this offers an added layer of assurance that their children’s education through Think Digital Academy meets rigorous academic standards, aligned with those of traditional schools. It’s a testament to our commitment to providing not just a flexible education, but also one that is respected and accredited within South Africa’s educational system.

What parents of Grades 1 to 9 should do

For parents with children in Grades 1 to 9 who are using Think Digital Academy to support their schooling journey, it’s important to understand that registration with the Department of Education as a home / online-schooler is necessary. The South African government requires all parents who homeschool their children to formally register with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

This registration process is essential in ensuring that your child’s education is recognised by the state and that they are receiving an education that aligns with national standards. While Think Digital Academy provides a comprehensive curriculum and support for homeschooling families, registration with the DBE is an important step for compliance with South Africa’s education laws. This ensures that children are not only being supported by quality online resources but also that their educational journey is fully legitimate.

Why choose Think Digital Academy?

  1. Quality education: Think Digital Academy offers world-class education using the British International, South African CAPS and United States GED curricula. Our approach is designed to be flexible and personalised, allowing students to progress at their own pace while receiving the support they need to succeed. We focus on engaging and interactive learning experiences that help students thrive academically.
  2. Accredited curriculum: While we are working toward full compliance with the legal framework, our curriculum follows best practices and international standards, which means that our students are well-prepared for further education or the workforce, both locally and globally.
  3. Flexibility and accessibility: One of the main reasons parents choose online education is the flexibility it offers. Online schooling provides a tailored learning experience that allows students to learn at their own pace, from anywhere in the world, making it an excellent choice for children with unique learning needs or those involved in extracurricular activities like the arts, sports or travel.
  4. Supportive community: Our dedicated educators and support staff are always available to help both students and parents. From providing academic guidance to offering emotional support, Think Digital Academy ensures that every family feels supported throughout their online learning journey.

As the education sector in South Africa continues to evolve, the landscape for online schools is shifting and the implementation of the BELA Bill may usher in new regulations that will help streamline and legitimise online schooling. It is important for parents to understand that online schooling is not illegal and remains a valid, effective method of education. The potential changes simply aim to bring clarity and structure to an increasingly popular choice.

Think Digital Academy is committed to providing students with a quality education and ensuring that our online school meets all future regulatory requirements. We encourage parents to embrace the benefits of online education with the knowledge that we are here to support them every step of the way. Whether you are already a part of our learning community or considering enroling your child, you can rest assured that online schooling is a legitimate, forward-thinking educational option in South Africa.

Let’s navigate the future of education together.

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Why not try our online learning environment by enroling for our free 14 day trial.

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