PW invited parents of Sparsh Global School and Sparsh International School in Greater Noida to share their insights on developing children’s social confidence

“We believe socialisation is best learned through lived experiences, not lessons. To our daughter Sharanya (class III) we teach the values of respect, empathy, teamwork, and adaptability through open conversations and real-world exposure. Extensive travel across India and abroad has introduced her to diverse cultures and perspectives, while time in Uttarakhand keeps her connected to family traditions and community values. Through our NGO, ‘Connect to Help,’ she participates in charitable activities that build empathy and responsibility. Warm, confident, and curious, Sharanya is growing into a socially aware individual who values meaningful human connections and positive contribution” — Shikha Shukla, founder, Connect to Help Foundation

“We prioritized the social development of our elder son Kiaan (UKG) early by encouraging interaction through school events, extracurricular activities, and our society playground. Regular conversations about children’s day helped them reflect on friendships, challenges, and peer interaction. This became especially important after moving to a new city and school, where planned engagements with teachers, classmates, cousins, and neighbours helped our younger son become more open-minded and confident. Playgrounds taught resilience and conflict management, while guidance from his elder brother encouraged interaction. Evening classes in music and sports further nurture talent and social connections” — Ritika Maheshwari, freelance Interior stylist

“I often feel the urge to guide every aspect of my son Yuvaan’s (class IV) journey, including his friendships. But our role is not to control, but to create spaces where connection feels safe, where mistakes are accepted, and where growth is allowed to unfold naturally. Because in the end, social confidence is not about perfection or popularity. It is about a quiet assurance — the courage to approach, to speak, to listen, and to belong without fear of judgement. It is also important to remember that not every child needs to be the loudest voice in the room.. When we stop labelling and start understanding, we give children the freedom to grow into who they truly are” — Ruchi Kapoor, Assistant Manager, Grant Thornton

“As working parents of Ananya (UKG) and Abhyuday (class V), raising them required intentional focus on social-emotional growth. Abhyuday’s Taekwondo built discipline, yet we noticed limited social confidence, intensified by pandemic isolation. Similar patterns appeared in Ananya, with reduced peer interaction affecting expression. Seeking holistic education, we chose Sparsh Global School for its balanced, empathetic environment. Through initiatives like Budpreneurs and sports, Abhyuday built confidence and communication skills. Without drawing comparisons we have encouraged both children to become more expressive, assured, and socially comfortable, and we are grateful for this nurturing transformation” — Sunitha Naik, Associate Director, S&P Global