Good advice

Your June cover story ‘Getting the new academic year off to a good start’ offers parents of school-going children valuable guidance to ensure smooth and successful transition into the new academic year.

Instead of concentrating solely on academic preparation, parents should also focus on ensuring children’s emotional well-being, developing healthy routines, and good learning habits. Thoughtful start-of-the-year planning, consistency, and emotional support provide a strong foundation for ensuring children’s overall well-being.

Veena Shankar

Mangaluru

Using technology responsibly

Your Special Essay ‘Screens are part of modern parenting’ (PW June) is a good primer on how and why parents should permit thoughtful and responsible technology use.

The essay’s greatest strength is its emphasis on parental modelling, co-viewing and mindful digital engagement, recognising that digital screens are now an integral part of modern childhood rather than an avoidable nuisance. Its five recommendations are realistic, empathetic and easy to implement. By focusing on the quality of screen use rather than the amount of time spent on screens, the authors promote a balanced and healthy approach to digital parenting.

Aditi Gomes

Panjim

In praise of indigenous games

My heartiest congratulations to Punita Malhotra for her brilliant cover story ‘Combating social media addiction: joys & timeless wisdom of indigenous board games’ (PW April). It is timely and deeply relevant. Alarming statistics cited on children’s internet use, online gaming, and social media activity should be a serious wake-up call for parents and educators.

The author’s insightful portrayal of indigenous board games as more than simple pastimes is truly thought-provoking. The article highlights how traditional games strengthen family relationships while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience and social interaction. At a time when digital dependence is rapidly increasing, it serves as a timely reminder that some of the most valuable lessons in learning, character development and meaningful human connection are deeply rooted in our own rich cultural traditions.

Per the maxim: “Play is the highest form of research”; this article is not merely informative; it’s inspiring. It deserves to be read by every parent, teacher and school leader in the country. I have initiated it. 

I sincerely thank the editorial team of PW magazine for highlighting such an important educational and social issue. Your commitment to informing, guiding and empowering parents is truly commendable. Please continue this invaluable service of helping shape Gen Z into well-rounded individuals.

Victor Inparaj

Lecturer, Department of English, Amalorpavam Higher Secondary School, Puducherry

Valuable guidance

Your Middle Years essay, ‘Understanding Childhood Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes & Solutions’ (PW, June) addresses one of the most overlooked childhood challenges — anxiety. It helps parents understand that anxiety often manifests through physical and behavioural changes rather than words.

The article’s practical guidance on creating emotionally safe environments, encouraging open communication, and knowing when to seek professional help is particularly valuable. At a time when academic pressure, social media, and changing family dynamics are contributing to rising stress levels of children, such evidence-based advice equips parents to respond with empathy instead of dismissing anxiety as mere mood swings or misbehaviour.

Ruchi Seth

Gurugram

Must-read suggestions

Your Health & Nutrition essay ‘How digital screens are rewiring the developing brain’ (PW June) is a must-read for parents to understand the incalculable harm excessive digital screen usage is causing children. It clearly explains how excessive screen exposure can influence brain development, attention, emotional regulation and learning, while avoiding alarmism.

Vrinda Das

Kolkata