Patriotism as a value is a feeling that grows with age. It develops when as a child, you become aware of different sacrifices, hear stories of heroism and valor, get to know about the national symbols, monuments, important people, etc. This feeling of association with the nation, its culture, history, and most importantly, people is what completes the idea of patriotism. The values can only be instilled through a group of activities. It involves co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, efforts by parents, and of course, initiatives taken by the government. So, how do you do it?

• Clarify its meaning: Mostly, people misunderstand the meaning of this crucial value. Clarity on being patriotic and instilling patriotism is crucial as intense feelings often lead to terrible incidents. While the feeling of togetherness and a sense of a shared identity is important, it is important to respect unpopular opinions. People might not always be praising the country they live in and still be patriotic due to their respect towards the country. So, children need to be clear about what patriotism truly entails in a broader sense.
• Activities that instill patriotism: Educational institutions ensure that with the curriculum, children get to recognize national symbols, festivals, freedom fighters, monuments, etc. Patriotism as a value is more than just knowledge of these facts. It needs to be instilled through small acts and repetition of pro-country behavior. It means that you wish each other on national festivals, remember and revere the freedom fighters and national leaders. It’s equally important to have cognition of the fact that they fought for our safe future. It is the duty of parents and educators alike.
• Values are instilled: A few non-tangible things are not taught; they are practiced. Respect for national symbols, love, and support for one’s motherland is the values that can be instilled in various forms. One cannot simply teach people to respect or feel a certain way just because they were born in that country. Practicing a certain kind of behavior and involvement in activities for the love of the nation and alike can help align the values of patriotism in children.
• Storytelling: There’s nothing that storytelling cannot equip children. Read out the stories of valor, immense courage, and pride of freedom fighters. Watch together movies that share the common feeling of love and brotherhood towards fellow countrymen. This will help children to imagine right and understand what patriotism means to them.

Teaching and building a foundation of values in children can be a challenging task. It needs to be done during their formative years. This crucial value can make or break the future of a country. Patriots have the power to achieve and exceed the boundaries of the nation. They can help in rebuilding and setting newer marks for the country’s progress. So, try to inculcate these values in children’s younger time. We at Bhavans Prominent ensure to inculcate values that help develop a better personality and even better youth.