Supreme Court’s Stance on Summer Extracurricular Activities
The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns about the prevalent practice of enrolling children in various extracurricular classes during summer vacations. A bench led by Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan questioned how children could truly enjoy their holidays if they are constantly occupied with extra classes. Justice Nagarathna remarked, “From the first day of the summer vacation to the last, there are classes for children. Then the school begins. When do they enjoy their summer vacation?”
Importance of Teaching Values and Manners
In a noteworthy observation, the bench suggested that summer vacations could serve as an opportune time for parents to instill values, etiquette, and proper manners in their children. Emphasizing the need for educating boys on how to treat girls and women with respect, Justice Nagarathna advised, “Treat them, give them good etiquette, manners, boys especially, how they should treat girls and women. Parents should teach them instead of sending them to extra classes. That is how the bond will develop between the parents and the children.”
Context of a Child Custody Case
These comments emerged during the hearing of a child custody case, where the mother’s counsel noted that the children were enrolled in extracurricular classes throughout their summer break. While the counsel argued these classes were beneficial, Justice Nagarathna highlighted the potential drawbacks, noting that excessive activities might hinder children from spending quality time with their parents. “So many classes are also not good. Just sit with them and talk to them. They will become better children, there will be better interaction,” she stated.
Parental Competition and Its Implications
Justice Nagarathna also expressed concerns over the competitive nature among parents to enroll children in numerous activities. “We go on sending them to these classes, and that is also a competition between the parents. I am sending my daughter to this class. I am sending my son to this class. And then eleventh and twelfth, CLAT etc starts. Day and night classes. They won’t have time to bath even then. That is how we are making our children,” she commented.
Encouraging Shared Parenting
Additionally, the Court recommended that parents, despite any disputes, should come together to celebrate important events in their children’s lives, such as birthdays. “Child will be most happy if both parents join together in the cutting of the cake and the celebration,” Justice Nagarathna suggested. However, the mother’s counsel highlighted allegations of domestic violence, noting that the children might have been influenced. In response, the husband’s counsel denied these claims, stating he only sees the children once a year.
Resolution and Future Directions
Ultimately, the Supreme Court urged both parties to establish a cooperative arrangement for shared parenting, emphasizing the importance of both parental involvement and the children’s well-being.
