Teaching Gandhi's Values to Preschoolers: It’s Never Too Early to Start

The Father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, is a leader who contributed significantly towards the freedom of India. His methods of non-violence and truth are remembered even today, 79 years after our country won its independence. While his work was dedicated to India, his morals and principles can be applied to all walks of life. Preschoolers may be too young to understand the complexities of our freedom struggle. However, deeper lessons in values such as honesty, kindness, non-violence, and truth can be instilled from the early years. And who better to show as an example than Mahatma Gandhi.

Let’s take a look at how his teachings can be translated to inspire our youngest learners:

1. Always Speak the Truth 

“Satya” was one of the primary values that Gandhiji lived by. No matter what happens, always speak the truth. This builds a keen sense of self and respect in relationships. It helps raise a credible and dependable individual. For young children, this can be as simple as admitting to things they have done. For instance, if a child has taken another’s toy and forgotten to return it. Let them understand that it is okay to own up to it and apologize. As for adults, remember to praise their honesty instead of punishing mistakes. This helps reinforce positive behavior.

2. Practice Kindness 

“Ahimsa” or non-violence was another principle that Gandhiji upheld. This is beyond hurting others physically. It means being kind and gentle with words and actions. For preschoolers, this can be implemented in simple ways such as not hitting or pushing friends and using kind words in daily interactions. Parents can model this behavior by using words like ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ while interacting with children.

3. Stand Up for What is Right 

While being honest and kind are important, one must also be able to stand up for what is right. Being just and fair is as important as being good to everyone. For young children, this can mean taking a stand for their friend who was mistreated or playing a game fairly. We must encourage children to express their feelings without fear and also let them know that it is okay to ask for help when needed.

4. Value Simplicity 

In a materialistic world, wants often precede needs. Gandhiji lived a quite simple life and preached the same. Rather than always wanting more toys and things, teach children to enjoy nature, invest in good relationships, and value experiences. These will become their core as they grow up. Also, it will help them understand that happiness does not always come from buying things.

5. Community Building

Gandhiji believed in living together as a community and helping one another because we are stronger together. For preschoolers, this can translate to working together in a team. For instance, tidying up the classroom after playing or working together with friends on a project. Teamwork can be encouraged in several ways, and children often enjoy their time together, making way for strong bonds of friendship.

6. Mutual Respect

Just as Gandhiji said, “people are equal, regardless of religion, caste, or background.” By making friends from diverse backgrounds and celebrating diverse cultures and festivals, children learn that diversity is what makes a group beautiful. At Dibber, respect for diversity and inclusion is taught is more ways than one — through songs, stories, food, traditions, and languages.

7. The Power of Patience

It is said that patience is the mother of all virtues. And Mahatma Gandhi showed patience in his lifelong struggle for freedom even in the face of imminent danger. For preschoolers, patience can be demonstrated in simple ways like waiting for your turn in line, listening to a friend without interrupting, or allowing someone to finish playing with a toy before picking it up. Parents can encourage this virtue by showing how to wait their turn and praising a child when he or she shows patience.

Developing A Moral Compass in Early Childhood

 As with many aspects of life, the practices we nurture early are the ones that endure. In a world where people look for instant gratification, important values such as kindness, simplicity, and patience are easily lost. In order to truly raise compassionate, global citizens who can contribute positively to the world, we must start teaching the right lessons from the early years.

Dibber — Where Mahatma Gandhi’s Values Come Alive

At Dibber International Preschools, learning is not just about ABCs and numbers. We believe in developing the whole child —- mind, body, and heart. Our centers are places where children learn honesty through open conversations, practice kindness and non-violence in their daily interactions, celebrate diversity with friends from all walks of life, connect with nature through outdoor adventures, and discover joy in simplicity, teamwork, and respect.