Understanding Pre-Teens and Children: Nurturing Minds, Not Just Grades

Childhood is not just about growing taller or moving to the next class. It is about building thoughts, emotions, confidence, and values that stay for life. At Srijan Foundation, we believe that when we support a child’s mental and emotional well-being, we are shaping a healthier society for tomorrow.

Today’s children and pre-teens are growing up in a very different world. Social media, academic pressure, changing family dynamics, and constant comparison have become part of their daily life. While they may look confident on the outside, many children silently struggle with confusion, fear, loneliness, or self-doubt.

The Pre-Teen Phase: A Sensitive Turning Point

The pre-teen years (roughly ages 9 to 13) are a time of emotional and psychological change. Children start questioning themselves, their relationships, and their place in the world. They may become more sensitive to criticism, more aware of social acceptance, and more anxious about performance in school.

At this stage, even small experiences can leave a deep impact. A harsh comment, bullying, pressure to perform, or feeling “not good enough” can slowly affect their self-esteem. If these emotions remain unexpressed, they may grow into anxiety, stress, or emotional withdrawal.

Why Mental Well-Being Matters in Childhood

Mental well-being is not only about treating problems—it is about preventing them. When children are taught to understand their emotions, express their fears, and accept their imperfections, they grow into emotionally strong individuals.

A child who feels heard becomes more confident.
A child who feels safe learns better.
A child who feels valued learns to value others.

By nurturing emotional health early, we reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and unhealthy coping habits later in life.

The Role of Parents, Teachers, and Society

Children do not need perfect adults. They need present adults.

Parents and teachers play a crucial role by:

• Listening without judgment

• Encouraging open communication

• Reducing unnecessary pressure

• Appreciating effort, not just results

• Creating a safe space where children can talk about fear, failure, or confusion

Sometimes a child does not need advice—they just need to be understood.

How Srijan Foundation Supports Children and Pre-Teens

At Srijan Foundation, we work towards creating awareness about mental health among children, parents, and educators. Through workshops, interactive sessions, and community programs, we focus on:

• Emotional awareness and self-expression

• Building self-confidence and self-worth

• Coping with stress, peer pressure, and fear of failure

• Encouraging empathy, kindness, and resilience

Our approach is simple: help children understand that their feelings are valid, their struggles are real, and they are never alone.

A Message for Every Child

You do not have to be perfect to be worthy.
You do not have to hide your feelings to be strong.
You are allowed to grow at your own pace.

When we invest in the emotional well-being of children today, we create adults who are kinder, stronger, and more aware tomorrow.

At Srijan Foundation, we remain committed to nurturing young minds—not just for success, but for a balanced, meaningful, and mentally healthy life.