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By Jiwon Yoon, ATR-BC, LCPC
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to human society. Following the computer and internet-based Third Revolution, we have now entered the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Information and knowledge are no longer the property of a particular individual or group, but something everyone can access anytime they choose. Consequently, the educational environment and methods are changing, and the framework of classroom spaces may be disrupted at any time. In fact, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we experienced the beginnings of an educational revolution, as education was delivered over the internet without the constraints of time or place.
Parents increasingly wonder what and how to teach their children to prepare them for the future. Questions such as "What should my child study in high school or college?" or "What career will be promising?" are common among parents. Just as many answers as there are questions exist: critical thinking, creativity, self-direction, and collaboration skills are frequently mentioned, though they are not easily defined. In the past, opportunities seemed to abound for those who acquired information quickly and comprehensively, so raising a child who simply followed instructions well might have been important. Now, it seems the era where parents can meticulously prepare their children for what they need is behind us, as children's worlds advance more rapidly than those of their parents.
As a parent who learned through experience, I sought to define what it means to be a 'good mother.' Although it might sound clichéd, I want my children to learn self-awareness and the pursuit of happiness. Regardless of how rapidly the world changes and the criteria for success evolve, a child who finds their way to happiness and the life they desire can adapt successfully without having to pre-learn every strategy and skill for impending changes. After all, the knowledge and skills needed to achieve personal desires can be learned at any time. Moreover, the barriers of higher education are no longer a prerequisite for acquiring knowledge in today's world. Hence, finding one's identity and what brings personal happiness becomes more important than attending a prestigious university. This notion becomes even more compelling when considering that the criteria for a 'good university' may collapse in the future.
One of the longest-running studies in history, conducted by Harvard University over more than 70 years, sought to identify 'the most important elements of a happy life.' According to this study, the core element of human happiness is 'the quality of personal relationships.' This factor proved to be far more significant than career status or marital and parental status.
While happiness is challenging to define precisely, we can consider how to attain it. Efforts to shape future-ready children should not overshadow the happiness experienced in current interactions with them. If children do not learn and experience happiness now, there is a genuine need to consider whether they can actively seek and cultivate their own happiness in the future.
Amidst the remote learning environments thrust upon our children during the pandemic, many parents were likely more bewildered than the children. Children adapt more flexibly to change than adults. Some parents may have felt increased anxiety if their children appeared to struggle with adaptation. The world has always been changing. Reflecting on the childhoods of today's parents reveals this. We have adapted to change in various ways, and so will our children.
It is uncertain when normalization will occur, but in preparation for the New Normal, we can focus on understanding our children's curiosity and desires, engaging in open dialogue, creating shared moments of laughter, and extending understanding in times of mistakes or setbacks. By doing so, we enable children to enjoy current happiness rooted in the intimacy and trust they have with their supportive parents. Happiness is a collection of momentary emotions felt repeatedly yesterday, today, and tomorrow, and it becomes more frequent with continuous family practice.
“We often impose the obligations of being future leaders on children but overlook their rights to enjoy today as masters.” - Janusz Korczak
Jiwon Yoon holds a master's degree in art therapy and has extensive experience in supporting children as a therapist through Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center and the Korean GS Caltex Social Contribution Project with the Seoul Foundation for Arts and Culture. She has also established the Hope and Art Studio in New Jersey and is involved in creating picture books and counseling programs for mothers and children in multicultural contexts.
Currently, she hosts the podcast "My American Child." For more information, visit Hope and Art Studio.
Photo Credits: Hope and Art Studio
