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When children ask questions like, “Why are traffic lights red, yellow, and green?” parents often have a few options for responses. Some may simply answer, while others might use this as an opportunity to engage their child’s curiosity. A new book, Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us About Raising Successful Children, emphasizes the importance of these everyday moments in shaping a child’s future. The insights are particularly useful for parents looking for the best educational path for their children, whether they are searching for best schools in Kolkata, or CBSE schools near me.

The 21st-Century individual needs six essential skills: collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation, and confidence. These skills are crucial for children, regardless of whether you are considering top CBSE schools or international schools.

The Six C’s: A Deep Dive

1. Collaboration: This foundational skill includes everything from learning to get along with others to managing impulses. In the classroom or at home, fostering collaboration helps children build stronger social skills and adapt to diverse environments, which is critical for future success.
2. Communication: Effective communication goes beyond speaking; it includes listening, reading, and writing. These skills are essential as children move through school. A child who learns to communicate well will find it easier to thrive academically and socially.
3. Content: Content knowledge serves as the foundation for learning. Without a strong grasp of language and literacy, children will struggle to engage with the more complex skills they need to succeed. Parents and educators can supplement classroom learning to ensure that children build a strong knowledge base.
4. Critical Thinking: Critical thinking begins with understanding that there are multiple perspectives. For example, when studying history or science, it’s essential for children to learn that different viewpoints exist and develop the ability to analyze and synthesize information. This can be nurtured both at home and at school.
5. Creative Innovation: Innovation requires a deep knowledge of a subject, which allows children to generate new ideas. Children should be encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries.
6. Confidence: Lastly, confidence is critical to taking risks and overcoming failures. In today’s fast-paced world, children need to be comfortable experimenting and learning from mistakes. By fostering confidence, parents can help their children grow into resilient, resourceful individuals.

Developmental Stages of Each Skill

Each of the six C’s develops at different stages. For example, critical thinking evolves from simple acceptance of facts to sophisticated analysis and synthesis of ideas. At the early stage, children may take everything they hear at face value, but by the later stages, they start questioning assumptions, understanding multiple viewpoints, and using evidence to form opinions.

Practical Tips for Parents and Educators

While academic institutions play a role in a child’s growth, parents are key in reinforcing these skills in daily life. Encourage children to ask questions and think critically about the world around them, whether it’s through conversations at home or during trips. You don’t need to enroll children in extra classes or buy gadgets—simple, everyday interactions go a long way in developing these vital skills.

For instance, when children encounter a problem, instead of providing them with the solution, ask them to think of multiple ways to address it. This helps build creative thinking and confidence.

Conclusion: Raising Brilliant Children in Kolkata

As parents in Kolkata consider their child’s educational future, whether they are looking for best schools in Kolkata, or nearby CBSE schools, it’s essential to remember that success is about more than just good grades. It’s about cultivating the skills that help children thrive in the real world: collaboration, communication, content knowledge, critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. By understanding and nurturing these six C’s, you can ensure that your child is prepared to succeed—no matter what school they attend.