A holistic education prepares children for both academics and life. The aim is to educate children to understand how to face all types of challenges throughout life. Children learn about themselves, relationships, social and emotional development, and resilience. It is a philosophy that believes in teaching about what it means to be human. With all of the influence of social media, more parents are choosing a holistic education because their children will learn how to cope with the negative influences and grow into well-rounded adults.

A holistic approach uses academics as a basis for children’s social and emotional development. It helps children understand how to learn, so they become curious and engaged about a topic. Children participate in creative play such as dance, photography, speech, and painting along with all of the traditional subjects such as mathematics, science, and history. This approach seeks to make connections between subjects where students solve problems. They may approach learning a foreign language by applying skills they learned in math class. Subjects are not taught in isolation. Many schools use a thematic approach where problems are solved through multiple lenses. Students might also take advantage of internships, field trips, independent research and travel.

With a holistic approach, children find learning fun. In fact, its aim is to be so much fun that children seek to learn at all times and not just while in the classroom. Students understand that learning is not about memorizing facts and passing standardized tests. A holistic education allows children to use their creativity and natural talents. Thus, it creates lifelong learners who are not controlled by a classroom environment and individual subjects. 

Along with academics, students learn additional skills to succeed in life. A holistic approach to education encourages children to understand themselves. When children learn about who they are, it encourages self-confidence and self-esteem. It tells a child that she is worth knowing and just as important as the other children. Also, when children know what motivates them, they are happier and more willing to express their desires. They become better decision-makers because they have an understanding of what works best for them. Children will have more self-control because they have added insight about how to develop good habits and avoid bad ones. Overall, when children can be themselves, their lives are richer, and they possess the confidence to embrace whatever opportunity comes their way.

A holistic education also teaches children about relationships. Typically, children are only exposed to the relationships within their immediate family and what they see on television. Much of their exposure is based in the fictional realm, so they do not witness appropriate examples. Yet, all people experience contact with others daily and many have no idea how to successfully maneuver the give and take that comes with these interactions. Students with the holistic experience learn about positive relationships among their peers. They learn how to collaborate, share ideas, and work as a team. And, one of the strongest relationships a student encounters begins with their teacher.

Teachers who use the holistic approach form strong bonds with students. They build trust by nurturing children and valuing each one. Teachers help students find their strengths then build on them. Students perform better because they know they are in a safe environment with a caring adult who values them. Teachers allow students to take on classroom responsibilities and help create class rules. The teacher-student bond motivates children to learn and fosters an atmosphere of mutual respect.

Teachers also focus on students’ emotional growth. They take time to allow students to reflect or meditate about lessons. This reflection may take many forms such as a class discussion, a journal entry, or an exit ticket. The bookshelves are lined with diverse authors and lessons may teach about empathy or listening skills.

The holistic approach encourages self-confidence by giving students many opportunities to learn the material. Each unit does not end with a test but rather allows children a variety of ways to demonstrate learning. So, instead of simply answering questions at the end of a unit, students may show knowledge through a presentation, a piece of artwork, or a dramatic reading. Students will often choose the platform that is easiest for them, yet they are also encouraged to try something new.

Each child is valued and treated equally. Teachers intentionally spend time creating lessons that focus on developing the whole child and this includes social and emotional development. Lessons are relevant to students’ lives and may involve varying perspectives about social issues. Students can then share their viewpoints without fear of ridicule or admonishment because the classroom is a safe place for every child.

A holistic education provides numerous benefits. Children are more confident and are better adept at handling life’s many challenges. In their professional careers, they are more likely to possess the skills needed to collaborate, gather and analyze data. They are better problem solvers and are more likely to have a sense of social responsibility.