Why Labelling Children Can Harm Their Growth
In early years education, children are constantly learning who they are and how they fit into the world. The words adults use around them play a powerful role in shaping this understanding. While labels like “ shy,” “naughty,” “smart,” or “slow learner ” may seem harmless or even helpful, they can deeply impact a child’s emotional, social and cognitive development. Labelling children, especially in their formative years, can unintentionally limit their growth, reduce their confidence and shape how they see themselves for years to come. What does “labelling” mean and how does labelling affect a child’s growth? Labelling happens when we assign fixed traits or identities to children based on their behaviour, abilities or challenges. For example: “She is a troublemaker.” “He is very weak in studies.” “She is the quiet one.” “He is hyperactive.” Instead of describing a moment or behaviour, labels define the child as a person, not the situation. Over ti...