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The Children of Tomorrow: A Monk's Guide to Mindful Parenting
"I realize now more than ever that the future of our world rests entirely on our children. On their tender shoulders rests a great nation, a baffling world and a beautiful planet. It is, therefore, my dharma to share what I know so a parent's hand is raised only to protect their child." Penning his thoughts on the art of spiritual and mindful parenting, Om Swami sheds light on many a scenario where parents and children don't always see eye-to-eye. Believing that the right guidance at the right time can make any child recognize their true potential, the author shares some extraordinary insights based on his own knowledge gleaned from experience and various psychological studies that can help steer your child in the right direction. Touching upon parenting challenges, building the right pillars of guidance and nurturing core values, this book has all you need to raise happy, healthy children.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2019
125 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Om Swami
41 books574 followersOm Swami is a mystic who lives in the Himalayan foothills. Prior to renunciation, he founded and ran a multimillion-dollar software company with offices across the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 9, 2019
A must read for all parents. The insightful advices given for responsible parenting are very useful.
August 24, 2020
This is the first book by Om Swamiji that I have read. While this book is aimed at parents, there seemed to be quite a few points that I could relate to as a son. As a would-be father, I could choose to fly without a map and go with the flow using my moral compass as the guide. In my opinion, getting a second person account of what parenthood could look like from someone wise does no harm. I do not want to my lack of experience to turn into a live experiment on a beautiful child.
Parents and their children form the core of most families. A good family is about a sense of warmth and coziness when there are storms outside. A family should have the space for people to accept each other and yet have the capacity to forgive when one of the members err in some way. Since parents tend to naturally possess more experience compared to a new born, good families are formed when parents commit to good parenting.
In order for us to broadly grasp the message that Swamiji has attempted to impart in this book, he has created an acronym of his own with the word parent.
P.A.R.E.N.T. comprises of:
P (Play): Children tend to miss out on finding their inner drive, when their formative years are confined within a pre-defined routine by the parents. Children need space and trust that helps them build a sense of self-esteem and self-reliance. Playfulness teaches children to be less anxious.
A (Authenticity): If we focus on the steps involved on the task at hand, instead of over-complimenting the child for achieving end-goals, then the child would learn to have respect for the underlying process. This also allows the child to understand that taking short-cuts to achieve goals seldom helps.
R (Reframing): How we see the world around us is a function of our experiences. Our perception of this world might only be true for us. Reframing is the concept of looking at the world through a generic lens, the ability to drop our biases and make an attempt to look at both the obverse and reverse of any situation.
E (Empathy): We are biological coded to connect with others. "I'm here for you" is better than "I feel sorry for you." Parents need to learn to be better listeners. "I told you so" seldom works. Can we allow the child to speak their heart out and not have the fear to get judged? As a parent our first instinct would be to offer the right advice and then somehow pacify the child with our words.
N (No ultimatums): Kids go through the various stages as they grow, and they may not naturally conform to every direction that parents provide them. The child would eventually metamorphose out of the constructs that we want them to not conform to, if we are consistent with our broad approach to those constructs. Beyond a point even the child would get impervious to our ultimatums.
T (Togetherness): Having an individual identity is a good thing, however that does not take away our ability to stay connected to our dear ones. Research has shown that hugs act as a way to protect people from getting sick or vulnerable to diseases. It is hence equally important to build an environment that is equally conducive for the child to feel wanted and be connected.
As a son I could relate to many aspects in the book where my parents were right, and there were also instances where things could have been put in a better perspective when I felt confused as a child.
Parents and their children form the core of most families. A good family is about a sense of warmth and coziness when there are storms outside. A family should have the space for people to accept each other and yet have the capacity to forgive when one of the members err in some way. Since parents tend to naturally possess more experience compared to a new born, good families are formed when parents commit to good parenting.
In order for us to broadly grasp the message that Swamiji has attempted to impart in this book, he has created an acronym of his own with the word parent.
P.A.R.E.N.T. comprises of:
P (Play): Children tend to miss out on finding their inner drive, when their formative years are confined within a pre-defined routine by the parents. Children need space and trust that helps them build a sense of self-esteem and self-reliance. Playfulness teaches children to be less anxious.
A (Authenticity): If we focus on the steps involved on the task at hand, instead of over-complimenting the child for achieving end-goals, then the child would learn to have respect for the underlying process. This also allows the child to understand that taking short-cuts to achieve goals seldom helps.
R (Reframing): How we see the world around us is a function of our experiences. Our perception of this world might only be true for us. Reframing is the concept of looking at the world through a generic lens, the ability to drop our biases and make an attempt to look at both the obverse and reverse of any situation.
E (Empathy): We are biological coded to connect with others. "I'm here for you" is better than "I feel sorry for you." Parents need to learn to be better listeners. "I told you so" seldom works. Can we allow the child to speak their heart out and not have the fear to get judged? As a parent our first instinct would be to offer the right advice and then somehow pacify the child with our words.
N (No ultimatums): Kids go through the various stages as they grow, and they may not naturally conform to every direction that parents provide them. The child would eventually metamorphose out of the constructs that we want them to not conform to, if we are consistent with our broad approach to those constructs. Beyond a point even the child would get impervious to our ultimatums.
T (Togetherness): Having an individual identity is a good thing, however that does not take away our ability to stay connected to our dear ones. Research has shown that hugs act as a way to protect people from getting sick or vulnerable to diseases. It is hence equally important to build an environment that is equally conducive for the child to feel wanted and be connected.
As a son I could relate to many aspects in the book where my parents were right, and there were also instances where things could have been put in a better perspective when I felt confused as a child.
March 26, 2024
The Children of Tomorrow: A Monk's Guide to Mindful Parenting
There are certain patterns of challenges every generation needs to face. In this current digital era, where influx of tech in every way of life is penetrating faster than ever before, the demand of Holistic Education is more prominent than ever before.
"Children of Tomorrow" by Om Swami is a thought-provoking book that offers insights into the upbringing and education of children in the modern world. Drawing on his own experiences as a spiritual teacher and educator, Swami explores the challenges and opportunities facing parents and educators in nurturing the next generation.
The book delves into various aspects of child development, including the importance of cultivating emotional intelligence, creativity, and resilience in children. Swami emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to education that goes beyond academic achievement to foster the well-being and fulfillment of children.
One of the key strengths of the book is Swami's ability to blend spiritual wisdom with practical advice, offering readers a balanced perspective on raising happy and successful children. He provides actionable strategies for parents and educators to create nurturing environments that support children's growth and development.
Overall, "Children of Tomorrow" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern parenting and education. Its insightful reflections and practical guidance make it a must-read for parents, teachers, and anyone involved in shaping the future of our children.
There are certain patterns of challenges every generation needs to face. In this current digital era, where influx of tech in every way of life is penetrating faster than ever before, the demand of Holistic Education is more prominent than ever before.
"Children of Tomorrow" by Om Swami is a thought-provoking book that offers insights into the upbringing and education of children in the modern world. Drawing on his own experiences as a spiritual teacher and educator, Swami explores the challenges and opportunities facing parents and educators in nurturing the next generation.
The book delves into various aspects of child development, including the importance of cultivating emotional intelligence, creativity, and resilience in children. Swami emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to education that goes beyond academic achievement to foster the well-being and fulfillment of children.
One of the key strengths of the book is Swami's ability to blend spiritual wisdom with practical advice, offering readers a balanced perspective on raising happy and successful children. He provides actionable strategies for parents and educators to create nurturing environments that support children's growth and development.
Overall, "Children of Tomorrow" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern parenting and education. Its insightful reflections and practical guidance make it a must-read for parents, teachers, and anyone involved in shaping the future of our children.
November 14, 2019
A book with lots of 'Insight' on Parenting.
Although the book is on Parenting, reading it should really help everyone. It will not just help to become good parents but a good human being too. This book not only talks about how parents should behave but also how parents should not behave(not just in front of the children but in their personal life too) and that will bring the overall result. :)
Content is divided under 3 major areas as - 'Understanding','Building' and 'Nurturing' children.
Along those lines it guides parents with practical tips on how to control anger, build mindfulness and improve speech with children and everyone around, which in turn will nudge children to follow your suit in their life.
Main theme discussed in the book is - 'Lead by example'. Do it and children will just follow along. To make better children we must first become better parents first.
In the last chapter, Swamiji gives guidelines with short explanations which stays with us as a very nice summary and to do list items. Here are some of the bullets from guidelines -
1. Say Yes more than you say No,
2. Admit when you are at fault,
3.Respect each other and keep your arguments in the bedroom,
4. Channelize their energy and many more..
After all the guidelines, principles and 'tentative' rules,Swamiji says something beautiful - to not take it all too seriously. :)
In his own words, 'Don't make life such a serious affair. Keep up the playfulness and joy in life.It's a short one. And ultimately, everything is impermanent and cyclical. Everyone is here with a role to play; you must play yours and let them play theirs'.
Once again with lots of case studies,real life examples, funny anecdotes,humors and illustrations with all his other books, Swamiji brings us a wonderful new book on the important Subject.
A recommended read for everyone - not just parents but expected parents and children too. :)
It would definitely support in shaping the next generation in much better and stronger beings.
'The Children of TOMORROW'
Although the book is on Parenting, reading it should really help everyone. It will not just help to become good parents but a good human being too. This book not only talks about how parents should behave but also how parents should not behave(not just in front of the children but in their personal life too) and that will bring the overall result. :)
Content is divided under 3 major areas as - 'Understanding','Building' and 'Nurturing' children.
Along those lines it guides parents with practical tips on how to control anger, build mindfulness and improve speech with children and everyone around, which in turn will nudge children to follow your suit in their life.
Main theme discussed in the book is - 'Lead by example'. Do it and children will just follow along. To make better children we must first become better parents first.
In the last chapter, Swamiji gives guidelines with short explanations which stays with us as a very nice summary and to do list items. Here are some of the bullets from guidelines -
1. Say Yes more than you say No,
2. Admit when you are at fault,
3.Respect each other and keep your arguments in the bedroom,
4. Channelize their energy and many more..
After all the guidelines, principles and 'tentative' rules,Swamiji says something beautiful - to not take it all too seriously. :)
In his own words, 'Don't make life such a serious affair. Keep up the playfulness and joy in life.It's a short one. And ultimately, everything is impermanent and cyclical. Everyone is here with a role to play; you must play yours and let them play theirs'.
Once again with lots of case studies,real life examples, funny anecdotes,humors and illustrations with all his other books, Swamiji brings us a wonderful new book on the important Subject.
A recommended read for everyone - not just parents but expected parents and children too. :)
It would definitely support in shaping the next generation in much better and stronger beings.
'The Children of TOMORROW'
May 29, 2024
My fav quotes (not a review):
"P: P is for Play A: A is for Authenticity R: R is for Reframing E: E is for Empathy N: N is for No Ultimatums T: T is for Togetherness and Hygge"
"A small boy was at the zoo with his father. They were looking at the tigers, and his father was telling him how ferocious they were. ‘Daddy, if the tigers ""got out and ate you up…’ ‘Yes, son?’ the father asked, ready to console him. ‘…which bus would I take home?’"
"A man was late for work in the morning and was rushing to finish his breakfast. Suddenly, the phone rang. ‘If it’s for me,’ he said to his daughter, ‘just ""tell them I’m not home.’ ‘Okay,’ said the daughter. She picked up the phone and whispered, ‘Dad is home right now.’ ‘Didn’t I tell you to say that I was not ""at home?’ the angry father said. ‘You want me to lose my job!’ ‘Relax, Dad. The call was for me.’"
"There’s nothing called an extraordinary child, there’s just an extraordinary childhood."
"I call it OLD – Obsessive Lecture Disorder"
"P: P is for Play A: A is for Authenticity R: R is for Reframing E: E is for Empathy N: N is for No Ultimatums T: T is for Togetherness and Hygge"
"A small boy was at the zoo with his father. They were looking at the tigers, and his father was telling him how ferocious they were. ‘Daddy, if the tigers ""got out and ate you up…’ ‘Yes, son?’ the father asked, ready to console him. ‘…which bus would I take home?’"
"A man was late for work in the morning and was rushing to finish his breakfast. Suddenly, the phone rang. ‘If it’s for me,’ he said to his daughter, ‘just ""tell them I’m not home.’ ‘Okay,’ said the daughter. She picked up the phone and whispered, ‘Dad is home right now.’ ‘Didn’t I tell you to say that I was not ""at home?’ the angry father said. ‘You want me to lose my job!’ ‘Relax, Dad. The call was for me.’"
"There’s nothing called an extraordinary child, there’s just an extraordinary childhood."
"I call it OLD – Obsessive Lecture Disorder"
June 1, 2022
(Note I am not a parent, at least not yet. So this review is what I feel and not empirical proof that it works.) This is an excellent collection of thoughts to help parents think differently about interacting with kids. The call in this book is for parents to try the subtle, delicate route of interacting with kids. One thing I really liked in this book is there are no Do's and Dont's but plenty of insights, well justified insights, to help parents think and act differently in case some of their tried and tested methods do not work. I began this book with a bias - What would a monk know about parenting. The author addresses the elephant in the room in the very beginning of this book and makes a compelling case to read it. The book is well written, very easy to read and very engaging. Reading this book gave me a lot of ideas on how to deal with people in general or at least has enriched my quiver with different looking arrows ;)
April 27, 2019
A mustread for all parents
Thank you Swamiji for each and every chapter og this book. Right from the concept of Hygge to how to connect with children rather than succumbing to the worst tendency of OLD...i.e.obsessive lecturing disorder....this is a guidebook for all parents like me who are struggling like me with thr role of being a worth parent...especially to a teenager. Thanks for the consolation that it should not be taken for granted that a parent should be ar fault when a child says it so. All parents grab the book fast.
Thank you Swamiji for each and every chapter og this book. Right from the concept of Hygge to how to connect with children rather than succumbing to the worst tendency of OLD...i.e.obsessive lecturing disorder....this is a guidebook for all parents like me who are struggling like me with thr role of being a worth parent...especially to a teenager. Thanks for the consolation that it should not be taken for granted that a parent should be ar fault when a child says it so. All parents grab the book fast.
October 8, 2019
Very informative guide for all the new parents as well as experienced ones.
I have come across so many great lessons in this book most of which have made me realise that I need to change my ways of behaving with/in front of children. And also I did learn a very important lesson that was based on a research of 400+ biographies!
It did open my eyes about starting early.
I know I know you did not get the last point clearly, but I don't want to add spoilers here. You must read the book if you are a to-be parent or if you already are! Well congratulations to you for either of those cases :D.
I have come across so many great lessons in this book most of which have made me realise that I need to change my ways of behaving with/in front of children. And also I did learn a very important lesson that was based on a research of 400+ biographies!
It did open my eyes about starting early.
I know I know you did not get the last point clearly, but I don't want to add spoilers here. You must read the book if you are a to-be parent or if you already are! Well congratulations to you for either of those cases :D.
December 31, 2019
5/5
This is such a fabulous read!
This is an advice for existing (or would be) parents, the way it should be - balanced, non-preachy, grounded in tons of scientific reality of human psychology, peppered with anecdotes and Swami's signature jokes (where each of them has a pertinent message). Most importantly, this advice in the form of a book doesn't pretend to take itself seriously.
This is to be read time and again, before all the messages are to be 'aatmasaat'!
This is such a fabulous read!
This is an advice for existing (or would be) parents, the way it should be - balanced, non-preachy, grounded in tons of scientific reality of human psychology, peppered with anecdotes and Swami's signature jokes (where each of them has a pertinent message). Most importantly, this advice in the form of a book doesn't pretend to take itself seriously.
This is to be read time and again, before all the messages are to be 'aatmasaat'!
January 28, 2022
I was searching for a book on parenting. This was suggested by search. This is a book with great ideas. I don't how much I can implement them in real life, but I started noticing some change in my behavior.
The author just not focuses on parenting, but on lot of life lessons. Which is great...
Planning to read other books as well by same author.
The books although written by a monk, does not speak on religion. But stresses on inculcating spirituality in children...
The author just not focuses on parenting, but on lot of life lessons. Which is great...
Planning to read other books as well by same author.
The books although written by a monk, does not speak on religion. But stresses on inculcating spirituality in children...
May 1, 2025
As a parent and someone who finds Om Swami’s wisdom deeply moving, I was naturally drawn to this book. While the ideas may feel familiar, hearing them from someone I truly respect made them feel fresh and reassuring. The writing is simple, the message is clear, and the real charm lies in the anecdotes, short stories, and comic sketches. A light, thoughtful read that gently reinforces meaningful parenting values.
June 8, 2019
Simple writing. Nice examples. Not very preachy with some simple pointers. Someone gave this to me and I was Intruigued by what a monk has to say about parenting. He gives practical tips in a easy to consume manner. I wouldn't say it's a must read but if you do start reading there is value to be consumed
September 4, 2019
An amazing read! A book for parents and for children. The children of tomorrow and parents of today:) a simple read, yet full of in depth knowledge with illustrations and examples, real life ones. “The moment you infuse fun in any kind of learning, children open up immediately” and many more to take away. Thank you for pouring out your experience and knowledge in such a simple manner!🙏🏼🙏🏼
January 13, 2020
Though I did get the feeling at times that the book is more of a collation of studies, quotes, jokes and anecdotes from elsewhere, the book fulfils it's intention. Very simply written, it puts forth the things that are exactly needed to be a mindful parent. I specifically liked the way the gist of book is summarized in the last few pages. It is something I intend to read time and again.
October 26, 2022
This is my first time reading a parenting book and the author Om Swami has written such an amazing and insightful content that this book should be read and treasured by each one who wishes to be a good parent or even a good human.
I haven't been so engaged with a book for a long time now. Had to read this book twice to absorb the wealth of content .
Thank you so much Om Swami sir
I haven't been so engaged with a book for a long time now. Had to read this book twice to absorb the wealth of content .
Thank you so much Om Swami sir
August 21, 2019
An excellent parenting book everyone must read. Very practical yet very insightful. Each guideline is explained with real life examples and with disclaimer that obviously there would be exceptions. A definite page turning guide for parents.
September 11, 2019
Excellent book
A must read for all parents. It is major take away was:
There’s nothing called an extraordinary child, only an extraordinary childhood. Good parenting is what makes it extraordinary.
A must read for all parents. It is major take away was:
There’s nothing called an extraordinary child, only an extraordinary childhood. Good parenting is what makes it extraordinary.
April 24, 2020
It's a quick and easy read with some good snippets, not very different from what I expected. It shares wisdom from various books and blends ancient wisdom together on raising kids. Kinda average book.
Read
July 5, 2020I was looking for tips & guidance around raising happy & healthy children and as a parent how to steer your child in the right direction. I am so glad that one of my yoga pals recommended this book. Om swami shares his own extraordinary insights and experience which was very useful.
July 29, 2020
Very interesting and insightful read on parenting. Very practical suggestion and tips provided by author. Concepts well explained with the examples from society and from author's own life. A good summary of all the important points at the end of the book is quite a useful reference....
September 9, 2020
What a beautiful book it is. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a parent. There are some really useful tips for everyday and I am sure I will keep going back to this book as my little one grows up. Thank you Swamiji for such a great read
April 1, 2021
Some of the early chapters were really insightful and could see the parallels in all generations. The environment changes but underlying human emotions are still the same over centuries hence book is timeless in some aspects.
Great not only for parenting but growing as an individual as well.
Great not only for parenting but growing as an individual as well.
May 8, 2019
Though the book is listed under the"parenting" category, in my consideration every adult should read. This is also useful for the educators.
July 28, 2019
Great book with lots of examples.
September 15, 2019
Awesome
Awesome book -must read for very parent and children .parents should lead by example and not force their ideas .
Awesome book -must read for very parent and children .parents should lead by example and not force their ideas .
September 26, 2019
I found this to be a very useful book about parenting. The author puts across some great practical suggestions. Would strongly recommend for all parents.
October 22, 2019
Must read..
Another gem of a book. Thank you Swami ji for sharing these pearls of wisdom with us Hope we remember and implement them as we raise our baby🙏😊
Another gem of a book. Thank you Swami ji for sharing these pearls of wisdom with us Hope we remember and implement them as we raise our baby🙏😊
December 27, 2019
Good book on Parenting
It was insightful. I would recommend it to any Parent who wants to learn & aspires to put their best efforts in parenting their kids.
It was insightful. I would recommend it to any Parent who wants to learn & aspires to put their best efforts in parenting their kids.
May 1, 2020
Very well written. A must read for every parent.
Read
May 6, 2020Nice!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews