Education is often spoken about in terms of academic performance, examinations and achievements. But at its heart, education is also about creating an environment where every child feels seen, respected and encouraged to participate.
This idea of building more inclusive and welcoming learning spaces is at the centre of “Creating Classrooms Where Every Child Belongs,” a book associated with Dr. Revathi Srinivasan, Director & Dean, Singhania Schools. The work draws attention to an important question facing modern education: how can classrooms become spaces where children with different abilities, personalities, backgrounds and learning needs can grow together?
A classroom is not simply a place where lessons are delivered. It is where children develop confidence, learn to communicate, form friendships and begin to understand their place in society. When students feel that they belong, they are more likely to participate, ask questions, express themselves and engage meaningfully with learning.
The idea of inclusion therefore goes beyond simply bringing different students into the same classroom. It involves creating a culture of empathy, understanding and mutual respect. Teachers play an important role in this process by recognising that children learn differently and may need different forms of encouragement and support.
“Creating Classrooms Where Every Child Belongs” comes at a time when conversations around inclusive education are becoming increasingly important. Schools today are expected not only to prepare students academically but also to help them develop social and emotional skills that can shape the way they interact with the wider world.
The book’s inauguration brought together a diverse group of public figures, administrators, education and social-sector representatives. The occasion was attended by Hon. DyCM Shri Eknath Shinde, Transport Minister Shri Pratap Sarnaik, MP Shri Naresh Mhaske, Thane Collector Dr. Shrikrishna Panchal, former Mumbai Police Commissioner D. Shivanandan, IAS Vipin Sharma, Editor of Thane Vaibhav Shri Milind Ballal, Shri Nikhil Ballal, Shri Purvesh Sarnaik, Dr. Ankit Thakkar of Jupiter Hospital, Social Activist Dr. Binu Varghese, along with other distinguished dignitaries.
The presence of people from different fields reflected the wider relevance of the subject. Inclusive education is not solely the responsibility of teachers or schools. It requires understanding and participation from parents, administrators, policymakers and society at large.
One of the most meaningful aspects of inclusion is recognising that belonging cannot be measured through marks alone. A child who feels comfortable speaking in class, making friends, sharing an opinion or simply being themselves is experiencing an important part of education.
For educators, this can mean looking beyond conventional teaching methods and paying greater attention to individual needs. For parents, it can mean encouraging children to appreciate differences rather than fear them. And for students themselves, it can mean learning that everyone does not have to learn, communicate or experience the world in exactly the same way.
The broader message behind the book is therefore simple but significant: every child deserves a classroom where they feel that they belong.
As education continues to evolve, the success of a school may increasingly be understood not only by academic results but also by the kind of people it helps children become. Classrooms that encourage inclusion, empathy and dignity can contribute to a generation that is better prepared to understand and respect one another.
“Creating Classrooms Where Every Child Belongs” places this conversation at the centre of education—reminding us that before a child can truly learn, they need to feel that there is a place for them in the room.
