Let the Burden of Identity Change
By Dr. Ravishankar A.K.
The core purpose of education is to liberate a soul from its shackles. However, if education itself starts creating new bonds, its true value is lost. One such modern "shackle" is the heavy ID card that hangs around a child's neck. Today, we treat a child’s existence as a mere record, symbolized by a plastic card. For a tiny child heading to school, that thick nylon strap and heavy plastic tag feel like an unnecessary weight of discipline. While identity is important, it should never become a burden on a child's natural growth and innocence. Identity should be a reflection of one’s inner character, not an external display of pomp.
A Concern for Health
If we look at this scientifically, the neck muscles of a young child are incredibly tender and delicate. Making them wear a heavy plastic card on a thick nylon strap for six to eight hours a day can have adverse effects on their physical well-being. These straps often cause skin irritation and discomfort. Every child is naturally active and energetic, yet we focus on "disciplining" them with these tags rather than nurturing their natural vibrance. Our thoughts should always center on the child’s comfort and happiness.
Global Perspectives
Many developed nations have moved away from this rigid system. In Japan, primary schools use "Meifuda"—simple, lightweight tags that are pinned or clipped to the uniform. They are extremely light and do not strain the neck. In Finland, the culture of mandatory ID cards for young children is minimal; children are recognized through personal connection and trust, prioritizing their natural movement. In the UK, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines discourage hanging lanyards around the necks of small children, leading many schools to opt for clip-on badges instead.
The Responsibility of Elders
When choosing these ID cards, parents often overlook the discomfort they cause, focusing instead on the school's "branding" or "discipline." It is time for parents to ask: "Is my child comfortable wearing this?" Educational institutions must stop using children as walking advertisements for their school logos through these heavy tags. A school’s reputation should be built on the wisdom it imparts, not on the weight of its accessories.
Meaningful Alternatives
We must find alternatives that suit our climate and culture.
- Information could be printed on a small piece of soft cotton fabric and stitched onto the uniform.
- Instead of plastic, beautiful and soft embroidery can be used.
- In this digital age, a tiny QR code could be printed on the sleeve, which can be scanned only when necessary.
Conclusion
Identity is a part of a person's existence; it should not be a weight imposed from the outside. We often talk about the weight of school bags, but we remain silent about the "silent burden" of the plastic tag around their necks. We must break free from this rigid mindset.
In truth, a child’s smile and their enthusiasm for learning are their real identity. A child is like a blooming flower; we should not weigh the flower down. Instead, we must create an environment where the flower can spread its fragrance freely. Let us remember—every child is the responsibility of this society.
