Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s Parenting Wisdom: 11 Quotes That Can Shape Happier, Wiser Children

Words have power. They can heal, inspire, and sometimes—transform. For parents navigating the ever-evolving landscape of raising children in a fast-paced, unpredictable world, even a few words of clarity and wisdom can become a guiding light. When those words come from someone like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar—whose teachings have touched millions across the globe—they carry the weight of deep insight and compassionate understanding.

Parenting is not a one-size-fits-all journey. It’s a blend of love, patience, learning, and letting go. In the midst of expectations, schedules, and emotional chaos, it’s easy to forget that parenting isn’t about control—it’s about connection. Sri Sri’s perspective invites us to step back, breathe, and approach parenting from a space of awareness, balance, and heart.

Here are 11 powerful quotes from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar that remind us how parenting can be a beautiful spiritual practice when rooted in mindfulness, respect, and joy:

1. “Parents should become like children again – free, uninhibited, and natural.”

Children learn more from what we are than what we say. When parents allow themselves to be playful, spontaneous, and curious, it creates a space of freedom and comfort for kids to express themselves authentically.

2. “There is no bad mother in this world.”

This reminder is powerful. Guilt is common in parenting, especially for mothers. But love, even when imperfect, is still love. Every mother does her best with what she knows, and that is always enough.

3. “You don’t have to win all the arguments with the children all the time. Let some go.”

Letting go of the need to be right fosters harmony. It teaches children the value of peace over ego and helps build mutual respect instead of fear.

4. “As mothers, you can make children feel proud of doing (or giving) something for others.”

Instilling compassion and a sense of contribution starts early. When children are gently encouraged to serve or give to others, they naturally begin to appreciate the joy of making a difference.

5. “Take it for granted that your children love you too and accept their style of expression.”

Not all children express affection in traditional ways. Some are quiet, others rebellious, but beneath it all is love—often masked by growing pains. Trust it’s there, even if it looks different than expected.

6. “Become a good aunt or uncle to your children’s friends. Your children’s friends have more influence on them than you. Look out for their well being as well. Once they listen to you, so will your children.”

7. “Yoga and meditation are indispensable for the total development of the young mind.”

Beyond academics and sports, children also need tools to calm their minds. Practices like yoga and meditation cultivate inner strength, focus, and resilience that no textbook can teach.

8. “Children see their parents as strong when they stand by their commitments.”

What you do matters more than what you say. Children observe how parents handle promises, challenges, and responsibilities—and from that, they learn what integrity truly looks like.

9. “Introduce spirituality to children and also help them discover their own inner wisdom.”

Spirituality isn’t about rituals; it’s about nurturing self-awareness. By exposing children to reflective practices early, you help them connect with themselves and the world around them.

10. “If every child knows a little about the wisdom from the different cultures, the world would be a happier and nicer place.”

Cultural openness teaches empathy. When kids are exposed to diverse philosophies and traditions, they grow up inclusive, respectful, and globally aware.

11. “Make your teens understand without getting into blames and accusations.”

Teenage years are especially delicate. Blame closes doors. Understanding, on the other hand, builds bridges. When teens feel heard and not judged, they open up more willingly.

Parenting is often described as the hardest job in the world—and yet, it comes with no handbook. These quotes from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar don’t offer a rigid formula but rather gentle signposts—reminders that parenting can be less about perfecting and more about presence.

Each line is a mirror, asking us to reflect on how we show up for our children—not just as providers or protectors, but as fellow travelers, growing and learning beside them. Because at the heart of every child’s development is the quality of the connection they share with their parents—and sometimes, just reading a few meaningful words can be enough to shift that connection from stressed… to sacred.