A heart full of ahimsa: Ruth Beaglehole’s parenting revolution

In a municipal school in a narrow lane in North Chennai, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Daily wage earners, domestic workers and homemakers sit in a circle, sharing the struggles of raising teens in neighborhoods marked by violence and addiction.

“It was easier when they were younger,” said Anandi, whose husband is a fisherman. “Now they barely speak to us and don’t listen.”

These parents are here to learn new ways of parenting. In the sessions, they explore the teenage brain – how it works and what teens truly need. “I thought hitting was discipline,” said Buvana, 35, a domestic worker. “I didn’t know love and safety were essential for their brains to develop well.”

Alongside the science, they learn practical tools – how to listen with empathy, manage anger, and set limits with kindness.

Slowly, change begins. “I used to beat my kids,” said Selvi, 27, a domestic worker. “Now, we solve problems together.” Added Amina, 32, a tailor, “My son listens and talks more, now that I’m being patient.”

Ramesh, an autorickshaw driver, said with eyes misting up, “After a long time, my daughter is speaking to me again and calling me Appa.”

The children feel it too. “My father used to yell and hit me,” said 14-year-old Karthik. “Now...

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