PERCEPTION OF PARENTS ABOUT THEIR ROLE TO ENHANCE FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION OF THEIR CHILDREN AT ECD LEVEL

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the perception of parents about their role in enhancing the freedom of expression of their children at ECD level. The study was conducted in Gilgit city situated in the Northern part of Pakistan. The researcher used semi-structured interviews as data collection tool within qualitative paradigm. Semistructured interviewed enabled the researchers in capturing qualitative experience, opinion, beliefs and perceptions of purposefully selected four research participants. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis approach and emerging themes were recorded. The findings confirmed that if parents focused on enhancing their children’ freedom of expression in early ages, they can better develop children’ complex dimensions of development such as moving, thinking, feeling and interacting with people and objects in their environment. Whereas parents who do not allow children to express their ideas and feelings they become less confident and perform low. The study recommended that parents should play an active role in developing their children’s freedom of expression at early ages by creating a friendly environment at home.