Nakuul Mehta and Jankee Parekh Mehta highlight the importance of recognising learning gaps in children

Jankee Parekh and Nakuul Mehta were recently seen together in Mumbai at an event centred on addressing learning gaps in children, an issue they believe needs more attention in today’s parenting landscape. Beyond the spotlight, the duo, who co-founded The Indian Parent Pod, used the platform to start a conversation around the often-overlooked signs that indicate a child may be struggling academically or emotionally. The evening also marked the unveiling of a new anthem, Ab Sab Jayenge School, tracing a child’s journey from hesitation to confidence. The anthem features Nakuul alongside actress Shivangi Joshi, bringing out the emotional nuances of feeling left behind and eventually finding one’s voice.

Nakuul spoke about how such struggles often go unnoticed. He said, “Learning gaps are not always obvious. They show up in hesitation, distraction, or a child choosing to stay silent. Being part of Ab Sab Jayenge School made this journey especially real for me, as it brought back memories of adapting to new classrooms while growing up. What stands out in the anthem is the shift from uncertainty to confidence, enabled by someone who recognises a child’s potential. As parents, our role is to notice these early signs and create a space where children feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and try again. The right support at the right time can shape how a child learns and sees themselves.”

Jankee added that parents often miss these early cues while focusing on outcomes. She said, “We tend to focus on getting everything right, the right school, the right grades, but in the process, we sometimes miss what our child is feeling. Learning gaps don’t always come out in words; they show up in silence, hesitation, or a dip in confidence. Many parents assume these early struggles are just a phase, which means we overlook the moment when support is needed the most. The anthem captures this journey from feeling left behind to feeling included. For me, it is a reminder that when we choose empathy over pressure and truly listen, we can prevent a small struggle from becoming a lasting label.”