Showing posts with label balance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label balance. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

My Reflections from the Masterclass 2024 - Roza Khan


To Copy Vs Not To Copy
Copying in School: A Shortcut with Long-Term Consequences

The choice to copy or not in school is a significant decision that impacts a student’s education, character, and future success. In today’s competitive academic environment, the pressure to excel can tempt students to cheat, whether by copying assignments or using unauthorized resources during exams. While this may provide short-term relief and the illusion of success, it undermines long-term growth and learning.

When students copy, they lose the opportunity to truly grasp the material and develop critical skills like problem-solving, time management, and critical thinking—skills essential for their careers and life. Conversely, those who embrace honest learning, even through struggles, achieve deeper understanding and personal development. The satisfaction of mastering a subject through effort far outweighs the temporary gains of cheating.

Copying also harms a student’s sense of integrity and self-worth. While cheating may lead to high grades, it erodes confidence, as the success wasn’t earned. True accomplishment comes from hard work, which builds character and pride in one’s abilities.

Teachers have a vital role in guiding students to make ethical choices. Beyond delivering knowledge, they can create an environment that promotes trust, integrity, and motivation. By supporting students through challenges and fostering a growth mindset, teachers can reduce the temptation to cheat. They can also encourage academic honesty by discussing its importance, explaining the consequences of copying, and using fair assessments that reward understanding rather than memorization.

Ultimately, the decision to copy or not carries far-reaching consequences. Cheating may seem like an easy path to good grades, but it hinders academic and personal growth. By fostering a culture of integrity and genuine learning, teachers can help students build the confidence and skills needed for lifelong success.

Honesty in learning leads to success that truly matters.

Affection Vs Rejection
The Power of Emotional Connection in Learning: How Affection and Rejection Shape Classroom Success.
The classroom is more than just a space for academic instruction; it is a dynamic environment where students learn life skills, manage emotions, and navigate relationships. Within this setting, the emotional climate plays a vital role, and the forces of affection and rejection have a profound impact on students’ academic and personal growth.

The Role of Affection in the Classroom: Building Trust and Engagement
Affection in the classroom goes beyond kind gestures—it encompasses emotional warmth, care, and support that create a positive learning environment. When teachers express genuine affection, they foster a space where students feel valued, respected, and connected. Here’s how affection drives success:
Fostering a Positive Learning Environment: Students who feel cared for are more likely to take risks, ask questions, and embrace mistakes—key components of effective learning. This supportive environment nurtures confidence and encourages effort.
Building Strong Teacher-Student Relationships: Genuine care strengthens bonds of trust and respect. Students who feel connected to their teacher are more motivated, cooperative, and receptive to constructive feedback.
Boosting Emotional Well-Being: Feeling cared for improves students’ emotional health, providing reassurance and resilience, especially for those who lack affirmation elsewhere.
Encouraging Social Connection: Teachers who model kindness inspire students to treat peers with respect, fostering a sense of community and reducing bullying.

The Impact of Rejection in the Classroom: Eroding Confidence and Trust
While affection fosters growth, rejection can undermine a student’s confidence, engagement, and emotional well-being. Rejection, whether through criticism, exclusion, or indifference, can have lasting consequences:
Loss of Self-Esteem: Feeling rejected sends a message that a student’s ideas and efforts are not valued, leading to disengagement and a lack of motivation.
Academic Struggles: Rejected students may avoid participation, lose interest in learning, or stop trying altogether, creating a cycle of academic decline.
Social Isolation: Rejection often leads to loneliness and anxiety, making it harder for students to connect with peers or thrive academically.
Long-Term Emotional Effects: The scars of rejection can extend into adulthood, affecting relationships, careers, and overall well-being.

Teacher’s Role: Cultivating Affection, Preventing Rejection
Teachers have the power to create emotionally supportive classrooms that promote affection and prevent rejection. Here’s how they can make a difference:
Providing Positive Reinforcement: Recognizing students’ efforts and achievements, no matter how small, boosts their confidence and engagement.
Creating an Inclusive Classroom: Promoting respect for diversity, encouraging collaboration, and addressing exclusionary behavior builds a sense of belonging.
Being Empathetic and Attentive: Listening to students’ concerns and showing understanding helps them feel seen and supported, mitigating the effects of rejection.
Building a Safe and Supportive Environment: Prioritizing emotional safety fosters trust and encourages students to embrace challenges.

Conclusion: The Power of Affection in Shaping Success
Affection and rejection are powerful forces in the classroom, shaping students’ academic success and emotional development. While affection fosters trust, engagement, and resilience, rejection can hinder confidence and alienate students.

By fostering affection and actively preventing rejection, teachers and schools can create environments where students feel valued, supported, and emotionally secure. This foundation of emotional connection not only promotes academic success but also prepares students for a lifetime of well-being and fulfillment.

War Vs Peace
War vs. Peace in the Classroom: Building Bridges for a Harmonious Learning Space

The classroom is more than a learning space—it's a vibrant microcosm of society, where diverse personalities, cultures, and learning styles intersect. Here, the battle between "war" and "peace" plays out daily—not as geopolitical struggles but as the realities of relationships, emotions, and academic pressures. How these dynamics unfold can make or break the learning experience. Let’s dive into how conflict and harmony manifest in classrooms and why fostering a culture of peace is essential for thriving students.

When the Classroom Becomes a Battlefield
Classrooms, like any social setting, aren’t immune to conflict. These "wars," while not physical, can disrupt the delicate balance of a nurturing learning environment.
Student-Teacher Clashes: Misunderstandings, unmet expectations, or authoritarian approaches can cause friction between students and teachers, hindering trust and mutual respect.
Peer-to-Peer Tensions: Bullying, social exclusion, or simple personality clashes can sow discord among students, creating a tense and unwelcoming atmosphere.
The Pressure to Perform: Academic competition can push students into a constant "battle" for grades, recognition, and validation, leading to stress and burnout.
Disruptive Environments: Sometimes, the "war" isn’t between people but against the distractions in the learning space itself—whether it’s noise, disengagement, or a chaotic classroom atmosphere.
Creating Peace: Building a Nurturing Classroom Culture
Peace in the classroom isn’t just about avoiding conflict—it’s about intentionally fostering a safe, supportive environment where students feel empowered to excel emotionally, socially, and academically. Here's how:

Open Lines of Communication: Encouraging honest, respectful dialogue between teachers and students ensures everyone feels heard and valued. Tools like regular feedback, emotional check-ins, and inclusive discussions can preempt conflicts before they escalate.
Conflict Resolution Skills: Equipping students with tools to peacefully address disagreements helps create a culture of mutual understanding and respect.
Collaborative Learning: Group projects and team-based activities promote cooperation, dismantling the "me vs. them" mentality. Students discover that shared success is often more rewarding than individual triumphs.
Celebrating Diversity: A classroom that respects and celebrates differences becomes a place where students feel safe to be themselves.
Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence: Teaching students to manage their emotions and practice self-awareness fosters resilience and empathy, reducing conflict and promoting harmony.
Teachers: The Peacekeepers of the Classroom

At the heart of a peaceful classroom is the teacher, acting as both mediator and role model. A teacher’s approach to discipline, empathy, and communication can either fan the flames of conflict or extinguish them.
Teachers who prioritize understanding over punishment, model positive behavior, and engage students in collaborative problem-solving foster an atmosphere of trust and cooperation. By moving away from authoritarian tactics and toward empathetic engagement, educators can transform classrooms into havens of peace.

From Conflict to Collaboration: The Power of Harmony
A peaceful classroom doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional effort from both teachers and students. When harmony replaces discord, students not only perform better academically but also develop essential life skills like empathy, collaboration, and resilience. In a world often marked by conflict, classrooms can be the starting point for a brighter, more peaceful future

Peace begins here—one classroom at a time.

School! A new version

School serves as a multifaceted institution that contributes to the holistic development of individuals and prepares them for active participation in society

Here are several key aspects that define a school's purpose:
Education and Learning: The primary purpose of a school is to provide education and facilitate learning. Students attend school to acquire knowledge, skills, and competencies in various subjects.
Socialization: School is a place where students interact with peers, form friendships, and learn social skills. It is an environment where they engage with a diverse community, promoting tolerance and understanding.
Preparation for the Future: Schools aim to prepare students for future challenges, both in higher education and the workforce. They equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen paths.
Cultural and Civic Education: Schools contribute to cultural literacy and civic education. Students learn about their own culture, history, and societal responsibilities, fostering a sense of belonging and civic engagement.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Schools provide an environment where students can develop critical thinking skills and the ability to solve problems. They are encouraged to question, analyze information, and think independently.
Character Building: Character education is an essential aspect of schooling. Schools often emphasize values such as honesty, respect, responsibility, and perseverance to help shape students' character.

Like vs. Unlike
Everyone is born with a unique identity, and our preferences shape who we are. Some of these choices come naturally, while others are influenced by our surroundings. Let’s explore what shapes our likes and dislikes.
Personal Choices Matter
Our preferences are like a signature of our personality. Choosing to learn the piano instead of the guitar, favoring science fiction over romance, or enjoying solitary activities over social gatherings can reveal a lot about our character. For instance, someone drawn to creative hobbies may have a strong imagination, while a person who enjoys logical tasks may have an analytical mindset. These choices are more than just habits – they define who we are and shape our perspective on the world.
Influence of Environment
The world around us significantly impacts our likes and dislikes. Our food choices often reflect our cultural heritage, and our music taste can be shaped by the preferences of friends. This influence can be direct, such as parents encouraging a particular hobby, or indirect, like social media affecting fashion trends. Sometimes, we develop preferences to fit in, such as a teenager picking up a sport because their friends play it. These influences don’t make our choices any less genuine – they help us grow and connect with others.
Evolving Preferences
Our likes and dislikes change over time. A child who avoids vegetables may grow up to become a vegetarian, or someone who never enjoyed reading might later develop a passion for books. These shifts often occur due to exposure to new experiences, life changes, or personal growth. Being open to change allows us to discover new aspects of ourselves. For example, many people explored new hobbies during the pandemic, demonstrating how circumstances can reshape our interests.
Impact on Decisions
Our preferences guide our daily choices, from what to wear to which TV show to watch. They also influence major life decisions, such as career paths. A person who loves helping others might choose a career in nursing, while someone fascinated by technology may become a software developer. Even our relationships are shaped by our likes and dislikes, influencing the type of people we connect with and the kind of lifestyle we seek in a partner.
Respecting Differences
Recognizing and accepting different preferences is essential for building positive relationships. Understanding that others may have different interests helps create meaningful connections. Respecting diversity is important in various aspects of life:
In families: Allowing children to explore interests different from their parents’
At work: Acknowledging that colleagues may have varying work styles
In relationships: Understanding that partners don’t need to have identical interests
In society: Appreciating how diverse preferences enrich culture

By embracing these differences, we create a more inclusive and accepting environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. This fosters authenticity in relationships and a society that values individuality rather than conformity.

Right vs. Wrong
"Fostering Trust, Shaping Futures: Every Teen's Path Matters"
Adolescence is a critical and complex stage of human growth. During these years, young minds are like intricate puzzles, developing physically, emotionally, and cognitively—though not always at the same pace. This imbalance can create a communication gap that makes it difficult for teenagers and adults to fully understand each other.

The teenage brain, especially the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and impulse control, continues to mature well into the early twenties. As a result, teens often act on impulse, prioritizing immediate rewards over long-term consequences. While this phase of experimentation is crucial for self-discovery, it can also lead them into risky or challenging situations.
Parents and educators must recognize that these behaviors are not mere acts of defiance but are deeply rooted in natural developmental processes. Just as a gardener nurtures plants according to their unique needs, adults must approach adolescent behavior with patience and understanding, ensuring their guidance aligns with the teenager’s stage of growth.

Observing teenagers closely during this phase is essential. Parents should pay attention to subtle shifts in behavior, such as changes in sleep patterns, mood swings, or social habits, viewing them as important indicators rather than immediate causes for concern. Likewise, teachers, who spend considerable time with students, are often in a unique position to detect academic, social, or classroom participation changes that parents may overlook.
However, observation alone isn't enough—building trust is the key. When teenagers feel they have supportive adults who understand them without rushing to judgment, they are more likely to open up about their struggles and seek help when needed. Trust is cultivated through patience, consistency, and genuine engagement in their lives.

Teenage rebellion is often misunderstood as simple defiance when, in reality, it is a natural part of their journey toward self-identity and independence. Combined with peer pressure, this desire for autonomy can sometimes lead them to make questionable choices. This is where a strong foundation of trust becomes invaluable. A teenager who trusts their parents or teachers is more likely to seek guidance when faced with tough decisions or after making mistakes.
Creating an atmosphere of trust requires a careful balance. Adults must remain approachable and supportive while respecting the teen's need for independence. 

This involves:
Keeping communication open without being overbearing
Taking an active interest in their thoughts and activities
Providing guidance without exerting excessive control
Recognizing their growing maturity while maintaining necessary boundaries
Responding to their mistakes with understanding rather than severe punishment

While prevention is preferable to intervention, addressing issues with sensitivity is crucial when intervention is needed. If a teenager begins showing signs of troubling behavior, the response should be one of support rather than criticism. 

Effective approaches include:
Engaging in private, non-judgmental discussions
Expressing concern with empathy rather than accusation
Identifying and addressing underlying issues together
Collaborating on solutions that respect their autonomy
Keeping matters confidential unless their safety is at risk

The goal is not to control teenagers but to empower them to make wise choices on their own. Through guidance, they can develop emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills that will benefit them throughout life.
The success of any intervention depends on the trust built in calmer times. When teens know they have adults who genuinely care for them and respect their growing independence.

Heart vs. Mind
Navigating Emotions: A Contemporary Approach to Parenting Adolescents
Parenting today requires a shift from strict authority to thoughtful guidance. While parents naturally rely on their own experiences to offer advice, it’s important to recognize that strategies from the past may not always be effective in today’s rapidly changing world. As technology, cultural expectations, and social dynamics evolve, so too must parenting approaches.

Despite these changes, emotions remain a universal connection across generations, though they manifest differently at various life stages. Adolescence, in particular, is a time of heightened emotions, where peer competition becomes more intense, romantic feelings emerge, and self-identity takes center stage through personal expression and style choices.

The rise of digital technology has further complicated these emotional experiences. Social media amplifies peer pressure, making validation and acceptance even more significant. Friendships can deepen through constant digital interaction, while the need for social approval takes on new dimensions.

In this shifting landscape, parents and educators must adjust their responses. When teenagers make mistakes or display unexpected behaviors, patience and empathy should take precedence over immediate judgment or quick-fix solutions. Creating an environment for open discussion and understanding leads to more positive outcomes.

The goal is to help adolescents stay true to themselves while navigating emotional highs and lows. Parents can support this by:
Encouraging honest communication without criticism
Acknowledging their feelings while helping them maintain perspective
Allowing self-exploration while reinforcing core values
Teaching emotional self-regulation while promoting authentic self-expression
Effective parenting today requires striking a balance between offering guidance and allowing independence. By recognizing emotions as a bridge between generations and adapting to their evolving expression, parents can better support their children through the challenges of modern adolescence.

Smile vs. Frown
The Power of Expression: How Our Faces Influence the World Around Us

Facial expressions, especially smiles and frowns, play a crucial role in human communication. These simple yet powerful gestures shape our interactions, influence our emotions, and impact our daily lives in meaningful ways.

A smile is a universal sign of warmth and connection, crossing cultural boundaries with ease. Smiling triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin, naturally boosting our mood and spreading positivity to those around us. In professional settings, a sincere smile fosters teamwork, builds trust, and enhances productivity. Studies even suggest that smiling contributes to better physical health by lowering stress, reducing blood pressure, and strengthening the immune system.

On the other hand, a frown often conveys discomfort, disappointment, or sadness, creating barriers in social interactions. While it is a natural reaction to negative experiences, frequent frowning can unintentionally strain relationships, spread negativity, and even cause physical tension due to increased stress hormones.

The way we choose to express ourselves can greatly influence both personal and professional relationships. A smile can mend conflicts and build stronger bonds, while in the workplace, it conveys confidence and approachability. However, this doesn’t mean frowns should be avoided altogether—they play an essential role in expressing authentic emotions. The key is to strike a balance and recognize when a smile might be the more constructive response.

By becoming more aware of these dynamics, we can use our expressions more effectively. While a smile may not solve every challenge, it has the power to create a positive ripple effect, turning difficult situations into moments of connection and growth.

Remember: Your face tells a story—choose to let it radiate light and positivity.

What Makes a School? 

Have you ever stopped to think—what truly defines a school? Is it the towering buildings, the neatly arranged desks, or the blackboards filled with lessons? While these elements are important, a school is much more than just walls and books. It is a vibrant, dynamic space where young minds flourish, friendships blossom, and futures take shape.

The People: The Heart of a School

At the core of every great school are the people who bring it to life:

Teachers who do more than teach—they inspire and nurture dreams.

Students whose curiosity and enthusiasm make the classrooms lively and engaging.

Support staff, including administrators and security personnel, who ensure everything runs smoothly.

Parents and the community, who play a vital role in shaping the school's culture and environment.

The Culture and Values

A school is not solely about academics; it embodies the values it instills. It is a place where respect, kindness, and teamwork are nurtured. It is where students explore their interests, whether in science, the arts, sports, or leadership. A strong school culture fosters a sense of safety, belonging, and motivation for every student.

The Learning Experience

A truly great school goes beyond preparing students for exams—it prepares them for life.

It promotes critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving.

It provides extracurricular activities—sports, music, drama—that contribute to a well-rounded education.

With modern technology, learning extends beyond textbooks. Smartboards, online resources, and interactive projects have revolutionized education.

Beyond the Classrooms: The School’s Influence

A school's impact extends far beyond its walls. It shapes future leaders, thinkers, and innovators. It instills responsibility, discipline, and a lifelong passion for learning. Even after students move on, their school remains a part of their identity—an experience they carry with them forever.

Conclusion

So, what truly defines a school? It is not just the buildings or the books, but the people, the values, and the learning experiences that take place within its walls. A school does not just teach subjects—it teaches life. And that is what makes a school truly special.

Love Learning vs Hate Learning

Whenever I step into my classroom, I witness the passion and excitement in my students' eyes for learning. Their enthusiasm isn’t limited to just one subject—it’s a genuine love for gaining knowledge and exploring new ideas.

If you want children to develop a love for learning, it’s essential to create a positive and encouraging environment that nurtures their natural curiosity and excitement. Here are a few effective strategies:

Make Learning Fun – Use games, interactive activities, and creative approaches to bring lessons to life and make learning enjoyable.

Follow Their Interests – Tailor learning experiences to align with children's passions and interests to keep them engaged.

Provide Positive Feedback – Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Encouragement boosts confidence and fosters a love for learning

Foster a Growth Mindset – Emphasize the importance of effort, persistence, and resilience in learning, helping children

Understanding the Dislike for Learning

A dislike for learning often stems from negative experiences, lack of interest, or external pressures. Some common causes include:

Unpleasant Learning Experiences – Past struggles, criticism, or feeling misunderstood can lead to frustration and disengagement.

Lack of Relevance – If children fail to see the real-world value of what they’re learning, they may lose interest.

Overemphasis on Grades – Excessive pressure to perform well can create stress and anxiety, making learning feel like a burden.

Enhancing Engagement in Computer Classes

To make my computer classes more interactive, I integrate engaging activities and tools that cater to children's interests and diverse learning styles.

I use educational software and apps designed for children, offering interactive lessons, games, and activities that make learning fun.

I encourage students to apply their skills through creative projects like digital art, designing simple games, and making visually appealing PowerPoint presentations.

I introduce coding activities tailored to their age and skill level using platforms like Scratch Jr., allowing them to explore programming in an accessible and enjoyable way.

By incorporating these interactive strategies, I create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that sparks curiosity, nurtures creativity, and fosters a deep passion for technology and learning. 

Roza Khan
Sunbeam School Sarnath








Saturday, January 25, 2025

Concept to Creation - Masterclass 25th January 2025


Q1. Life rarely moves in a straight line. How can teachers support students in adapting to new environments or systems, drawing parallels to the resilience demonstrated by the founders in navigating different cultural contexts?

Q2. The situation where "all that mattered was how to crack the test, and learning was secondary" has been described. Does this still prevail today? How can educators balance the focus on exam preparation with fostering a genuine love for learning?

Q3. "You are a respected teacher, but everybody makes fun of you. Still, you have always remained cheerful." As a unique teacher, how do you maintain positivity and resilience in the face of criticism or challenges? What strategies do you use to stay focused on your purpose as an educator despite external opinions, and how can this help you inspire your students?

Q4. Like the founders of Vikas Junior Residential College, you strive to create a unique environment in your classroom. How do you differentiate your teaching to inspire critical thinking and creativity in your students?

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Brain - Urvish Singh

The brain is the most complex and mysterious organ, and still, scientists are researching how it works. The brain is two per cent of our whole body weight, but it uses approximately 20% energy of our body. As our body is made up of cells, the brain is also made up of neurons called brain cells, and approximately three billion neurons collectively form our brain. If you talk about the structure of a neuron, it has different parts like dendrites, axon, and terminal bottom, where dendrite is a hair-like structure, the axon is the middle part of the neuron, and the terminal bottom is the tail. Whenever we see something, listen to something or feel something, our sense organs send electrical signals to our brains through these neurons only, and the brain interprets this information. 

The brain is divided into two parts-left and right. Whenever we do something with our left side, our right brain works, and whenever we do any work with our right side, our left brain is working again. The brain is divided into three parts which are the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. The brain constitutes the cerebrum which is the biggest part of our brain and approaches 70% of our brain. This part and decides our thinking power and behaviour. It also controls the contraction and relaxation of our muscles. Another part is telecasters and the hypothalamus, which gives us information about temperature and the hypothalamus, which controls our feelings.

It consists of two parts which are Tectum and Tiguan. These parts receive information from the outer area and send it to the cerebrum. The hindbrain consists of three parts, the medulla oblongata cerebellum and pons, where the cerebellum controls the balance of our body. The medulla oblongata controls involuntary actions like a breeding heartbeat, etc.

Urvish Singh
The Fabindia School
ush@fabindiaschools.in

Saturday, December 26, 2020

Why do we Trust Simplicity? - Medley DGS

The straight from the heart discussion of teaching fraternity on Simplicity and Trust made me ponder upon the topic from the point of view of a Teacher, a Parent and a child. Trust and Simplicity are two different words but are entwined in such a way that one is incomplete without the other. Daily Newspaper ‘The Hindu’, once asked its readers “What was it that inspired people to follow Mahatma Gandhi?” to which a Class III student replied, “People followed him because he led a simple life”.  A student of class V said, “Gandhi Ji practised simplicity, he was fearless in speaking the truth; he practised what he said before asking others to follow.” All the responses directed towards the fact that is simple in thoughts, action and preaching made people trust Mahatma Gandhi.

I asked the teachers-

It might be easy to preach ‘’Simple Living, High Thinking’’ but in today’s era of ‘jo dikhta hai, wo bikta hai’ how would you make your students understand the value of simplicity?

Chandralekha:- That’s right, it’s not easy to make students understand why they should be simple? I often observe the girls, as soon as they come back from their outing/vacations that they start showing off their new toys, games, clothes and accessories to others in the dorm. I realized, this is the way kids show their happiness and excitement, but this showbiz can hurt the feelings of others who are left behind. As a school, we do many activities like giving a fixed amount to students which they can spend on school fairs. This helps them balance their priorities and value for money. Simplicity can be seen in many ways like in your way of living, in choosing your wardrobe, in expressing yourself, in dealing with an adverse situation, in your behaviour and words. As a teacher, I always make a point to appreciate simple efforts and behaviour in my class, so the students understand that simplicity is trusted and appreciated. 

Parents these days want their children to be smart more than being simple, how do you balance this?

Mamta:- We have to make children understand the difference between smart and simple, both these words can go together. Our Ex-President APJ Abdul Kalam was a simple and smart man. Simplicity is reflected in one’s thoughts and actions. Smartness is reflected as one’s intelligence which one uses to handle a crisis, manage people and situations. We often relate smartness with external appearance, expensive clothes, accessories and materialistic possessions hence, when we talk about being simple we get confused that the two words are opposite and to get one we have to leave other. Being simple does mean eliminating non-essentials from our lives, but that does not mean we cannot be smart. Bringing this clarity to children’s minds will help them balance the two virtues in their life.

As a parent, we often tell our children not to trust anyone, not to take stuff from strangers or talk to strangers. Now if we want them to trust others, is it not conflicting?

Rudrani: - It is very conflicting indeed, but at the same time, children must learn to trust. The news that we read or listen to show very often that children or even grown-ups getting into trouble for trusting unknown people. A trustworthy person always cares about you. However, there are many people who actually appear to be nice only because they want something for themselves at your expense. By getting exposed to various aspects of human beings and their nature through stories and real-life incidents, children can develop the abilities to judge the good and bad intents and motives of people. We always ask our children to be polite and nice to people, but that does not mean to put aside your skills of understanding and evaluating others. Children are told not to trust or take things from strangers because a relationship of trust can happen only when you feel comfortable with that person. In school and at home, children should discuss with their teachers and parents how to sense the intent of people, the ideas of belief, faith and confidence. 

How can we develop an environment of trust in our class?

Anubhuti:- Doing simple things with children can make them happy and content. In one of my online class, a student told me that today is Ria's birthday (another student). I wished Ria and blessed her, then we all sang birthday song and clapped for her as we would have done in the school’s assembly. This small gesture itself moved them. I did nothing special, but they all were satisfied and beaming with happiness. I was glad to see that it didn’t require any decorations, cake, gifts or chocolates, to make someone feel special. They trusted me with the fact that if they tell me something, I will listen and appreciate. I believe communication is the best weapon to inculcate simplicity in children. When we listen, give them opportunities to express their thoughts, the foundation of trust is laid.

As a teacher how easy or difficult is to trust your students?

Kirti:- If as a teacher, you want your students to have full faith or trust in you or they must share their thoughts with you then, you too have to trust them. In most cases, it's the students who prove to be more trustworthy. Once you let them know that you trust them, they won’t fail you. I've tried this with my class. Many times during the class test, I would go out of the class telling them that I trust them and believe that they won't cheat. After checking their papers, I really feel proud that just for the sake of good marks, they didn't break my trust. I also praise those students who failed yet chose not to cheat. To encourage them I also tell that, had it been for me, I too would have been tempted to cheat but resisting the temptation makes us earn trust and respect through it may lose us few marks.

Sugandha:- I am an artist. Just like a child, artists don’t understand complex things. We break everything into simple, comprehensible parts and bring it to our creation. It’s simplicity that we trust and get attracted to. By being simple and easy to understand, the teacher can earn the trust of its students. For me, it’s not difficult to trust children as they are simple and honest.

Simplicity is removing all the non-essentials from our life, eliminating complexity and chaos. Simplicity earns trust. It’s difficult to understand the complexity, and the human mind does not trust that it cannot comprehend. Thus, ‘Trust’ is the building block of any society. We cannot function for a day without trust. Buying groceries, visiting doctor, leaving the child to school, stepping out of our home all of it requires trust either on self or others.

Childhood means simplicity. Look at the world with the child’s eye-           it is very beautiful

………………………..Kailash Satyarthi


Team Medley DGS @ The Doon Girls's School, Dehradun - Anubhuti Sharma, Chandralekha Negi, Kirti Bisht, Mamta Kandpal, Neelam Waldia, Rudrani Ray, Sugandha Ahluwalia

Friday, October 30, 2020

Medley DGS: Honesty earns Respect!!

“Be a reflection of what you’d like to see in others. If you want love, give love, if you want honesty, give honesty, if you want respect, give respect. You get in return, what you give.” Anonymous 

Nearly everyone knows the story of the poor wood-cutter whose iron axe slipped and fell into the river while he was chopping wood and at the end, his honesty was respected and rewarded. For one, to build the character of honesty entirely depends on his/her family values and surrounding, and school becomes a major part of it. As I sit and reflect on my life as a student, I find several incidents when one was honest and got punished, and at other times, honesty not only saved but also earned respect. As a teacher its different angle, as you are the authority and the child looks upon you with trust. It is difficult to make children understand the concept of honesty. At a young age, children find a lot of things attractive and want to have them. In one such incidence, a girl in my dorm took a toy of another child as she liked it very much. As a housemother, it is my duty to know every child, and somehow I knew who did it. On confronting, the child agreed that she took the toy. Now came the challenge of whether to punish the child for stealing or to spare her for her honesty. Manier times to teach a bigger lesson one has to forgive smaller mistakes. That’s how we earn the trust of the children when they learn that their honesty has been respected.

गुरु  कुम्हार शिष कुंभ है, गढ़ि  गढ़ि काढ़ै खोट ।

अंतर हाथ सहार दै, बाहर बाहै चोट ।।

………………………कबीरवाणी

And this reminds me of another incidence where a girl took a book of another child and wrote her name on it. The other girl to whom the book belonged recognized her book and claimed for it and the argument started. Since both the girls belonged to my dorm, they came to me with the fight. On questioning both, I understood who was telling the truth and who was lying. After dinner, I took the girl for a walk and told her that I know the truth. I said to her “You are a good girl, and it must be something important that made you do so. If you are honest with me I will help you as much as I can”. She told me the truth that she had forgotten the book at home and was very scared of the subject teacher. Hence, she took that book. Then she started sobbing, thinking what everyone would say when they will know that she was lying. I told her one such incidence when I had forgotten my book at home, and my teacher did not say anything because I was honest and promised to be careful from next time. After listening to my story, the girl got the hint and promised to accept her mistake in front of her classmate and the teacher. As a teacher, it is also essential to maintain the balance between being strict and discipline and being understanding and approachable.

While pondering over this incidence today, I realize the importance of not only educating our children on “honesty is the best policy” but also on why it is the best policy. Just as in this story, one lie leads to others, and soon we find ourselves stuck in the web of our own lies and dishonesty. That’s when we realize that for a shorter benefit, we put our respect at stake. And the fear of losing our respect forces us to say more lies. Honesty is expressing our feelings and opinions accurately, and when we are not doing that, we get into an internal conflict that makes us restless, tense, anxious and fearful.

Hence, Just like Mahatma Gandhi’s Experiments with Truth, let’s do our experiment with Honesty in the class and outside and see for ourselves whether truly, honesty is the best policy?

Proud to be Educators From Medley DGS - Anubhuti Sharma, Chandralekha Negi, Kirti Bisht, Mamta Kandpal, Neelam Waldia, Rudrani Ray and Sugandha Ahluwalia 

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Happiness And Tolerance - Visionary JMMS

If someone asks, What’s Happiness? The answer for that would be Happiness is something which is around us; we just need to have the real eyes to realize that feeling from within. And if we’ve to draw happiness children would be the best portrays of happiness. Oscar Wilde one of the known authors has said  
“Happiness depends upon us", in Hindi “प्रसन्नता हम पर ही निर्भर करती है|”

The word tolerance means to be patient, have the willingness to accept the differences around you. To recognize, respect and embrace the diversity that’s tolerance for us. This tolerance can intake our actions to contribute, to create a healthy and happy life.

A teammate of ours who says,” tolerance sometimes builds among these children at an early age which eventually bring us at a blissful state.” Her story fits into these two values.

Tolerance Promotes Happiness

A girl joined grade 2 in our school in the midterm session of the academic year. She was confident, quite artistic and loved to participate in outdoor activities. After a week one of her classmate complaint that she never carries the lunchbox and has lunch of other students. A teacher asked her the reason she smiled and replied “madam my lunchbox is with my brother”, on that the teacher thought she might have her lunch early. Next day during the lunch break the helping staff noticed her lunchbox was empty and her friends without creating a fuss were happily sharing the lunch with her. Later the helping staff find out the reason and told the whole story of that girl to the Class teacher.

The girl had a younger brother in the pre-primary section and both the siblings use to leave home early for school along with the other students of their neighbourhood. They use to come to school by walking which took almost an hour. Most of the times they skip their breakfast which makes the younger brother felt a bit cranky with hunger and he troubled his sister on their way to school. She simply tolerates his behaviour, to reach school on time she let him have her lunchbox which worked as a result of gratification. 

On the other side, her classmate who had grumbled with the girl's behaviour was now happily sharing the meal with her without expecting anything in return. Its proved that if we spread happiness without expecting anything in return it’ll always pay back to us. The school principal also gets to know about this incident. And this thing compels the school to realize there could be other students too who might be missing out their breakfast or not bringing lunch because of some reasons. As the students in our school are underprivileged, our school then took the decision of providing the students with a morning snack just before the assembly as well as offering supplement lunch in the school. 

Sometimes we just need to have the ability to sense our pure thoughts, and then we have to implement it through our action and those actions will reach the perfect state of happiness. We as an adult get to learn to a lot from these children. Although they don’t have a clue as to what they are doing, unknowingly and without a clue they allow us to explore to do things. The girl displayed her tolerance by love and care towards her younger brother and her classmates accepted her behaviour of not carrying lunchbox by sharing their food with a desireless state of mind. Tolerance always helps to create a balanced environment which peacefully allows us to gain happiness. Hence, it's true to say “Tolerance promotes Happiness.”

-: Visionary JMMS @ John Martyn Memorial School, Salan Gaon, Dehradun -  Ambika Gurung, Parineeta Negi, Manmohan Kaur and Bharti Dangwal  

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