http://sadhguru.podomatic.com

http://sadhguru.podomatic.com

On safe cyberspace for children - The Hindu

On safe cyberspace for children - The Hindu

VALSALA TEACHER INAUGURATES SARGAVASANTHAM 2014

    Sargavasantham 2014 refers to the vacation camps proposed by Kerala State Institute for Childrens Literature (Kerala Balasahitya Institute under the Department of Cultural affairs, Govt of Kerala). This has 7 different camps in diverse locations of God's own country, during April, May 2014. All are residential and selects registered students (40 to 50 per camp) from all over the state. The camp covers topics like Drama, Story, Poems, Media, Cinema, Fine arts and Enviroment. An excellent opportunity for participants to travel and visit many tourism centres.

    Since last year the camp is conducted in various locations, said their Director, presiding over the inaugural function. Student participants who had attended the camp last year, like Nihaldas and Ganga had difficulty in containing their enthusiasm and said they were eagerly awaiting for the camps this year.

     Coordinator, Dr Radhika C Nair and other staff members of KSCIL are doing a wonderful task moderating the sessions.

STORY CAMP AT CALICUT

      Here is a simple and direct report of the Inaugural session. Valsala Teacher spoke elaborately and her speech is narrated from memory; hence might have omissions; please excuse. The lucid manner in which she spoke underscored her calibre as a veteran expert in teaching and writing.

      " In yesteryears, children were merely a simple part of the society, rather extended families. They didnt have much freedom to express and gain their wishes. The present generation is very lucky and quite blessed. The transformation is such that every child is unique and is considered a separate entity and personality is let to bloom independantly as one grows. From birth itself, their dream, wishes and aspirations are acknowledged. But, parents should not think that children as individuals are to be taken care of and should be provided for...But rather as perpetuators of mankind..."

     Teacher clearly pointed out the difference between reporting for media as a journalist and preparing literary works. Journ alism needs only superficial narratation of an incident and is simple. Channels call the development of such threads as a story. But, in literature, its better to start writing short stories. Initially it would be of the realistic category. Because one can easily pen on matters that one has experienced and on those that have touched one's heart. Slowly a young writer grows out of it with conscious effort. Real life instances and dreams form only the thread for a story. It should be introspected and contemplated or subjected to imagination and interpretation at a secondary level. From this stage, the writer can weave the story. The young writer thus grows out of realism. For this young writers need good language skills and depth in writing. They should gradually develop their own style and format. A thorough idea on the world around us is an utmost necessity. To be abreast of current scenario, they should regularly read contemporary works. Apart from this, teacher inspired children to read classics very well. This would provide a firm grip and sound base on story writing. Its always better to start with short stories and gradually proceed to novels as the canvas and time required for novels is immensely large. She warned children to keep dictionaries off from their writing tables during creative writing. The words naturally would have relevant meaning in the context intended, which happens automatically. Before venturing out as an independant young writer, extensive and exhaustive reading to gain a strong base in literature is quintessential.

      In the past, society had more of values and morals. People were conscious of God and Divinity. Later the thrust shifted to materialism and amassing wealth became first priority. This led to widespread social degradation, violence and corruption. To rejuvenate society, writers must have a spiritual inclination, for which each person should "look inwards". Epic Ramayana was recreated by Thunchath Ezhuthachan with focus on Bhakti, with aim of uplifting man to soul consciousness. She also elucidated why and when Spanish writer, late -Gabriel Garcia Marquez chose to create a sweet world through magical imagination and gift of words in his novel " 100 years of solitude". she recommended all aspiring wirters to read the english version of the novel. She also described the context of Veenapooovu by Kumaran Asan.

   The inaugural session had a beautiful prayer that took audience to the right ambience in a minute, followed by a welcome speech by the Governing Body member Haridas Mokeri. He said that Calicut was the appropriate location for conduct of story camp; Kozhikode being he traditional platform of many veterans like Uroob, Thikkodiyan, SK Pottekkad, Vaikkom Mohammed Basheer, MT Vasudevan Nair etc. Many popular contemporary story writers are also from Kozhikode. He said the camp which was earlier centered around Thiruvananthapuram only, has been extended to other districts since last year and was a grand success. He credited this to the present Director, Prof. Nedumudi Harikumar.

In his presidential address, the Director said that a book titled "Sargavasantham 2013" was compiled with the works received from participants of Story camp, Poetry camp and Drawing camp all clubbed together in a mutually linked manner. It is published at a discounted cost of 150 INR and showcases the talent of new generation. He recommended all to buy a copy. He also talked on his initiative of moving the published books from KSCIL headquarters to all schools in the state at discounted rates of upto 50 %, which has boosted sales well.

Offering felicitations on the occassion, Kamal Varadoor, (President, Press Club, Calicut) invited participants to be at their best not only during the residential camp but also in life here after. Only when the society is positive, would media reporting and stories become positive, as it is a mere spot description of daily events around us.

Other Governing body members; T Shebin, PV Sharafunniza also spoke on the occassion.

Many eminent writers like Subash Chandran, KP Sudheera, VR Sudheesh, Dr Khadeeja Mumtaz , UK Kumaran, KP Ramanunni, NP Hafis Mohammed, Indu Menon, Chandraprakash, PK Parakkadavu interacted and guided the participants during this camp.

 The concluding session on 28th noon was inaugurated by MK Raghavan, former MP, Kozhikode. He appreciated the institute for considering Malabar for the programme.

Story camp as part of Sargavasantham 2014 - Director (KSCIL), Krishnakumar(Balabumi), PK Parakadavu and UK Kumaran with participants

     During the final interaction with UK Kumaran, students were set on thought mode - What is the greatest surprise in life? Its nothing but that nobody in this world is aware of what is going to happen the very next moment; but we think and behave as if we are eternal beings on this earth. Death is an inevitable reality. There are many other things to worry about as well. But, one should always focus only on the positive aspects of life and live happily with content. His very work Policukarante penmakkal narrates a similar theme. He also quoted the pains of veteran poet NN Kakkad, who wrote Saphalameeyathra bearing the pain of cancer. He also explained to them about classics and the qualities that take up a work to such great levels.

  The camp has given freshers an opportunity to know what to read and how to develop one's skills, while it gave others a chance to discuss in depth their doubts in writing with experts. In general, participants were enthusiastic that they expressed their wish and represented their wish that the duration of the camp be extended to a week,in future, showing the success of the event. Let all participants hold this as a memory to cherish their lifetime.

SCHOLARSHIP EXAMINATIONS IN KERALA

In our schools, children can opt to appear for different scholarship exams during October to December, every year. The syllabus covers general questions relevant to their age on literature, arts, sports, culture, society, values etc apart from current affairs and regular subjects at school- mainly science, social studies, mathematics and english.

Please find a list of examinatiosn usually offered in our schools. Details are not elaborated as most ae already available online. This is only  consolidation.

National talent search examination by NCERT
http://www.ncert.nic.in/programmes/talent_exam/index_talent.html

National talent search exam by SCERT
http://www.scert.kerala.gov.in/

National Science talent Search examinaton by Unified Council
http://www.unifiedcouncil.com/

Scholarship and talent reward test by Resonance
http://www.resostart.in/

Satyadeepam Schoalrship exam
http://www.sathyadeepamscholarship.org/?page_id=2

Deepika Children's League
http://www.littlefloweririnjalakuda.com/lfchss/DCL.html

PCM Scholarship exam
http://www.curriculumindia.com/pcmscolarship.aspx

Sarvodaya Award Scholarship Scheme
http://www.scholarshipsarvodaya.org


In our state, students also have scholarship exams from Orchard India, Holy faith International and Guru Sishya also. Apart from LSS and USS exams. Smart India, Unified Council, MaRRS etc conduct Maths and Cyber Olympiads also.

 If you can add any, please intimate by email. information provided would definitely be acknowledged publicly. 

EDUCATIONAL GAMES FOR YOUNGSTERS

 Summer is at its peak now and children are enjoying a vacation of two months. How to engage them during the day is a real concern for most parents. Getting glued to the television is something which parents naturally don't cherish! Indoor games form an alternative to such situations.

 The variety of puzzles, board games, karoake systems etc are numerous. Most of these toys are educational as well. Scrabble or Spell check is a best example that enhances vocabulary. Discovery India from RK toys, Mumbai helps children to get familiar with latitudes and longitudes, location of about 40 places and the map of India.

  Apart from familiar indoor games like snake and ladders, ludo, carroms, chess, chinese checkers, scotland yard etc these can help children enjoy quality time. 

 Play doh with moulds helps small kids to make wonders with their fingers while the elder lots can sculpt easily with their imagination.

 Residential Associations that have a common meeting place can organise children of their locality, with house wives taking turns to monitor kids for one or two sessions of 2-3 hours, say 9am-1pm and 2pm-4pm on working days. This would help children gain exposure to a wide variety of such games. 
  
PLUG 'N' SING KARAOKE SYSTEM

This is helpful for students of music who have the aptitude to pick western songs, pop and rock. 

With a Television screen and DVD player, we can use the Emerson's Plug 'N' Sing karaoke microphone and DVD of songs. Please watch the video to know how it functions. 

JIGSAW PUZZLES
 To know about jigsaw puzzles. please read the following link.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jigsaw_puzzle

Many toy companies offer a wide diversity of 2D puzzles. Scholastic comes with a puzzle of 42 pieces for age 3+. Their Aeroplane puzzle has been designed by Preeti Sharma. Cost Rs 125.
Scholastic India is basically into reading and enhancing vocabulary in children through numerous story books.(http://scholastic.co.in/)
To catch a glimpse of various toys, visit their book fairs.

FUNSKOOL

 To know about the diverse toys - creative, play doh, games, toys for all age groups from rattlers for babies to age 13+, do visit their website that provides all details. http://funskoolindia.com/

CUBIC FUN - 3D PUZZLES

Popular for their diverse architectural designs on The White house, Tokyo tower, Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal and so on; each puzzle takes about 2 hours for initial assembly. No need of scissors or glue. Cost varies with design selected. Tokyo tower now comes at Rs 245/- Guiding instructions are provided along with and children can accomplish the task of assembling the puzzle all by themselves. Although kids need to have a good amount of patience, it enhances creative potential and confidence. To see the different pictures please visit their beautiful website: http://www.cubicfun.com/

Find your choice of toys suitable for your age and enjoy the vacation indoors during peak sun. Of course, play outdoors and do visit children's parks, beach drives and ice cream parlours too... 

READING KIDS MAGAZINES DURING VACATION

To find images of about 28 children's magazines please visit the link below.
http://www.themediaant.com/childrens-magazines-india-advertising

It covers Malayalam magazines like Balarama, Kalikuduka, Balabhumi etc. The list is not exhaustive as there are other popular kids magazines like THALIRU from KSCIL, THATHAMMA from Deshabhimani, CHILDREN'S DIGEST from Deepika and others.

There are enough kids pages in all dailies also to keep children thoroughly engaged. Vidya in Mathrubhumi, Young world in The Hindu, Choclate in Deepika are other examples. Malayala Manorama has diverse magazines for youngsters including Digest and Tell me Why which are GK oriented along with stories and colouring magazines for toddlers.

A visit to the local library during the vacation to browse these story books would definitely help instill reading habit in small fellows. Explore and grab the ones that suit your taste.

Team Explore launches 'Kid's Explorer', a fortnightly kids magazine

Team Explore launches 'Kid's Explorer', a fortnightly kids magazine

NOBILITY OF TEACHING AS A PROFESSION...

  Every teacher has one's own way to facilitate their wards. With experience, one gains awareness on the nature of every student, their attributes, abilities and behaviour patterns.

 Teachers have an equal role in identifying in-borne and latent talent which helps parents to nurture the same and develop it into rewarding professional skills.

 At times, situations also assume the role of eminent teachers. So does some books or even biographies and legends.

Certain teachers empathize with their students and handle situations in a motherly fashion, with utmost care and concern. Some others are great mentors and guide their wards easily to success. It's those handful whom a student approaches openly, at times of need, who leave a lasting impact on their students.

Whatever be the nature of these teachers who stand out, all of them- teachers, trainers, mentors and facilitators- impart education to their kids not only on academic brilliance for a living but equip them simultaneously with the education for life as well.

Generally, such a teacher takes the specific subject thoroughly in less than half the time allotted to them. They use the remaining time for personal development aspects. Time is never a constraint for them. For them, handling students during leisure and extra hours are enjoyable engagements too. Teaching, we realise is not a job, but true passion for them.

 The modus operandi varies depending on personal interest and abilities of the teacher. Here are some of the approaches and attitudes of such positive light houses. They easily lit the lamp within their wards...

• ·        Displays movies for children in Smart Class Virtual Boards.
• ·        Narrates stories from epics and provide scripts for theatre arts.
• ·        Provides platform to hone and perform individual talent.(light music, recitation, dance, instrumental music, speech, etc) The periodic opportunity extended is a natural facilitator for the kids to learn new items and perform with confidence.
• ·        Entrusts wards with responsibilities to conduct/ organize events like GK quiz, anchoring assembly, drafting and presenting daily news, etc.
• ·        Enable students to help their weak peers in taking food, in studies, in doing projects and even in ECA as a personal or group responsibility. We have had teachers who even clean hair off lice and cut nails for our mates. They also help them to wear socks and even their tie properly.
• ·        Some teachers conduct literary contests in class like essay, features, collages, quotations, newsletters, etc.
• ·        Some others conduct monthly celebrations in the class which includes birthdays of students , appreciation of winners in external programs, etc.
• ·        Organizing picnics and frequent educational tours are other remarkable qualities.
• ·        Some teachers facilitate charity to orphans, aged and downtrodden. There were occassions when we donated our old toys, dress and bought sweets for these children and played with them. The resources that was pooled from our class on a single announcement was amazing. Another teacher taught us to share food with less privileged, by bringing a pack of home-made food, whenever we could. It made us conscious of the value of food and inculcated the habit of not wasting food at all. Some students gradually dropped expensive celebrations to cater to more precious basic needs of fellow beings.
• ·        Organizing celebrations like grandparents day, sibling day, friends day, etc
• ·        Festive occasions of togetherness ( Xmas cakes, floral carpets for onam, lighting crackers during diwali, etc) has put into us the spirit of cooperation and many more.
• ·        Empower students through projects and group activities.
• ·        Share stories of legends, inspiring occassions, suspense thrillers, adventures, life experiences, jokes, puzzles and what not?
• ·       Organise activity days like colour day, hat day, hairdo day, umbrella day, cookery day, fruit day, flower day, dress day, tuck shop and so on.
• ·        Mostly they are part of expert teams that equip kids for sports meet, literary competitions, youth festivals and annual days. Teachers accompany us for all external events and remain with us, cheering on our success and consoling us when we lose, inspiring to participate again and again.  Is this the greatest Confidence Building Mechanism?
• ·        They facilitate students to attempt daily homework and promotes self study and independant work culture through myriad ways.

Most of the eminent teachers uphold human values, love their wards and remain in their hearts for a life time... Young ones, as they grow, realise that they truly adore them...

(This is a personal observation on some of our dear teachers who have created a lasting impression on us. Our gratitude to those who succeeded in making us better, one way or other.)

KIDS VACATION IN KOZHIKODE 2014

Summer vacation is in progress for children in Kerala. Vishu the festival of prosperity was celebrated with gay. Firing crackers and gathering mangoes keep children engaged in this spring season. Blooming cassia's enhance the beauty of nature all over Gods own country. As every year almost all private schools had declared various activities and camps to engage kids during this vacation. Our personal pick on some interesting programmes are listed below.

MAD LIVE (TV fame)
Summer camp for a month
Time 10am to 12 noon
Age 4 to 12 years
Call- 9349019349, 0495 3273217

YOUNG CHEF'S CAMP by Abida rasheed for kids above 13.
first batch - April 8 to 18th.
second batch - April 21 to May 1.
Call - 2766756 or 9562691501

KSCIL 
Kerala State Institute for Children's Literature has declared camps on various activities in different locations for selected students. Please visit their website for details.

ADVENTURE CAMP
Age 15 to 40 years !
April 5 to 8, 23 to 26, May.
Jointly by State youth Development board, Devikulam National Adventure Academy
Call: 04865264494; 9497282233

CRICKET COACHING
by Universal Cricket Academy at St Josephs Junior School ground, PT Usha road.
Age 10 to 22 years
Duration 1 month
Call 9605423398, 9387490370

SANMARGADARSINI LIBRARY, Gandhi road.
Dance, Music, Keyboard, Drawing, chess
Call- 0495 2768344, 8281609344

SHUTTLE COACHING at Indoor court, Beach Hotel
call- 9400790711

SAMBODH FOUNDATION
April 23 to 28th
at NSS School, Tali
Call- 8547690774, 9745787519

OISCA 
Age 4 to 14 years
April 21 to may 3
call - 9567143157, 9639263840

MEDIA STUDY CENTRE & AMMAS COLLECTIVE TRUST
On film editing by Dr Benny Benedict
April 22, 23
Call- 9495864921, 9447373227

The following camps are in progress as usual or have just concluded successfully in Calicut this summer.
These are apart from the routine camps at various schools like Vidya Kendra, Start right and others.

VIDYA JYOTHI VACATION CAMP
by MASTERSAA SMART SCHOOL
April 3 to 6th
for Class 4 to 12th
on Magic, drama and others.
Call- 0495 2381402, 9037102135, 9037145258,9895860177

SATYANANDA YOGA RESEARCH CENTRE, Pavamani road
One month training
Call- 9847180023, 04952727505

POOMKAVANAM
April 1 to 13th
Chinmaya Mission School, Thondayad

BISMI HANDICRAFTS at Indoor stadium
Call- 9496424733
This covers different sessions every day. Making of bouquets with ornamental flowers, paper ornaments, clay jewellery, etc.

ROTARIAN CHEROOTY MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL
Ozonized class I pool with separate batch for girls and the only lady coach in Calicut city.

upto May 31, 2014.

POSITIVE MIND

Silver plaza Building, Mavoor road

Spoken english, memory plus, public speaking, character formation, leadership skills...

Call- 9388451609

TEN INSPIRING COMMANDMENTS FROM NIZAR JUMA

Who is Nizar Juma?
Please read his profile at : http://ke.linkedin.com/in/nizarjuma
(Winner of Silver Star award by the President of Kenya for outstanding service to the nation in 1982)

ACTION PLAN TO BE A BETTER "SELF"
(In his words, honesty is spirituality. His words are truly inspiring for aspiring leaders who are on the path of righteous living)

• Control thoughts. Be positive, be neutral. 
• Stop anger: No multitasking
• Meditate: Focus your mind for good decisions
• Don't give sorrow.
• Don't take sorrow, either.
• Be responsible. Never blame others.
• Schedule personal meetings with your own self.
• Manage your energy.
• Do something selfless everyday.
• Reduce dependance on technology.

(Courtesy: Speech on Future of Soft Power in Calicut; 2013)

TRUTH ISN'T BITTER, ITS THE LIES THAT ARE EXCESSIVELY SWEET...

This post title refers to the message of the malayalam movie, Philips and the Monkey pen. It inspires in us the very words of Swami Vivekananda: "Awake, arise and stop not, till your goal is reached..."
A movie that thrusts on righteous living from children's perspective, its a must watch for parents, teachers and kids. it not only throws light on various issues of children in present society but also enlists numerous feasible suggestions on how best to solve them...

1.      Wake up with a smile :  Thank God for this beautiful human life. Count on all your blessings and start the day with a smile. Be conscious of your 'self', that is be aware of your strength, talent, abilities, opportunities and resources.

2.      Dream well : Dreams, dreams, dreams. Dreams transform into thoughts. Thoughts result into actions. ( Courtesy Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam)

3.      Maintain a visual notice board: List out all your difficulties, weakness and problems on the left. Seek guidance to resolve them. Remember to tackle one at a time.

4.      Greet your parents and teachers early in the morning with a sweet smile: Fold your hands together, close your eyes and bow to them or wish them from the depths of your heart.

5.      Share your food: At home share food with siblings and mates. At school be sure to share with your classmates. During play and at camps share with your play mates...

6.      Keep your surroundings clean: Cleanliness is next only to godliness. Always be organized. At home or at school use things carefully and replace them in proper places. Let it be your books, clothes, slippers, bags, umbrella or even utensils. (time is quite precious; this saves for ample quality time together)

7.       Wash your lunch box: Always wash your vessels, before and after food. Take enough drinking water. Try to set the table if you can. Even at school or at work, make it a habit to wash your vessels.

8.      Talk to your mother: To err is human. We have a crisis when we realize something has gone wrong. It puts us into confusion, it spoils our mood and diminishes our enthusiasm. These are situations that one has to seek support for confession, healing and relief. Mamma's lap is the best refuge.

9.      Surprise elders: Show your respect and remembrance by spontaneous obedience and good conduct. Celebrate their achievements. Profusely thank them for their care and guidance.

10.   Prepare a balance sheet every day: Before you go to sleep recollect all you experiences and interactions every day. Is there anything to be done or said in a different manner? If so make sure to correct it the next morning itself. Live as if you are going to die just now and make sure you reserve a seat in paradise.(courtesy: Sr.Shivani)

11.   Volunteer: Always find time to do something good for others. Recycle and donate. Be generous in appreciating others. It enhances your self esteem.

12.   Discipline pays: Follow rules and laws. At times, it would create some difficulty, still stick to them. Short cuts cause havoc. (courtesy: Malayalam Movie: Philips and the Monkeypen)

Team work always pays.

Smart work is better than hard work.

GOD is nothing but LOVE... Its taste is sweet...

Children are God's gift, love them to tap their creativity and intelligence...to mould them successfully...

MIGRAINE - A POPULAR “HEADACHE” AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN

Migraine or severe recurring headache is now a popular health concern with school children, even at the primary or elementary levels. 

Medical Professionals say the real reason for migraine is unknown. It is common among sensitive adults and IT professionals.

What causes migraine at such a young age?

Basically, children who fail to stick to a systematic routine and are over anxious are easily caught by such headaches.It has a hereditary factor also(an inherited neurological condition).

Children of 5 to 10 years, experience bilateral pain, abdominal cramps and vomiting during migraine. They usually sleep off soon in a cool, quiet, dark room. Blurred vision, photo phobia, phono phobia, irritability are also common. These kids are mostly allergic too. 

In children, migraine is often under diagnosed. So, keeping a headache diary is advisable. Depending on frequency and reasons, it helps in seeking treatment when required.ie, when kids start missing school and social functions...

Generally there are many factors that trigger migraine headaches. It can be anything that the person is unable to or has difficulty to cope with. Sudden change in climate, surroundings, loud noises, penetrating smells, vehicle exhausts, smell of gasoline, watching too much of television, playing too much of video games, working for long on the computer, vision corrections or change of spectacles, rush and crowd, heavy traffic, hot sun, untimely head baths, irregular food habits, some types of foods and junks, improper sleep cycles, out of the way physical exertion, over expectations, force to undertake undesirable tasks, anxiety to execute assignments, difficulty in handling project works, pressure to study well and be a topper, emotional strain, restrictions to get engaged in pastimes of hobbies of one’s choice, wrong postures while reading story books or using computers, stress as kids realize and face difficult situations in life  etc.

Most parents often fail to comprehend the real reason behind such headaches and assume it as an escape or excuse mechanism adopted frequently by their kids to keep off from certain situations like exams or visit to ancestral homes or social events. Employed parents seldom get adequate time to be with their ward and assess their genuine needs. Situation aggravates with single parents or when parents are incompatible or have divided opinion … 

Children often need a patient hearing during their growing ages. When left under the care of maids, the way some queries are handled varies widely. For example, girls enter puberty nowadays at the end of elementary level, unlike former years. As they observe a classmate in a different state, they may have innumerable doubts. The manner in which relevant details are communicated to create awareness and empower girls is quite important. It should not have a frightening element at all. Restrictions if any should be imposed after logically clarifying all the doubts aired. They should be given proper information on all aspects including exploitation and pedophilia. These are stages in the life of a growing child when they need parental support to the maximum. So parents should try their best to be with their kids or ensure care by grandparents.

Follow a better lifestyle to cope with migraine:

• It is always advisable to enroll small children in nearby schools, walk able distance, wherever feasible. This avoids chances of getting tired after to and fro traveling and saves a lot of time. 

• Children should sleep for minimum 8 hours continuously every day. This is essential for proper growth also. A good sleep refreshes you for another productive and healthy day. So children should be trained to go to bed early and to wake up early in the morning. So, depending on parental convenience and the biorhythm of the child it can be any slot between 8pm to 4am; 9pm to 5am or 10pm to 6am. 

• Children who have difficulty to cope up with travel should be taken on long distance trips every weekend. It’s a pressure that they can’t bear.  In the present day nuclear families, leaving kids alone at home is not at all safe either. So, adjust and find good options, depending on one’s circumstances. 

• Some kids are basically adamant by nature, while some others are perfectionists or day dreamers. All such behaviour discrepancies heavily affect their relations with peers and elders. It also causes lot of stress in generating good work outputs. Such cases should be handled carefully. Seek professional help where necessary for Cognitive behaviour therapy by experts. Kids should be facilitated properly to set a positive attitude for life and to mould them into good human beings. “Catch them young” is the agenda for success here. 

• Present day syllabus is heavy and needs lot of hard work on the part of toddlers. Competition is also quite high. All parents wish their kids to be toppers everywhere. It’s fine as long as the children have the talent and capacity to achieve their parents’ desires. Otherwise it would be a huge burden on small children. So I feel parents should shun their ego and evaluate their wards holistically, instead of academic evaluations alone. Targets should be on par with ability and attainable through hard work. There should be proper support where necessary, on time and appreciations for all achievements. 

• Every child is unique and is a personality unto them. Don’t expect kids to bloom out into either parent or grandparent; but facilitate them to identify their true self and help them follow their destiny. Let them have their choice and opinions where ever it affects them to the extent practically possible and as far as it is right. Parents should tune their minds to tolerate their wards and accept them as they grow as different individuals. Make rectifications or intervene only when their path is dangerous or futile.

• Most kids are now fond of junkies. A total ban on such foods is not easy. So limiting such items on rotation and offering any one, once a month is better. Even biscuits contain chemical substances that gradually affect human brain. Home made broiler chicken at frequent intervals cause hormonal changes in growing children. Preservatives and colouring agents in junk foods are mostly carcinogenic too. Children should be gradually be empowered to know the drawbacks of these items and promoted to GO GREEN!

• Kids who are fond of reading adopt cozy postures to read story books and play video games. This should be discouraged. Reading books in moving vehicles is also not advisable.

• Good foods – Dates, nuts, strawberry, carrots, beetroots, spinach, so on. Eat foods that contain vitamin A for eyes, enough proteins and other vitamins, minerals and anti oxidants.

• Eliminating body toxins in time is a major requirement for children. Proper bowel movements and urination go hand in hand. Children often with hold passage of urine simply because public toilets are untidy. This can trigger migraine in many children. So facilitate children to eliminate waste as and when they need without hesitation. It should become a habit. 

• Adequate water intake is another habit to be ensured. Dehydration alone can trigger headaches. So children should be trained to drink adequate liquids at hourly intervals. Let them carry pure filtered or boiled water where ever they go. On holidays, children can be given natural diuretics - say barley water, puncture vine(njerinjil) or natural foods like water melons, ash gourds, cucumbers, which help in flushing out toxins.

• Intake of water can also be encouraged in a different supplementary way. Taking a lime juice after brushing teeth; a fruit juice after bath; milk before going to school, buttermilk or lassi during snack time, plain soup and curd during lunch; rice/wheat/corn flakes with milk or ragi with milk during evening snacks. Let kids take variety of nuts to avoid hunger at intervals. Almonds, peanuts, cashews, walnuts, pista are all fine for kids. Substitute fried snacks with traditional and indigenous items like Rice ada, therali, kozhukatta(rice balls), banana stew, jack payasam, tuber puzhukku and so on. A plain vegetable or fruit salad is also a good option. Children should be given a sumptuous breakfast and should never skip their dinner or any meals. 

• Children should be provided with separate beds at proper age. This not only helps them to adopt proper posture for sleeping, but also instills an independent growing up feeling in their minds. Pampering too much followed by harsh punishments would only spoil kids. Train children to relax in “savasana” posture before they sleep. (keep legs apart; hands straight and by the side of body; looking at the ceiling …) 

• It is always good to provide proper lighting in study areas and while watching television. If children have spectacles and have to study at a stretch for long hours, tube lights and proper ventilation are the best options. 

• Its better that kids don’t watch television on weekdays. If permitted, limit time to less than half an hour. On weekends and holidays, let them watch for a maximum of an hour. Occasionally they can watch a movie on home theatre. Family get - together can also encompass theatre shows and movies as outings to help kids rewind after a term exam or some cultural event or youth festival or so. 

• Set a daily routine and stick to it. Follow balanced nutritious diet. Take food on time or before hunger strikes the bell. Empty stomach is an excellent triggering factor for migraine.

•  Take bath in regular time every day. An oil massage at least twice a week would do wonders. Better take bath after sunrise and before sunset every day. During severe periods, use of pre boiled medicated water using thriphala (amla/nellikka, kadukka thanikka- dry fruits of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellarica) is also excellent. 

• Play outdoors every day with peers. Exercise daily – walk a short distance with grandparents, swimming, cycling are all fine. All these enhance “happy hormones” in youngsters. Yoga or sun salutation can tune one’s body with mind and spirit and in turn provide inner peace. 

• Maintain good inter personal relations by adjusting, cooperating, sharing and tolerating each other. Cultivate good habits. Follow good manners. Be obedient. Have a positive mind set and attitude. All this can ensure a stress free life as you take medicine.

 Lead a life free of stress and migraine…

A BIRD'S EYE VIEW - KERALA

Kerala is the southern most state of India.
It has 14 districts.
Formed on 1st November, 1956.
Capital is at Thiruvananthapuram.
Language is Malayalam.

Highest literacy rate - 99%
First computer literate state of India.

Long coastal length (seashore)
Climate is humid tropical.

Popular tourism location
Backwaters, house boats, water falls,
yoga, ayurveda, nature walks...

3 seasons - summer, winter, rainy(North east and South west monsoons)

3 geographic regions - eastern highlands(mountains); central midlands (rolling hills); western lowlands (coastal plains).

41 rivers -flows west -into Arabian Sea.
3 rivers -flows east- into Bay of Bengal.(Bhavani, Kabani and Pampar)
All 44 rivers originate from Western ghats.

Largest fresh water lake - Vembanad
Nilgiri biosphere reserve - hotspot of biodiversity.

Staple food - rice

Traditional industries - coir, handloom, handicrafts

Symbols

Emblem - Coat of arms
Tree - Coconut -തെങ്ങ്
Bird- Great Indian Hornbill - വേഴാമ്പല്‍
Flower- Golden shower (Cassia) - കണിക്കൊന്ന
Animal - Elephant ആന
Fish - Pearl spot കരിമീന്‍
Costume - Mundum Neriyathum for women; Dhothi for men.- മുണ്ടും നേരിയതും
Fruit - Jack ചക്ക
Dance - Mohiniyattom

SMART INDIA ONLINE EDUCATION by BHARAT SEVAK SAMAJ

SMART INDIA caters to students from LKG to class 12 and covers all syllabi - state boards, CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE. An enrolled student can access multiple choice questions as a practice test for all lessons in Science, Maths and English. This makes them thorough with the lessons learnt.

Apart from the significance of each day, remarkable quotations and links to popular newspapers, it provides a platform for studious students for current affairs update.
The class notes and animations facilitate easy learning, even for toddlers.

An excellent educational support extended by Government of India; at a reasonable cost.
For more details log onto https://www.smartindia.net.in

BIOGRAPHY - SWAMI VIVEKANANDA

"Arise, awake and stop not, till your goal is reached..."

an inspiring quote by Swami Vivekananda that comes to mind as one reads about the various programs associated with the 150th birth anniversary celebrations that are in progress all over the country. 

The greatest Hindu monk India has ever seen,that is Swami Vivekananda in most simple terms.

He was born on 12th January,1863 at Calcutta(presently Kolkotta).His first name was Narendra Nath Datta.His father, Viswanath Datta was an Attorney General in Calcutta High Court.His mother, Bhuvaneshwari Devi was a pious house wife. His brother is Dr.Bhupendranath Datta.

Narendranath (Swami Vivekananda) was an ardent disciple of Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.Narendranath met him during his graduation studies and was attracted to his personality and gradually surrendered to his guru.

As a student, he was a genius. He learned not only literature, science and philosophy but also about all religions. he believed in One God that is formless and universal. In his words, service to mankind is the most effective form of worshiping GOD.

After graduation, Narendranath travelled all over India as a brahmachari under the name Swami Bibidishananda. He lived on alms and followed celibacy all through his life. As part of this journey searching the soul of his nation, he reached Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin in Tamil Nadu). The place where he sat in meditation continuously for three days is now a popular tourist centre- Vivekananda Rock. He gathered the famous Vision of One India here. Its also called Kanyakumari resolve. According to this resolve, Swamiji realised that preaching religion to empty stomachs is useless and so uplifting of masses should precede spiritual awakening.

Maharaja of Khetri, Ajit Singh, an ardent devotee, crowned him with the title Swami Vivekananda in1892.

Swamiji made a historical speech in September 1893 at Chicago.He introduced Hinduism at the "Parliament of the world's religions". The Indian philosophies of yoga and Vedanta gradually became popular all over the world. Swamiji was India's spiritual ambassador and our patriotic saint.

As he traveled all over the world, he felt ashamed at the degenerating plight of our nation and called it as a lunatic asylum. India was then filled with people who believed in superstitions, followed caste system, apartheid, and were vain talkers. Social tyranny was hindering progress. So, Swamiji addressed Indians to come out of narrow holes and to look abroad...

To uplift masses and gradually instill spiritual awakening, he established Sree Ramakrishna Mission and Sree Ramakrishna Math. Swamiji's had an extremely inspiring way and vision for our nation. India celebrate his birth anniversaries as National Youth Day.


Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi on 4th July 1902 at the age of 39 at Belur Math in Calcutta.
(Image courtesy: Belur Math)

DOES HUMAN BODY CONTAIN WATER ?

Human body contains 55 to 79% water by body weight. The quantity of water is high in babies (79%) and it starts decreasing with age. An adult woman can have 55% water in accordance to her body weight. 

For example, the total quantity of water in an adult man of 70kilos is about 40 litres; ie., 57% of his body weight. Of this, 25 litres is inter cellular and 15 litres is extra cellular. By extracellular it refers to the water element in blood plasma, interstitial fluid and transcellular fluid.

cells are the smallest unit of our body building materials.cells contain 65 to 90% water.

lymph is 96% water.

lungs is  90% water

blood is 83% water.

lean muscles is 75% water.

brain is 70% water

bones are 22%water.

body fat is 10%water.

and so on....

Water is essential to keep our body clean, digest food, absorb nutrients, expel toxins and waste materials etc.

A SHORT QUESTIONNAIRE ON BALANCED DIET.

What is a balanced diet?

A balanced diet contains adequate calories of energy to keep us active and for growth. It will have a balance of major and minor nutrients derived from different types of food. It also includes an adequate quantity of water intake.

Do you know what nutrients are?

Vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, antioxidants, fibre etc are some of the nutrients. If our food contains all these nutrients in proper proportion, then it is called a balanced diet.

What are body building foods?

Proteins, minerals and water are the components considered useful for body building. These help in the growth of bones and muscles. They even help in the growth and repair of body tissues and internal organs like muscles, blood, skin, hormones and enzymes.

Is non-vegetarian food good?

Yes of course. They give us different types of protein. It has high fat content. So, if we eat more non vegetarian foods, we would become obese.(Obese means a disease where we have more weight than normal standards for our age and height.)

Some of the non vegetarian foods are the following.

•          Egg whites – purest form of protein; it is easily absorbed by the body; low fat content. (egg yolk contains lot of fat and cholesterol. SO eating 2 egg whites a day is a healthy habit)

•     Fish – Small fishes contain omega3fatty acids. The fats in fishes are healthy.

•     Lean meat – Chicken breast and lean are high protein.

What carrots give you?

Carrots give us lot of carotene which makes you orange in colour. It is a precursor for vitamin A.

What is the daily energy requirement of a child of ten years?

Girls – 1740 calories.

Boys – 2000 calories.

Name the following?

• Vitamin good for eyes – vitamin A
• Vitamin present in abundance in fruits – vitamin C
• Vitamin good for skin – vitamin E
• Mineral nutrient in milk – calcium
• Milk protein is called – casein

What is roughage?

We get lot of fiber from green leafy vegetables. This helps in proper digestion of food and smooth movement of stools. This is called roughage.

Name some source of protein for a vegetarian diet?

Mushrooms, Algae like spirulina, Pulses, legumes and nuts are good sources of protein for vegetarian diets. Eg: dhal, soyabeans, ground nuts, etc.

What is the role of water in a balanced diet?

• Water helps in proper digestion of food
• Water helps in absorption of nutrients from our food
• Water helps in elimination of toxins from our body and so on.
• Drinking enough water makes our internal organs healthy and gives us a glowing skin! 

                                                 QUESTION TIME!

1.  Which is the milk protein?

  ans :  Casein

     2.   Which of the following is a lean meat?
     a)   rabbit meat
     b)  quail meat
     c)   chicken breast
     d)   none of these
      e)  all of these

      3.    Name the pigment in carrots?
     
   ans :   Carotene   

CHILDREN'S WELLBEING AS PER CDI and SDI

http://in.finance.yahoo.com/photos/world-s-top-10-children-friendly-nations-slideshow/

This is the link to a slide show in Yahoo, that depicts the state of children in different countries. India ranks 112th among 141 countries evaluated for CHILD DEVELOPMENT INDEX. The indicators used were infant mortality, child education, health, nutrition etc.

http://in.finance.yahoo.com/photos/world-s-top-10-early-childhood-education-environments-slideshow/world-s-top-10-early-childhood-education-environments-photo-1341207385.html

This is a related link on preschool education in 45 countries. Termed START WELL INDEX; In this study, it appears that India enjoys the 45th position.

SIGNIFICANCE OF ARTS, SPORTS AND LITERARY ACTIVITIES IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

 Nowadays parents focus on getting their kids the best education available. But the scope of education seems to have shrunk to a level of academic performance alone. Attending classes, rote learning of what is taught and getting high scores is the general rather only aim for many.

 Is this enough?

Or should we let our kids play well?

Should we let them participate in group activities at school?

Should we train them on arts or sports?

Should we hone their writing skills? So on…

The world is definitely becoming more and more competitive day by day. So, should we totally avoid all other aspects ? 

Let’s peep into the importance of arts, sports and literary activities in elementary education.

Time spend on these activities enhance a child’s multiple intelligence and this reflects in the kid’s academics and behaviour too. Hence these are integral parts of quality education.

Every child is unique. What matters is that every child goes through a joyful and meaningful experience that instills self confidence and self worth. It is an identification of one’s path towards excellence.

Let us begin the discussion with a simple question. What is an art?

Art is the response of an individual to the call of the real, said Rabindranath Tagore.

Art is the special language of children, who even before they learn to speak, respond intuitively to dance, music and colour, said Dr.Boyer.

Art includes performing arts and visual arts or fine arts.  Performing arts are of the entertainment type. This includes dance, drama, dance-drama, music – both vocal and instrumental, puppetry, etc. Visual arts now use technology and give us animations, films, etc. It also covers drawing, colouring, painting, clay modeling, sculpture, pottery, jewellery design, weaving fabrics, and so on.

An exposure in arts during formative years also promotes cultural awareness in kids.

According to Prof.Antonio Domasio from U.S., art education can bring about better balance between cognitive and emotional development. This in turn contributes to a culture of peace.

Tagore reminiscing his childhood once said: “we wrote, we sang, we acted, we poured ourselves out on every side. There was tremendous excitement and cultural richness.” This base is what facilitated him to establish Shanthiniketan Viswa Vidyalaya…

Sports cover both indoor and outdoor games, that too both individual and team events.  Even moderate physical activity stimulates growth. It improves a child’s skill at arithmetic, memorization and reading. It enhances motor skills.

Children who play well have team spirit, stay fit and healthy and are mentally active. They are stress free, understand the importance of healthy living and the benefits of regular exercise extends in to adulthood also.

Dr.Glyn Roberts says that sports are an important learning environment for children. It affects a child’s development of self esteem and self worth. Within sports peer status and peer acceptance are also established.

By literary activities we mean reading, story telling, creative writing, spell bees, debate, quiz, recitation, essay writing, public speaking, news reading, making presentations, discussing stories and fiction, and many more. Literary activities facilitate better utilization of library facility. Kids are facilitated to read during their free time. They can choose from picture stories to short stories or novels, depending on their caliber.

“Reading makes a complete man” said Francis Bacon. Reading improves vocabulary, generates better interpersonal skills and so better communication and also gives problem solving skills. It thus fosters creativity. Strong reading habits enhance analytical thinking and better literacy. This helps pursue social activities, leading to a better community life.

All these activities have a strong emphasis on “learning by doing” and “practice makes perfect”. Active participation in such activities stimulates child’s imagination, and instills values into young minds. Hence music, dance and drama are treated as foundation subjects in International curricula.

In other words, education in general, and art and literary activities in particular, is a way for a child to grow into a balanced personality. It helps one to become sensitive to the beauty in nature, of social values and aesthetic aspects of life as a whole.

The primary goal of parents and teachers is to identify the best suitable art or sport for their children. Success in an activity makes them feel valued and wanted. Every child can be successful in one or another. Let us take the time to find what is right for our child.

“The purpose of education is to bring out the best in you” stated Mahatma Gandhi. For this, literary education must follow the education of the hand – a gift that distinguishes man from beast. Basic education as per Gandhian philosophy is an integration of arts, crafts, health and academics.

QUALITIES OF A WELL MANNERED CHILD

A well mannered person is one who has good manners and knows the correct way to behave in social situations. One who is polite and doesn't cause any trouble to others is usually called a well behaved child.Actually how can one be so???

Value Education series of Flamingo books, New Delhi enlists a child to possess the following qualities to be a good mannered fellow.

1. HONEST

2. TRUTHFUL

3. POLITE

4.PUNCTUAL

5. KIND

6.HELPFUL

7.OBEDIENT

8. RESPECTFUL

9.GENTLE

10.HUMBLE

Lets see how Lexicographers define these terms in the most simple way.

• An honest person always tells the truth, doesn't cheat or steal.

• A truthful person does not usually tell lies.

• Being polite is to behave in a way that is correct for the social situation you are in and showing that you are careful to consider other people's needs and feelings.

• To be punctual is to be on time, ie., to be present or complete a task exactly at the arranged time.

• A kind person refers to someone who tries to help people and make them happy or comfortable and shows that they care about them.

• Helpful points to providing useful help in making a situation better or easier. Such a person is always willing to help others.

• Obedient kids are those who always do what they are told to do without questioning the authority(parents or teachers). They also follow rules and laws.

• Respectful is a feeling or showing of admiration for someone for their personal qualities, knowledge,skill etc.

• Gentle nature refers to the careful way of doing things so that you do not hurt or damage anyone or anything.

• Humble  is simple, ordinary, useful and effective. Such a person doesn't consider their ideas or themselves as important as others. 

Is this an easy task? Lets try out by putting maximum effort to follow one by one...