Like vs Unlike

                    

LIKE VS UNLIKE

Everyone is born unique and special. We all have different things we like and don't like. Some of these choices come from within us. Others we learn from people around us. Let's explore what shapes our preferences.

Let me express each point in detail:

Personal Choices Matter: Our personal preferences are like fingerprints of our personality. When someone chooses to learn piano over guitar, read science fiction over romance, or prefer solitary activities over group events, these choices reveal deeper aspects of their character. For example, someone who consistently chooses creative hobbies might have a strong imaginative side, while someone who gravitates toward analytical activities might have a more logical thinking pattern. These preferences aren't just superficial - they form the building blocks of our identity and influence how we see and interact with the world around us.

Influenced by Others: Our environment plays a crucial role in shaping our likes and dislikes. Consider how food preferences often reflect our cultural background, or how our music taste might be influenced by what our friends listen to. This influence can be direct (like parents encouraging certain activities) or indirect (like social media shaping our fashion choices). Sometimes, we adopt preferences to feel part of a group - like a teenager getting interested in a particular sport because their friends play it. These influenced preferences aren't necessarily inauthentic; they're part of how we grow and connect with others.

Changes Over Time Our preferences are not set in stone - they evolve as we do. Someone who disliked vegetables as a child might become a vegetarian adult. A person who never enjoyed reading might discover a love for books later in life. These changes often come through exposure to new experiences, changing circumstances, or personal growth. Being open to such changes is crucial because it allows us to adapt and discover new aspects of ourselves. Think of how many people discovered new hobbies or interests during the pandemic, showing how circumstances can lead to unexpected preference changes.

Impact on Decisions Our likes and dislikes: act as an internal compass guiding our choices. On a daily basis, they influence small decisions like what clothes to wear or what show to watch. But their impact extends to major life decisions too. Career choices often stem from our interests - someone who loves helping others might become a nurse, while someone passionate about technology might pursue software development. Even relationship choices are influenced by our preferences, from the type of people we're attracted to, to the kind of lifestyle we want to share with a partner.

Respecting Differences Understanding and accepting different preferences is key to harmonious relationships and social interactions. When we recognize that someone's different preferences don't diminish their value as a person, we create space for more meaningful connections. This respect is crucial in various settings:

In families: Accepting that children might have different interests than their parents

At work: Acknowledging different working styles and preferences among colleagues

In relationships: Understanding that partners don't need to share all the same interests

In society: Appreciating how diverse preferences contribute to cultural richness

By respecting these differences, we create an environment where people feel comfortable expressing their true preferences without fear of judgment. This leads to more authentic relationships and a more inclusive society where diversity in tastes and choices is celebrated rather than criticized.

Ankit Khare

Sunbeam School Sarnath

smile 😊 Vs Frown ☹️

# The Art of Expression

How Smiles and Frowns Shape Our World

Our facial expressions, particularly smiles and frowns, serve as powerful tools in the complex language of human interaction. These simple gestures carry profound implications for our relationships, well-being, and daily experiences.

A smile transcends cultural boundaries as a universal symbol of warmth and connection. When we smile, our bodies release endorphins and serotonin, creating a natural mood boost that affects both ourselves and others. In professional settings, a genuine smile can facilitate collaboration, build trust, and create an atmosphere conducive to productivity. Research has shown that smiling can even improve physical health by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and strengthening immune function.

Conversely, a frown often signals distress or disapproval, creating invisible barriers in social interactions. While it's a natural response to negative situations, prolonged frowning can have unintended consequences. It may strain relationships, spread negativity in group settings, and even contribute to physical discomfort through muscle tension and increased stress hormones.

The choice between smiling and frowning significantly impacts our personal and professional lives. In relationships, a smile can heal rifts and strengthen bonds, while in workplace environments, it projects confidence and approachability. However, the goal isn't to eliminate frowns entirely – they serve a valid purpose in expressing genuine emotions. Instead, it's about finding balance and recognizing when a smile might be the more beneficial choice.

By understanding these dynamics, we can harness the power of our expressions more effectively. While a smile may not solve every problem, it creates a positive ripple effect that can transform challenging moments into opportunities for growth and connection.

Remember: Your expression is your personal lighthouse – choose to shine brightly…

Ankit khare

Sunbeam School Sarnath

HeArT vs MiNd

HEART VS MIND

       

# Navigating the Emotional Labyrinth: A Modern Guide to Adolescent Parenting

Modern parenting requires a shift from authoritative leadership to thoughtful facilitation. While parents naturally draw from their personal experiences, offering well-intentioned advice based on past situations, this approach needs careful consideration in our rapidly evolving society. What worked for one generation may not adequately address the challenges faced by the next, as social structures, technology, and cultural norms continue to transform.

However, amid these changes, emotions remain a constant thread connecting generations, though their expression varies across different life stages. Adolescence, in particular, emerges as a critical period characterized by intense emotional experiences. During this phase, young people navigate complex territories: peer competition intensifies, romantic feelings emerge, and questions of personal identity become paramount through exploration of appearance and style.

The digital age has amplified these challenges, with social media creating new dimensions of peer pressure and emotional complexity. Simple friendships can evolve into deeper emotional attachments through constant digital connection, while the desire for validation and acceptance takes on new forms.

In this landscape, parents and educators must adapt their approach. When confronted with teenage mistakes or unexpected behavior, responding with patience and empathy becomes crucial. Rather than immediate judgment or quick solutions, creating space for understanding and dialogue proves more effective.

The key lies in helping adolescents maintain their sense of self while navigating emotional turbulence. 

Parents can achieve this by:

- Maintaining open communication without judgment

- Validating feelings while helping maintain perspective

- Supporting identity exploration while reinforcing core values

- Teaching emotional regulation while allowing for authentic expression

Success in modern parenting comes from finding the balance between providing support and allowing independence. By understanding emotion as a bridge between generations while acknowledging its evolving expression, parents can better guide their children through the complexities of contemporary adolescence.

Ankit Khare

Sunbeam School Sarnath

Right Vs Worng

"Nurturing Trust, Building Futures: Every Teen's Journey Matters"

The adolescent years represent one of the most complex and crucial phases of human development. During this period, young minds are like intricate puzzles being assembled - their physical growth, emotional development, and cognitive abilities are all evolving simultaneously, yet not always in perfect synchronization. This developmental disparity often creates a communication gap that can be challenging for both adults and teenagers to bridge.

The teenage brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making and impulse control, continues to develop well into the early twenties. Their actions often stem from experimentation and immediate gratification rather than careful consideration of future implications. This natural tendency toward experimentation, while essential for personal growth, can sometimes lead them into challenging or potentially dangerous situations.

Parents and educators must recognize that these behavioural patterns aren't simply acts of rebellion but are intrinsically linked to developmental processes. Just as a gardener understands that each plant has its growing season and unique needs, adults in supervisory roles must appreciate that teenage behaviour, however perplexing, is part of a natural developmental journey. This understanding should inform our responses to their actions and guide our intervention strategies.

The role of observation becomes paramount during these formative years. Parents who notice subtle changes in their child's behaviour - perhaps a sudden shift in sleeping patterns, unexpected mood swings, or variations in social interactions - should view these as important signals rather than immediate causes for alarm. Similarly, teachers, who spend significant time with students, are uniquely positioned to notice behavioural changes that might escape parents' attention. These could include alterations in academic performance, classroom participation, or peer relationships.

However, mere observation isn't enough. The key lies in building and maintaining trust. When adolescents feel they have reliable adult figures who understand and accept them without immediate judgment, they're more likely to open up about their challenges and seek guidance when needed. This trust-building process requires patience, consistency, and genuine interest in their lives.

The concept of rebellion during adolescence isn't simply a manifestation of defiance. Often, it's an expression of their developing identity and autonomy. When combined with peer pressure - a powerful force during these years - it can lead young people to make choices that conflict with their better judgment. This is where the strength of established trust becomes crucial. A teenager who trusts their parents or teachers is more likely to seek their counsel when facing difficult decisions or after making mistakes.

Creating this environment of trust requires a delicate balance. Adults must show they're available and supportive while respecting teenagers' growing need for independence. This might mean:

Maintaining open lines of communication without being intrusive

Showing genuine interest in their activities and opinions

Offering guidance without being controlling

Acknowledging their growing maturity while still providing necessary boundaries

Responding to mistakes with understanding rather than harsh judgment

Prevention is always better than intervention, but when intervention becomes necessary, it should be handled with sensitivity and understanding. If a student begins showing signs of moving in a concerning direction, the approach should be one of support rather than criticism. This might involve:

Having private, non-confrontational conversations

Showing empathy while expressing concern

Working together to identify underlying issues

Developing collaborative solutions that respect their autonomy

Maintaining confidentiality unless safety requires otherwise

It's essential to remember that the goal isn't to control teenagers but to guide them toward making better decisions independently. This guidance should help them develop critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence that will serve them throughout their lives.

The success of any intervention largely depends on the foundation of trust built during calmer times. When students know they have adults in their lives who genuinely care about their wellbeing and respect their growing independence, they're more likely to accept guidance during difficult periods.

"In the delicate dance of adolescent development, our role isn't to lead or follow, but to walk beside them - close enough to support when needed, yet far enough to let them find their own path to maturity."

Ankit Khare

Sunbeam School Sarnath

प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना करना - Arthur Foot Academy

Customised PLP Solutions for Schools 

PLP Monthly Sessions are conducted at the Arthur Foot Academy, and we hold weekly book readings with JDS School in Abohar.

Is Your Child Ready To Face The World, a bestselling book by Dr Anupam Sibal, a Learning Forward India Foundation board member. The Arthur Foot Academy customised Professional Learning Program is construted around book reading; the reachers meet every month to read a chapter and share their reflections.

In honour of Arthur Edward Foot's ideals, a dedicated group of Old Boys of The Doon School with Asad Khan leading have joined forces to create a lasting legacy for their first Headmaster, the Arthur Foot Academy. The academy is committed to providing a well-rounded education to the children of Bandarjhud, a small village near Dehradun. 

The Arthur Foot Academy, as a member of the Good Schools Alliance, is dedicated to fostering the personal and social development of each student. The academy emphasizes service, skill development, athletics, and academic study as core components of its educational approach. The mission of the school is to equip students with the confidence to navigate the world successfully. In January 2025, the academy hosted a Professional Learning Program (PLP) session, during which teachers demonstrated their enthusiasm for learning and shared insights into the joy of educational experiences.

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प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना करना इस पाठ के माध्यम से हमें यह शिक्षा मिलती है कि हमें जीवन में कभी बहाने और किस्मत को दोष नहीं देना चाहिए। अगर हम ऐसा करते हैं तो यह हमारे जीवन की हार होती है। अगर मेरे पास पैसे होते तो मैं अपने लक्ष्य को प्राप्त कर लेती। मेरे पास अगर बहुत ज्यादा पैसे हो तो मैं अपने जीवन में सफल हो जाती ज्यादा पैसा होने से मनुष्य की इच्छा कभी पूरी नहीं हो सकती इच्छा हमेशा बढ़ती ही जाती है जिससे जिससे हम खुश नहीं हो पाए क्योंकि इच्छा असीमित होती है जो कभी पूरी नहीं होती। जैसे हमारी लाइफ में प्रॉब्लम है तो हमें कभी हार नहीं माननी चाहिए हमें उनका सामना करना चाहिए और हमारे जीवन का एकमात्र यही लक्ष्य होना चाहिए। जब माता-पिता बच्चों के सामने बहाने बनाते हैं और बच्चे उन्हें ऐसा करते देखे हैं तभी वह भी बहाने बनाने सीख जाते हैं और अपने कम से पीछे हट जाते हैं। और सिमी जिसने 2003 में एक क्लीनिक में एक मैनेजर के रूप काम करना शुरू किया जिसकी हंसी बहुत ही प्यारी थी और उसका व्यवहार सबको बहुत अच्छा लगता था। सिमी बहुत बीमार हुई उसने अपनी लाइफ में बहुत ही ज्यादा संघर्ष किया और परेशानियों का सामना किया उसकी बहुत सर्जरी हुई लेकिन उसने कभी किसी को यह महसूस नहीं होने दिया कि वह इतनी ज्यादा परेशानियों से गुजर रही है। और ना ही वह किसी की दया की पात्र बनना चाहती थी। ऐसे बहुत से उदाहरण है हमें भी अपने जीवन शैली में कभी घबराना नहीं चाहिए। उसका डटकर मुकाबला करना चाहिए। दूसरों से अच्छी बातें सीखनी चाहिए। और जीवन में सकारात्मक ऊर्जा लाने चाहिए तभी हम अपने लक्ष्य की प्रति कर सकेंगे क्योंकि बहाने बनाने से कुछ नहीं होता है इससे हम वैदिक को देते हैं जो हमें पाना था । 

रीना 

पाठ में मैंने पढ़ा कि एक लड़की सिमी जो संधि शोध की बीमारी से पीड़ित होती हैं| तथा किस प्रकार उसने अपनी बिमारी को बहाना नहीं बनाया और इसी प्रकार संगीतकार बीथोवेन और स्टीवन स्पीलबर्ग, रूजवेल्ट, बॉबी के उदाहरण दिए गए है | इन सभी लोगों को देखकर हमको यही शिक्षा मिलती हैं। कि अगर हमको ईश्वर ने हाथ, पांव व देखने के लिए आँखें दी है। और हमारा शरीर बिल्कुल ठिक है। तो हम भी वह कर सकते हैं। जो हम चाहते है। लेकिन वह तभी संभव है। जब हम मेहनत करेंगे और हमारे पास कोई बहाना बनाने का समय न हो। जैसे कि पाठ में आया एक वाक्य "मैं सपने रात में नहीं दिन में देखता हूँ।" सपने दिन में देखने का मतलब हैं, की खुली आंखों से सपने देखना तथा ऐसे सपने जो आपको नींद ही न आने दे। इस प्रकार पाठ में मैंने यही सीखा की अगर हमें अपनी मंज़िल तक पहुंचना हैं। तो हमें हर परेशानी को स्वीकार करना होगा,और आगे बढ़ना होगा। क्योंकि कहते हैं की बिना संघर्ष किए कुछ प्राप्त नहीं होता।प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना करना वैसे तो सभी अपनी जिंदगी में किसी न किसी तरह से हर मुश्किल परिस्थितियों का सामना करते है और जिन्हे नहीं कुछ नहीं करना होता है तो बहुत से बहाने बनाकर अपने मन को शांत करने कि कोई करते है  जो इंसान प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना हिम्मत और लगन से कर सकते है तो उनकी जीत निश्चित है जैसे इस पाठ में मुझे स्ट्रटजमैन की कहानीअच्छी लगी जो बिना हाथों के भी सबसे लंबे सही निशाने के लिए गिनीज विश्व रिकॉर्ड बनाया क्योंकि देखा जाय तो बिना हाथों के इंसान कुछ भी नहीं है लेकिन उनकी कहानी पढ़कर ऐसा लगता है कि अगर इंसान चाहे तो कुछ भी मुश्किल नहीं है जब वे बिना हाथों के अपने सारे कार्य कर दिया है तो जैसे उन्होंने 2012 में लंदन के पैरालिंपि गेमज मैं उन्होंने तीरंदाजी में रजत पदक जीता अगर बिना हाथों के भी वे विश्व रिकॉर्ड बना सकते है तो दुनिया में परिश्रम करने वाले कभी हार नही सकते इसलिए हमें प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों को देखकर कभी घबराना नहीं चाहिए बल्कि उसका सामना करना चाहिए फिर जीत निश्चित है

ललिता पाल

हमे अपने जीवन में हर प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना करना चाहिए।अपना लक्ष्य पाने के लिए हमें कठिन परिश्रम करने की आवश्यकता होती है।हमें खुद को कमजोर ना समझकर हर परिस्थिति का सामना करना चाहिए।सफल होने का आत्मविश्वास हमारे अन्दर चाहिए।जैसे पाठ प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों का सामना करना। में हमनें पढ़ा हैं कि कैसे जीन डोमिनिक बॉबी जी का उदाहरण दिया गया है। की कैसे वह तैतालिस साल की उम्र में एक भयानक रूप से लकवा मार गया। और वह कोमा में चले गए। इन परिस्थितियों के बावजूद भी उन्होंने हिम्मत नहीं हारी और कभी भी अपनी किस्मत को दोष नहीं दिया। बल्कि हर परिस्थिति का सामना करते हुए। प्रसिद्ध पुस्तक थे डाइविंग बेल एंड द बटरफ्लाई नामक किताब लिखी। हमें इनसे प्रेरणा मिलती है कि हमें जीवन में हर परिस्थिति का काम करने का आत्मविश्वास हमारे अंदर होना चाहिए। अपने जीवन में किसी भी परिस्थिति को लेकर हार नहीं माननी चाहिए। बल्कि उसका सामना करना चाहिए।

स्वाति

हमें जिंदगी में मुश्किलों का सामना करना चाहिए ना कि उनसे हमें भागना चाहिए जैसे सिम्मी किशोर अवस्था मेथी जब उन्हें संधि शोथ की बीमारी हुई तो उनके जोड़ों में दर्द और जोड़ों में सूजन आती थी उन्होंने जोड़ों के सूजन के की दवाई ले रही थी तो उनकी हालत सही होने के बावजूद बिगड़ ने लगी 21 वर्ष की सिम्मी को घुटनों में इतना दर्द रहने लगा कि उनको प्रत्यारोपण करवाने की नौबत आ गई थी पर सीमी किशोर ने  कभी एहसास नहीं होने दिया कि उनको कोई परेशानी है वह सामने वालों को  खुश रखना ही उनकी आदत थी उन्होंने कभी बहाने नहीं बना कि मुझे यह दिक्कत या परेशानी है ऐसे ही हमें भी अगर बहानो। का ख्याल आए तो हमें सिम्मी की बहादुरी देखनी चाहिए उन्होंने कभी हार नहीं मानी ऐसे ही हमें मुश्किलों का सामना करना चाहिए ।

साक्षी खन्ना

समय और परिस्थितियाँ के प्रतिकुल होने पर हमें जीवन में, कब या किन परिस्थितियों में हमें बिना लड़े, हालत से समझौता कर लेना चाहिए या स्थिति को चुपचाप स्वीकार करना चाहिए? मैं शायद उन लोगों में से नही हूँ जो परिस्थितियों से लगातार लड़ते रहते है और न ही उन लोगों में से हूँ जो परिस्थितियों के सामने झुक जाते है ,उन्हें स्वीकार कर लेते है।

मेरा मानना है कि आपको हर परिस्थिति को पहले समझना होंगा ।उसके सही और गलत परिणामों पर विचार करना होंगा ।फिर आपको कब लड़ना है और कब झुकना है ये स्वयं ही समझ आ जायेगा। कभी कभी जीवन में भी लड़ना जरूरी   होता है और कभी कभी झुकना ।मैं यहां लड़ना नही बोलुंगा  बल्कि कोशिश करना बोलुंगा उस परिस्थिति में खुद को संभालने की।

जीवन ऐसा जिये कि कभी अपने किसी काम के लिए पछतावा न हो कि अगर ये कर लिया होता या फिर ये नही किया होता। परिस्थितियाँ सर्वशक्तिमान होती है लेकिन फिर भी वक़्त के साथ इनको भी बदलना पड़ता है । समय का हाथ पकड़ लो तो आप हर मुश्किल को आसान बना लेंगें।

मैं जब भी कभी किसी बदलाव को आते देखता हूँ तो पहले अपनी तरफ से हर सम्भव कोशिश कर्ता हूँ कि उस बदलाव के सभी पक्षों को स्पष्ट रूप से देख सकूँ और जहां तक बोलने या कुछ करने की जरूरत होती है तो कर्ता  हूँ और जब लगता है अपने हाथ में नही है ये स्थिति ,तो उसे ईश्वर पर इस विश्वास के साथ छोड़कर कि वो जरूर अच्छा ही करेंगे ,स्वयं को साक्षी के रूप में देखने की कोशिश करने मुझे लगता  हूँ।

अभी तक का अनुभव अच्छा ही रहा है । परिस्थितियाँ कितनी भी कठिन बनी हो पर परिणाम हमेशा मेरे पक्ष में ही आये है।

देवानंद

पाठ  प्रतिकूल परिस्थितियों  का सामना करने से हमे यह शिक्षा मिलती है। यदि हमे अपने जीवन मे सफल होना है। हमने अपने जीवन मे जो लक्ष्य देखा है। उसे प्राप्त करने के लिए हमें निरंतर प्रयास करना चाहिए। और हमें बहाने नहीं बनाने चाहिए की मेरे भाग्य ने साथ नहीं दिया और मैं अपना लक्ष्य प्राप्त नहीं कर पाया।               

सपने वे नहीं होते जो हम नींद में देखते हैं। बल्कि सपने वे होते हैं जो हमें सोने नहीं देते। वास्तविक जीवन में ऐसे बहुत से व्यक्तियों से इतिहास भरा पड़ा है जिन्होंने अजय लगने वाली विपरीत परिस्थितियों को जीत कर दिखाया है। सिमी सिंह जो एक क्लीनिक में मैनेजर थी लेकिन अधिक बीमार हो जाने के कारण तथा अपने पैरों पर खड़ा ना होने के कारण उन्होंने धैर्य नहीं  खोया कठिन परिस्थितियों में भी वे मुस्कराती रही। और वह अपने लिए खुद ही खड़े होना चाहती थी। वह अपने जीवन मे किसी के उपकार का हिस्सा नहीं बनना नहीं चाहती थी। वे आत्मनिर्भर बनना चाहती थी। जिस कारण संसार उन्हें एक सकारात्मक सोच के नजरिए से उन्हें देख सके। तथा दूसरे व्यक्ति भी उनसे प्रोत्साहित हो सके। तथा अपने जीवन मे  अपने लक्ष्य को प्राप्त कर सके। 

नीरज कुमार    

पाठ में मैंने पढ़ा कि एक लड़की सिमी जो संधि शोध की बीमारी से पीड़ित होती हैं| तथा किस प्रकार उसने अपनी बिमारी को बहाना नहीं बनाया और इसी प्रकार संगीतकार बीथोवेन और स्टीवन स्पीलबर्ग, रूजवेल्ट, बॉबी के उदाहरण दिए गए है | इन सभी लोगों को देखकर हमको यही शिक्षा मिलती हैं। कि अगर हमको ईश्वर ने हाथ, पांव व देखने के लिए आँखें दी है। और हमारा शरीर बिल्कुल ठिक है। तो हम भी वह कर सकते हैं। जो हम चाहते है। लेकिन वह तभी संभव है। जब हम मेहनत करेंगे और हमारे पास कोई बहाना बनाने का समय न हो।

 जैसे कि पाठ में आया एक वाक्य "मैं सपने रात में नहीं दिन में देखता हूँ।" सपने दिन में देखने का मतलब हैं, की खुली आंखों से सपने देखना तथा ऐसे सपने जो आपको नींद ही न आने दे। इस प्रकार पाठ में मैंने यही सीखा की अगर हमें अपनी मंज़िल तक पहुंचना हैं। तो हमें हर परेशानी को स्वीकार करना होगा,और आगे बढ़ना होगा। क्योंकि कहते हैं की बिना संघर्ष किए कुछ प्राप्त नहीं होता। 

साक्षी पाल 

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?

Reflections: Masterclass Saturday 18th January 2025

Chapter 11: A School Called Home: A Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala 

Q1. The mother in the chapter plays a vital role in shaping the child's learning experience by reading stories and ensuring a nurturing environment. How can schools engage parents more actively in their child’s learning journey? How can teachers collaborate with families to extend learning beyond the classroom?

Q2. Like the one in the chapter, a child learns to read, write, and do arithmetic in a home-based setting for a few hours daily. The routine includes storytelling, exploration, and breaks for creativity. There is a strong emphasis on balancing academics with free play. As a teacher, what strategies (e.g., differentiated learning, project-based learning) can you adopt in your classroom to replicate the flexibility and individual focus of a homeschooling environment?

Q3. Drawing from the idea of a "home-like" atmosphere, what elements (e.g., comfort, emotional security, a sense of belonging) can you bring into your teaching space to support your students' growth and well-being?

Q4. What are the key advantages and challenges of homeschooling compared to traditional schooling, especially regarding academic growth, social skills, and emotional well-being? How can traditional schools incorporate elements of homeschooling to address these areas?"

Gurdeep Kaur
The Teacher's Academy
GK@LearningForward.org.in

Reflections from the 2024 Masterclass - Ankit Verma

What makes a school?
A school is more than just a building with classrooms; it's a place where dreams are nurtured, and personalities are shaped. In the context of the book Wanted Back Bencher and Last Ranker Teacher, a school is defined by its diverse students, each with unique strengths and challenges. The story highlights how a supportive teacher can turn the so-called "Back-Bencher" into a star, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and understanding in education. A genuine school is a space for growth, where students and teachers learn from each other, overcoming obstacles and celebrating achievements together.

War vs Peace 
A school is more than just a place for academic lessons; values are instilled, friendships are formed, and future leaders are shaped. In the context of the book Wanted Back Bencher and Last Ranker Teacher, a school is portrayed as a space where every student, regardless of rank or behaviour, has the potential to thrive. The story focuses on the transformative journey of a "Back-Bencher," often overlooked in a classroom, and how an understanding and patient teacher can spark a change. The teacher, who is willing to go beyond textbooks, believes in the unique capabilities of each student, fostering a sense of worth and belonging. This relationship is at the heart of what makes a school truly special. A school is not just about grades; it's about creating an environment where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.

Love Learning Vs Hate Learning 
Love and hatred towards learning can shape a student's school experience. When students love learning, they are excited to explore new subjects, ask questions, and engage in discussions. This enthusiasm fuels curiosity and helps them succeed academically. In contrast, when learning is hated, it feels like a chore. Negative experiences, like boring lessons or lack of encouragement, can lead to disengagement and low motivation. In a classroom, a teacher plays a vital role in nurturing the love for learning by making lessons interactive, relatable, and fun. Students who feel supported and inspired will likely embrace challenges and enjoy their educational journey. A school environment that fosters a love for learning helps students excel academically and equips them with the skills to continue learning beyond the classroom. A positive mindset makes all the difference in the world of education.

Affection vs Rejection 
Affection versus rejection plays a crucial role in shaping a student's experience in the classroom, as highlighted in the book Wanted Back Bencher and Last Ranker Teacher. Affection in a classroom environment creates a sense of belonging and motivation. Even struggling students feel valued and empowered to improve when teachers show care and encouragement. On the other hand, rejection—whether through neglect, harsh criticism, or indifference—can profoundly affect a student's self-esteem and willingness to participate. The story of the "Back-Bencher" and the "Last-Ranker" emphasizes how affection from a dedicated teacher can transform these students, helping them rise above their challenges. In a school, fostering an atmosphere of support and empathy is essential, as it encourages students to open up, engage, and develop their potential. Affection nurtures growth, while rejection stifles it, making a difference in a student's journey.

Ankit Verma 
Sunbeam School Varuna

Masterclass 2024 Cohort

Smile Vs. Frown - Sunbeam School Varuna

This educational video explores the emotional impact of a smile versus a frown, highlighting their significance in building positive relationships between teachers and students. Through engaging visuals and simple explanations, the video demonstrates how smiling fosters a welcoming, supportive environment while frowning may create distance or misunderstandings. This project, designed for both teachers and students, aims to promote emotional awareness and encourage positive interactions in the classroom. Sunbeam School Varuna Production Ankit Verma, Ranjana Singh, Alok Kumar Singh, Abhishek Pratap Singh and Aakash Aggrawal

And the Sky is Grey: A Journey Through the 10 Cs

Reflection

Webinar 1 of 51 #2025

Chapter 9:Ten on Ten from Shomie Das: A Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala 

One bright day, I was substituting for a junior class and enjoying the playful chatter of curious minds. To spark a conversation, I asked them a simple question:

“What is the colour of the sky?”

Without hesitation, the students replied, “The sky is blue.”

But one student, sitting quietly at the corner of the classroom and looking outside the window, said, “Ma’am, the sky is grey. Look outside, it’s grey, not blue.”

His answer surprised me. Most children would confidently say “blue,” but this child saw the world differently. Intrigued, I asked, “Why do you think the sky is grey?”

His curiosity sparked the moment when our journey through the Ten Cs began. His willingness to question his observations is a powerful reminder of how curiosity drives learning.

I explained, “The sky is grey because of dust and pollution.”

At that moment, the child was learning science, processing observations, and critically analysing the world around him. Critical thinking was in action.

Our conversation was a two-way exchange, during which we listened and understood each other. Communication is more than just speaking—it’s about listening with empathy and responding thoughtfully.

His honest response showed real courage. Despite knowing most people say the sky is blue, he wasn’t afraid to share what he saw. Encouraging such honesty and bravery helps create a safe learning environment.

I used an analogy to make the idea more relatable: “Think of the sky as a mirror reflecting sunlight, but dust and pollution change its appearance.” Creativity helps simplify complex ideas and makes learning more memorable.

That student chose to share his observation, and I decided to explore it further with him. This is the power of choice in learning—when students feel empowered, they take ownership of their curiosity.

The exchange was also a collaborative effort. He asked. I explained, and together we discovered something new. 

While there wasn’t direct competition in this story, there was an inherent drive to learn and grow, which reflects healthy competition in its true sense.

During our discussion, I tied the grey sky to the topic of pollution—an opportunity to talk about responsible citizenship and how our actions impact the environment.

His perspective was respected throughout the conversation, and no one laughed at his observation. Instead, he was guided with care and compassion, fostering a supportive and trusting learning environment.

A Journey of Learning

So, what is the colour of the sky? A child's simple observation of a grey sky became a powerful lesson in the Ten Cs. The sky may have been grey that day, but the lessons we learnt were bright and clear.

Gurdeep Kaur

The Teacher’s Academy

GK@LearningForward.org.in

Reflections: Masterclass Saturday 11th January 2025

Webinar 1 of 51 #2025

Chapter 9:Ten on Ten from Shomie Das: A Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala 

Curiosity

1. How do you inspire curiosity in your students? Share an example of a lesson or activity encouraging them to ask more questions and explore independently.
2. Some students struggle to ask questions, while others are overly dependent on your guidance. How would you create a classroom environment that nurtures curiosity in all learners?

Creativity

3. How do you integrate creativity into your teaching methods to make learning engaging and impactful?

Critical Thinking

4. What strategies do you use to help students develop critical thinking skills? Share an example of how you assess their growth in this area.
5. A group discussion in your classroom evolves into a debate about a current social issue. How would you guide students to analyse the diverse perspectives while respecting others' opinions critically?

Choice

6. Your students feel overwhelmed by multiple projects and assignments. How would you teach them to make informed choices about managing their time and resources effectively?

Communication

7. Reflect on how you foster effective communication in your classroom. What role does active listening play in your interactions with students?
8. Some students hesitate to participate in discussions or group work due to language barriers or shyness. What strategies can you use to ensure inclusive communication? How do you model clear and empathetic communication in your teaching?

Candor and Courage

9. How do you encourage students to be honest and brave in sharing their thoughts and taking risks in their learning journey?

Collaboration

10. You are planning a cross-disciplinary project with teachers from other subjects, but there are disagreements about goals and responsibilities. How would you collaborate effectively to align goals and divide responsibilities?
11. How do you teach students the value of teamwork and the skills required for successful collaboration?

Competition

12. How do you promote healthy competition to motivate students without fostering stress or negative feelings?
13. A class competition creates tension among students. How can you redesign the competition to focus on personal growth and team spirit rather than just winning?

 Citizenship

14. What practices do you implement to instil a sense of responsible citizenship and community service in your students?
15. Your school is organising a community outreach program. How would you teach students the value of active citizenship through this initiative? How can you connect citizenship lessons to everyday classroom activities?

Compassion

16. A student in your class struggles with personal issues that affect their performance and behaviours. How would you show compassion while maintaining classroom discipline? How can you embed lessons of empathy and compassion into your curriculum to help students develop these traits?

Please email your Reflections to Gurdeep Kaur at GK@LearningForward.org.in. For assistance, you may contact her on WhatsApp (only for teachers who have registered for the masterclass and are on a paid plan through the school or self).

Copy vs Not to Copy: A Moral Lesson

In a thought-provoking and engaging scene enacted by three teachers, students are taught the importance of integrity and the consequences of dishonesty during examinations. The short play "The Choice is Yours" explores the dilemma of copying versus honest effort and leaves a lasting impact on everyone who watches it.

The scene is set in a classroom during an examination. Teacher 1, known for strict but fair demeanour, reminded the students about the importance of honesty, urging them to rely on their preparation and trust in their abilities. Shortly the teacher stepped out, leaving the students under the supervision of Teacher 2, a lighthearted and mischievous character. Teacher 2, pretending to represent the tempting voice of shortcuts, humorously encouraged the idea of peeking at a friend’s answers, suggesting it was a harmless and quick solution.

However, Teacher 3, the calm observer, questioned this mindset, and pointed out the deeper implications of such actions, asking whether copying truly helped in the long run or merely set students up for failure when no one was there to assist them.

The turning point came when Teacher 1 returned and caught a student (imagined) red-handed in the act of copying. They sternly explained the consequences, underscoring that dishonesty leads to failure and regret. Teacher 2, acting as the enabler, tried to defend the action, suggesting that it was common and insignificant. Teacher 3, in a composed manner, delivered the moral of the story, stating that true growth comes from hard work and honest effort, not shortcuts.

The scene concluded with a powerful message from all three teachers. They highlighted the importance of choosing integrity over dishonesty, even when it feels challenging. The enactment ended with a meaningful quote:

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” – C.S. Lewis

The impactful performance a reminder to the students that while the path of honesty may be difficult, it is the only one that leads to true success and self-respect. It encouraged everyone to embrace integrity as a core value in their academic journey and beyond.

Reeta Tiwari, Sneha Singh and Sanyogita Dubey 
Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur, Varanasi

From Classrooms to Bookshelves: Creating a Reading Journey for Children

Books play a pivotal role in a child's growth and development by creating a rich environment for learning and imagination. Surrounding children with books nurtures their curiosity, enhances their language skills, and strengthens their cognitive abilities. Sandeep Dutt takes us through how books encourage creativity, broaden worldviews, and provide valuable life lessons, fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Do School Libraries still attract Children?

Yes, provided they have librarians who understand what books are, and can guide children towards the right content. It is the librarian who pulls children inside a library more than the books themselves. Also, educators should inculcate the habit of reading as well; even if they don’t, educators should be found around the school campus with a book or a reading material other than the ones prescribed in the syllabus. This act will pique the curiosity of children, and who knows, the title may get picked up as well.

Teachers and principals should inculcate the habit of reading in children by reading books themselves.

Influence of Parents

Before a child is born, the mother has to have books around the house to warm the hearth. If parents ensure that the first few things that their children visually absorb are the presence of books around them, that’s when a habit of reading can be inculcated.

Sadly, an average Indian home doesn’t have books; the ones present are only in the school bag. People debate about reading a paperback/hardcover or reading on screen, but when there is no culture at all of holding a book, be it digital or otherwise, of what use are the arguments?

Reading Trajectory

Between primary and middle years, some children change schools. Options vary from boarding to international schools so that a child can get into a more progressive environment to reach the prescribed milestones and ace his/her entrance exams for future courses. One interesting thing is that children who read about diverse subjects have an upper hand in acing such exams due to better comprehension and an extensive vocabulary.

Consuming Content Today

There’s so much access to a variety of data, and given that a lot of it is stored in cloud, the neocortex doesn’t have the extra effort of keeping a tab on everything. There has been research on creating a human brain with human skills laced with technology. One can only imagine that the futuristic scenario would be pouring a book straight into the neocortex of the brain.

Yet with so much advent in technology and access to reading materials, we are not reading. Why?

It might have to do with the evolution of the human brain, and an altered attention span, adapting us to sensorial data, which makes data consumption faster than before. This also means that data absorption and thinking has also become faster than before. So today, even if we are looking at a hundred different elements on social media, every reel, video or picture would have left an impact on our brains, helping us recall some bit of it eventually. 

We may find it funny today but during our times, we were not used to seeing people glued to screens all day. But for today’s generation, visual stimuli may be the way of absorbing information. Categorising anything as relevant or irrelevant information today seems unfair as what we may consider as inapt would also have a lot of thought gone behind its making. So absorption of information may happen through several mediums, be it sound, visual, print or digital. The amount of stimuli we are subjected to as of today has increased. Ultimately, the choice rests with us and how we exercise it. 

Are Reading and Learning Always Correlated?

Visual stimulus is what a child is first subjected to after birth, and that’s where learning starts from. Reading comes much later. The first four years is when a child is most adaptive and recipient to what he/she sees around him/her. Once introduced to words, the cranial capacity will be limited to absorbing information in a pre-set pattern. We introduce children to what we want to see, adding our perception as well to it. Hence, when we see people not reading, it irks us; why?

What we need to understand is that learning can happen without reading as well. For instance, the tribal folk have barely read a word but their behavioural learning is massive compared to many of us with degrees and diplomas. We spoke earlier about how a parent can influence a child’s reading habit, but what if both or either parent is visually challenged or not educated at all? Books are one way of learning along with other mediums that add to the learning curve. 

Yet…

Nothing has changed in 100 years. ‘People should read’ has been a mantra that we have chanted for over a century, yet we fail to realise that our hyper state of mind can achieve stillness through reading. It is a form of meditation that leads from script to imagination, and when you put a script in your mind, you connect, communicate, collaborate and create.

Access

A dearth of books and bookstores during the pre-independence era stymied the progress of bibliophiles in the country. Cut to post-independence, books were expensive, inaccessible and it took a few years for people to access pocket-friendly reading materials. Today, we have home grown authors with a robust ecosystem of publishing and reprinting stories.

But, there exists a part of India where neither teacher nor student has experienced a bus ride, leave alone an access to a library or a bookshop. How do we do any justice to their situation?

The Art of Reading

The art of reading converts the art of thinking to the art of reflection, and that in turn gets made into a blog, a video log, a podcast, or a reel. Reading does two clearly good things; it slows you down to a melody or a pace and secondly, it helps you look and use your gaze in a pinpointed manner. Reading helps you achieve a great depth of focus.

Personal Reading Journey and Recommendation

Sandeep Dutt was born into a family of bibliophiles. His grandfather owned a bookstore that was handed over to his father and mother. A post-graduate in Sanskrit, his mother monitored reading activities of the children, be it pedagogical or otherwise. She would read to them from the Ramayana and the Bhagavad Gita, and brought about a healthy habit of reading, says Sandeep.

Sandeep Dutt Recommends these three books for the bibliophile in us.

 1.   Last Lecture by Randy Pausch with Jeffrey Zaslow

When Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, was asked to give 'a last lecture', he didn't have to imagine it as his last, since he had recently been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. But the lecture he gave, 'Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams', wasn't about dying. It was about the importance of overcoming obstacles, of enabling the dreams of others, of seizing every moment because 'time is all you have and you may find one day that you have less than you think'. It was a summation of everything Randy had come to believe. It was about living.

Randy's lecture about the joy of life – his legacy to his three young children – has become a worldwide phenomenon, as has his book written on the same principles, celebrating the dreams we all try to make a reality. It is a book that will be shared for generations to come.

2.   Ratan Tata: A Life by Thomas Mathew

This fascinating biography traces Ratan Tata’s years in immaculate detail, from his lonely childhood to his irrepressible youthful exuberance, from his first major job in the conglomerate to being appointed chairman of Tata Sons in 1991 to his role as the head of Tata Trusts, India’s largest philanthropic enterprise. It is as much a story of determination and an unwavering commitment to enduring principles and values as it is a testament to achieving unprecedented corporate success.

3.  The Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala

The story of former Doon School headmaster Shomie Das and childhood friends turned business partners, Naga Tummala and Raj Yarlagadda is a fascinating account of vision and enterprise, and the struggle that went into setting up the institution of their dream.

The Man Who Saw Tomorrow details Shomie Das’s ideas about how education should be an experience that children enjoy and not one that has been thrust upon them. What that entails is a deep acknowledgement and respect for the child as a unique individual.

Originally published: Mentor | mentor.lxl.in | Dec 30, 2024 | 6 min read

https://www.mentor.lxl.in/post/from-classrooms-to-bookshelves-creating-a-reading-journey-for-children