Author: VIBGYOR Group of Schools

From dance to swimming: 6 screen-free recreational activities to keep kids entertained this summer

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From dance sessions to swimming adventures, here are six fun and engaging activities that will keep children active, entertained and screen-free all summer long
Summer is the perfect time for kids to take a break from screens and engage in activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Spending more time indoors is recommended as the summer heats up, especially for children who often like to play outside in the sweltering heat. However, as children crave recreation, this move indoors can leave them frustrated throughout the summer holidays. Unregulated screen time can become addictive, even as technology offers parents an easy way to entertain their children. Keeping children more involved in indoor activities is a realistic way to reduce screen time. If you’re looking for ways to keep your children occupied during the heatwave, here are some indoor activities they might enjoy.

Shaji Kuttiani, Director Sports & Events, VIBGYOR Group of Schools, shared with HT Lifestyle six fun screen-free recreational activities to keep kids entertained this summer.

1. Art and Craft: Boost your child’s creativity with art and craft projects. Set up a designated crafting area with supplies like paper, paints, markers, glue, and scissors. Encourage them to create anything from paintings to sculptures using their imagination. This activity not only allows kids to express themselves but also helps improve their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

2. Dance: Dance classes are a fantastic way for kids to express themselves creatively while staying physically active. Whether it’s ballet, hip-hop, or jazz, dancing encourages coordination, flexibility, and self-confidence. Plus, it’s a great way for kids to unwind and release energy positively and expressively.

3. Judo: Discover the art of balance, agility, and discipline through judo classes at summer camps. Rooted in Japanese martial arts, judo emphasises technique over brute strength, making it accessible and enjoyable for kids of all sizes and abilities. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, campers learn throws, holds, and falls in a safe and supportive environment, fostering physical fitness and mental focus.

4. Swimming: Splashing around in the pool is a classic summer activity that never gets old. Swimming not only helps kids stay cool in the summer heat but also provides an excellent full-body workout. Whether they’re learning basic strokes or perfecting their dives, swimming offers a fun and refreshing way for kids to stay active while improving their physical fitness and water safety skills.

5. Basketball: Get active outside with a game of basketball. Set up a hoop in your driveway or visit a nearby park with a court. Teach your child the fundamentals of shooting, dribbling, and passing, then let them practice their skills in friendly pickup games or drills. Basketball promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and coordination, making it an ideal activity for kids who love sports.

6. Cricket: Encouraging kids to play cricket is a great way to keep them entertained and active while promoting learning and inculcating values. As the excitement of the ongoing IPL (Indian Premier League) is looming, it’s the perfect time to channel their cricket fever into a productive recreational activity during the summer vacation. With every swing, bowl, and catch during their playing session, they will not only hone their cricketing skills but also cultivate invaluable qualities like teamwork, sportsmanship, and strategic thinking.

This summer, encourage your kids to unplug from screens and explore the world around them through these engaging and enriching recreational activities. Whether they are creating art, mastering a new skill, or staying active with sports, there’s no shortage of screen-free fun to be had!

Source: Hindustan Times

The Transformative Impact of the Cambridge International Curriculum on Student Engagement and Holistic Learning in India

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Cambridge International Education (CIE) has been a pivotal force in shaping educational standards since its establishment in 1858. Today, it stands as the world’s largest provider of international education for students aged 3 to 19, operating across 160 countries. Cambridge education offers a comprehensive educational framework that spans from kindergarten to higher secondary levels (K-12), aligning curriculum, teaching methodologies, and assessments. This structure is designed not only to enhance academic performance but also to cultivate essential life skills, making it an attractive choice for schools seeking to prepare students for the complexities of the modern world.

The introduction of Cambridge International Education (CIE) represents a transformative shift in India’s education system, reflecting a broader move towards a more skills-based and adaptable curriculum. Traditional Indian education has often emphasised rote learning, but there is growing recognition of the need for a curriculum that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. CIE addresses this demand, integrating seamlessly into India’s academic framework by offering a participatory, application-based approach. While this shift opens up new opportunities, some parents may have reservations, fearing it deviates from familiar, exam-oriented methods. However, CIE aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) by fostering holistic, competency-based learning and shifting away from rote memorisation. Additionally, its curriculum supports core Indian educational values while equipping students for higher education and global careers. Students, in turn, can adapt to this curriculum by engaging in continuous assessment and learning beyond textbooks, ultimately developing skills valued in both academic and professional settings. 

An exciting example of this innovative educational approach is the launch of VIBGYOR World Academy in Bhopal. This institution aims to deliver the Cambridge curriculum, providing students with access to a world-class education that emphasises personalised learning experiences. VIBGYOR World Academy will provide an assessment centred on real-world applications and deep understanding, enabling students to customise their educational journey according to their unique strengths and goals. The curriculum not only prepares students for higher education abroad but also instils a global perspective, preparing them to thrive in diverse environments.

In conclusion, Cambridge International Education is poised to significantly impact student engagement and holistic learning in India. As schools like VIBGYOR World Academy adopt this progressive framework, they are not only enhancing educational standards but also nurturing a new generation of learners equipped with the critical skills needed to succeed in a dynamic global landscape. The future of education in India looks promising, with the Cambridge curriculum leading the way in fostering engaged, capable, and innovative students.

10 Proven Strategies to Manage Result Anxiety: Expert Tips for Students

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Waiting for exam results can be an excruciating experience and globally affects students. According to a 2022 survey by NCERT, approximately 80% of students grapple with exam and result anxiety. While this stress is ubiquitous, its impact varies among individuals. Which is why there are a plethora of proven strategies to help students effectively manage result anxiety, drawing from expert insights and practical techniques.

1. Maintain a Daily Routine:

Creating and adhering to a daily routine can provide structure and stability during the anxious waiting period. Engaging in activities such as hobby classes not only fills up time but also distracts the mind from dwelling on the impending results. An idle mind often invites negative thoughts, making it crucial to keep oneself occupied with productive pursuits. A balance between physical health and mental health is very crucial to maintain overall wellbeing.

2. Avoid Comparing Answers:

Post-exam discussions are common among students, but dwelling on comparisons can exacerbate anxiety. Resist the urge to revisit the exam paper or ruminate over your responses. Such actions only fuel unnecessary stress and do not contribute positively to the outcome.

3. Seek Support:

It’s essential to reach out for support when overwhelmed by anxiety. Whether it’s confiding in friends, teachers, family, or seeking professional help, sharing your feelings can alleviate the burden. Guidance from mentors or counsellors can offer valuable perspectives and coping mechanisms to deal with the anxiety positively

4. Incorporate Physical Exercise:

Exercise stands as a mighty stress-buster, backed by solid scientific findings. When you get moving, your body releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that also dial down anxiety. So, during result anticipation, squeezing in some exercise isn’t just about staying in shape; it’s about giving your mental well-being a boost through a tried-and-tested method. Whether you prefer a quick stroll, hitting the gym, swimming, playing any sport or stretching out with yoga, each session chips away at stress, leaving you feeling better prepared to tackle those pending results.

5. Manage Stress on Result Day:

The anticipation of result day often peaks stress levels. To mitigate this, avoid stimulants like coffee or energy drinks, which can exacerbate anxiety. Additionally, minimise exposure to social media or discussions surrounding results to prevent undue distress.

6. Practice Mindfulness:

While mindfulness may initially seem complex, particularly for younger students, it proves to be a valuable tool in stress management. It involves understanding the link between our thoughts, feelings, and what we feel physically. Through mindfulness exercises, students can become aware of negative thoughts and their impact on their bodies. Techniques like deep breathing aid in regaining composure and promoting a sense of calm. Studies indicate that regular mindfulness practice can even restructure the brain, enhancing its ability to regulate emotions. Therefore, despite its initial intricacy, embracing mindfulness serves as a potent approach for students dealing with result anxiety, empowering them with a feeling of mastery and overall well-being.

7. Prioritise Sleep:

Quality sleep is paramount for cognitive function and emotional well-being. Aim for a sufficient number of hours each night, as inadequate sleep can impair judgment and exacerbate anxiety. Understanding the physiological benefits of sleep underscores its importance in managing result anxiety. Many students turn to binge eating as a way to cope with negative emotions. This also impacts sleep patterns leading to stress. Mindful eating needs to be exercised.

8. Cognitive Restructuring:

Cognitive restructuring involves challenging and reframing negative thoughts that contribute to anxiety. Encourage students to identify irrational beliefs such as “I must get a perfect score” and replace them with more realistic and positive statements like “I have prepared to the best of my ability, and that’s what matters.” By restructuring their thought patterns, students can alleviate the pressure they place on themselves and reduce result-related anxiety.

9. Visualisation Techniques:

Visualisation techniques involve mentally rehearsing success scenarios to instill confidence and reduce anxiety. Encourage students to visualise themselves receiving their results calmly and feeling proud of their achievements, regardless of the outcome. By repeatedly engaging in positive visualisation, students can build resilience and strengthen their belief in their abilities, ultimately diminishing result-related anxiety.

10. Progressive Muscle Relaxation:

Progressive muscle relaxation is a powerful relaxation method derived from yoga and meditation practices. By systematically tensing and then releasing various muscle groups, individuals can induce a state of deep physical relaxation. Guided sessions can assist students in performing this exercise, beginning with the toes and gradually progressing to the head. This technique is known to alleviate physical manifestations of anxiety, such as muscle tension and increased heart rate. Encouraging regular practice of progressive muscle relaxation, particularly during times of heightened result anxiety, can promote feelings of tranquillity and enhance overall well-being.

References:

https://cogbtherapy.com/cognitive-restructuring-in-cbt#:~:text=Cognitive%20restructuring%20refers%20to%20the,or%20enabling%20more%20skillful%20behavior.

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/stress/9-visualization-techniques-for-stress-reduction

Fun Ways to Keep Children Occupied in the Vacations

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Aanchal Vasandani,
VP Content,
VIBGYOR Group of Schools

 As summer vacation approaches, parents frequently face the age-old question of how to keep their children occupied and engaged through their break. Fortunately, numerous educational and recreational activities are available that spark creativity, cultivate learning, and offer a pleasant and exciting summer for children of all ages. Here are some fun ideas to keep your children occupied throughout their break, fostering creativity, exploration, and lasting memories. 

Summer camps:  

One fantastic aspect of summer camps is the opportunity for children to discover new interests ranging from activities that help build physical strength and endurance, to dance, drama, and other creative aesthetics, to scientific explorations, the options are endless. These activities keep children invested but also teach them valuable skills for the 21st century, such as discipline, endurance, teamwork, and perseverance. Imagine your child mastering a new karate move, scoring a winning basket, or performing a monologue – the sense of accomplishment is priceless!  

Embrace the Outdoors:  

Vacations are the perfect time to get active and explore the great outdoors! Plan hikes or bike rides in scenic locations. Pack a picnic basket and head to the park for a game of throwball or catch. Beach trips are a classic choice, offering swimming, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells. Backyard camps under the stars with storytelling and roasting fish/chicken/mushrooms can create magical memories. 

Field trips:  

Field trips are fantastic ways to combine learning with fun. Museums ignite curiosity by showcasing historical artefacts, captivating art, or interactive science exhibits. Zoos and aquariums allow children to observe fascinating animals from all over the world, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. Science centres offer hands-on activities that ignite a passion for STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Local historical sites like forts or monuments can bring history to life, making it more engaging than textbooks. 

Create Lasting Memories with Family Fun:  

Vacations are a prime opportunity to strengthen family bonds. Cosy up for a movie night with popcorn and laughter. Organise a family game night, dusting off classic board games or trying out new ones. For a creative twist, invent your own family game – charades with a vacation twist or a scavenger hunt around the house are sure to bring giggles. Plan a themed dinner night, complete with costumes and decorations. Explore different cultures through food – try a new recipe together or visit an ethnic restaurant.  These shared experiences create cherished memories that children will hold dear long after the vacation ends. 

Sports and Games Galore:  

Physical activity is essential for children’s well-being. Organise sports tournaments in your building courtyard or neighbourhood park. Games like basketball, cricket, handball, or badminton can keep everyone active and engaged. For younger children, plan obstacle courses or treasure hunts in the park, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills. Consider joining a local sports league or enrolling your child in a recreational activity camp for a structured and social experience. 

Learning Through Doing–Cultivate Life Skills:  

Vacations present a valuable opportunity to introduce children to basic life skills and vocational interests.  Cooking is a fun way to teach them about healthy eating habits and basic kitchen skills. Start with simple recipes like baking cookies or making pizza dough. Sewing and textile crafts allow for creativity and personalised projects.  For the tech-savvy child, explore graphic design software, coding basics, or robotics kits that teach them valuable technical skills. Consider planting a small garden together, teaching them about plant life and the responsibility of caring for living things. 

Vacations are a time for families to connect, explore, and create lasting memories. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn this unstructured period into a fun-filled learning experience for your children. So, put on those thinking caps, grab your adventurous spirit, and get ready to beat the boredom blues together! 

Skills to Success: Paving the Path to Workplace Excellence

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Imagine a workplace where creativity meets technology, problem-solving extends across virtual teams, and flexibility and innovation pave the way for success.

In this dynamic landscape, skills that were once valued as ‘nice-to-have’ are now crucial. This is why 21st-century skills for students are redefining the future of work.

Adapting to change: Why future workplace skills matter

According to the 2021 Mind the [Skills] Gap report released by McKinsey & Company, 87% of companies mention that they are either facing a skills shortage or expect to do so in the next five years.

As technologies and industries evolve, the future workplace demands more than just knowledge; it requires skills that will help students thrive in this ever-shifting landscape. By empowering students to embrace change and think beyond textbooks, schools are not just preparing them for jobs; they are shaping the trailblazers of tomorrow, ready to conquer challenges and drive meaningful impact.

Essential future workplace skills for students

Gone are the days when academic knowledge alone was enough for success. Today, essential skills for students not only prepare them for uncertainties but also allow them to lead and shape the future. Let’s dive into the future workplace skills that will help students in this rapidly changing environment.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving: Students need to cultivate critical thinking skillsand problem-solving abilities to tackle complex problems, preparing them to lead in a world that requires swift decision-making. Participating in debates and discussions, problem-based learning projects, and role-based activities can encourage them to find innovative solutions.
  • Digital literacy: With the world being so tech-driven, digital literacy for students is vital to adapt and excel in the online environment. For example, students working on group projects utilise Google Sheets or Excel sheets to share and edit documents or use Microsoft Teams or Google Meet to discuss ideas remotely. Digital literacy is also about respecting intellectual property and maintaining a secure online presence. It involves acknowledging ownership of ideas, adhering to copyright laws, and fostering a culture of creativity and fairness in the digital space. At the same time, one must maintain a secure online presence protecting personal information, using strong passwords, and staying vigilant against cyber threats.
  • Adaptability: In a future workplace, change is constant and opportunities are endless. But, what makes a student stand out are their adaptability and resilience skills. For example, during a team project, if the requirements change, an adaptable student quickly adjusts their approach, proposes new ideas, and helps the team realign its efforts. When setbacks occur, they remain calm, demonstrating a resilient behaviour that sets them apart in their workplace.
  • Communication and collaboration: Mastering these skills can help students transform individual potential into collective success. In an organisation, the ability to share ideas, actively listen, and work together is crucial. Clear communication allows students to share ideas and align team goals, while active listening builds empathy and resolves conflicts. By practising these skills, students collaborate efficiently and contribute to a cohesive team, all of which are essential for success in any future workplace.
  • Leadership: Leadership development for students means stepping up, taking responsibility, and achieving a common goal. Students who take on leadership roles inspire innovation, lead by example, and create a culture of trust. For example, organising events brings out the leadership side in students as they need to coordinate with teachers, students, and vendors while keeping the team going.
  • Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills: This is about recognising feelings and using that awareness to navigate social dynamics with compassion and respect. For example, students who notice a classmate struggling due to stress during a group project can take the time to offer support, show empathy, and help to lift their mood.

Navigating a new era: The trends that redefine work

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker

Today, students possess the power to create the future they want. By knowing future workforce trends, they can conquer the workplace with confidence and skills.

With the dynamic combination of human ability and artificial intelligence taking precedence, students need to possess a diverse skill set and a lifelong learning mindset. Only the ones who can adapt to these new trends will be the ones to thrive in the years to come. Hybrid work models combine the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of an in-office environment. Factors like diversity, equity, and inclusion are no longer aspirations but imperatives, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. Networking and mentoring connect you with like-minded people who can guide you and inspire you, whereas upskilling and reskilling urge you to always stay curious and stay connected.

Nurturing potential: Tips for parents and teachers to support students

  1. Empower with purpose: One way to instil future workplace skills in students is to shift the focus from rote learning to problem-solving. Encourage students to ask ‘why’ and ‘how’ instead of just accepting information. Teach them how to evaluate and resolve problems creatively.
  1. Provide consistent encouragement: You must recognise the efforts of the child, not just their achievements. As teachers or parents, praise their hard work, progress, and resilience. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and builds a mindset of perseverance, even in the face of challenges.
  1. Foster a curious environment: Career readiness for students starts with asking bold questions without the fear of being wrong. Being curious encourages students to be innovative and keep learning lifelong. As teachers and parents, you need to reward inquisitiveness as much as correctness.
  1. Build emotional intelligence: When it comes to 21st-century skills for students, emotional intelligence plays a big role. So, teach children to manage their emotions, empathise with others, and communicate their feelings and thoughts effectively. Role-playing scenarios at home or in the classroom can build self-awareness, active listening, and conflict-resolution skills, which are as valuable as technical expertise in any workplace.
  1. Embrace the failures: Teach students to view failure as a lesson, not a limitation. Celebrate efforts, not just outcomes. Encourage them to reflect and try again with renewed determination. Share your own stories of setbacks and comebacks, and remind them that every stumble is a step toward success.

The future belongs to those who are ready to learn, grow, and embrace future workplace skills. By instilling these skills, we are equipping them with the tools necessary to thrive in diverse professional environments.  As educators and parents, it is your collective responsibility to nurture these skills in your students, empowering them to adapt, lead, and succeed in the workplaces of tomorrow.

5 WAYS TO GAMIFY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

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Environmental education is crucial for building a sustainable future, but traditional methods can sometimes feel boring. Here’s where gamification comes in! Gamification, the application of game-design elements in non-game contexts, offers a dynamic and engaging approach to teaching these important concepts. By integrating game elements such as interactive simulations, point systems, and narrative-driven quests, educators can enhance student engagement while deepening students’ understanding of ecological concepts. Moreover, gamification fosters a sense of achievement in students that encourages them to continue learning.

Here are five creative and effective ways to gamify environmental education:

  1. Eco-Quests and Challenges

Concept: Transforming lessons into adventurous quests can capture students’ imaginations and motivate them to learn more about environmental issues.

Implementation: Creating a series of eco-themed quests where students must solve environmental puzzles or complete tasks. These tasks include identifying local plant species, understanding waste segregation, or finding solutions to reduce carbon footprints in their community. Incorporating technology through mobile apps or QR codes that provide clues and track progress.

    Benefits: Eco-quests foster teamwork, critical thinking, and practical application of environmental knowledge. They also encourage students to explore their surroundings and connect with nature.

    1. Environmental Simulation Games

    Concept: Using simulation games to model complex environmental systems and scenarios.

      Implementation: Games like SimCity, but with a focus on sustainability, allow students to manage a virtual city where they must balance economic growth with environmental conservation. Alternatively, custom-built games can simulate specific ecosystems where players must make decisions to maintain biodiversity, manage resources, or respond to environmental crises.

      Benefits: Simulation games provide a hands-on learning experience about the consequences of environmental decisions. They help students understand the interconnectedness of ecological systems and the impact of human activities on these systems.

      1. Green Points System

      Concept: Introduce a points-based reward system that designates the winner as the Eco-Champion, encouraging environmentally friendly behaviours.

        Implementation: Creating a classroom or school-wide system where students earn points for activities like recycling, reducing energy usage, participating in clean-up drives, or completing environmental projects. Points can be tracked on a leaderboard, and rewards can include eco-friendly prizes or privileges.

        Benefits: This approach incentivises positive behaviour and instils habits that contribute to environmental sustainability. It also fosters a sense of healthy competition and community involvement.

        1. Interactive Storytelling and Role-Playing

        Concept: Engaging students through interactive storytelling and role-playing games that highlight environmental challenges.

          Implementation: Teachers can develop storylines where students take on roles such as environmental scientists, policymakers, or activists. Through role-playing, they can navigate scenarios like negotiating climate agreements, managing a wildlife reserve, or campaigning for green policies. Use multimedia resources to enhance the storytelling experience.

          Benefits: Role-playing and storytelling can make abstract or complex environmental issues more relatable and understandable. It also allows students to empathise with different perspectives and understand the real-world impact of environmental decisions.

          1. Eco-Friendly Competitions and Tournaments

          Concept: Utilising VR and AR technologies to create immersive learning experiences about the environment.

            Implementation: Using VR headsets to take students on virtual field trips to diverse ecosystems such as rainforests, coral reefs, or arctic landscapes. AR apps can overlay environmental information onto real-world settings, allowing students to see the impact of pollution or deforestation in their own neighbourhoods.

            Benefits: VR and AR provide engaging and immersive experiences that can make learning about the environment exciting and memorable. They offer unique opportunities for students to explore places and phenomena that are otherwise inaccessible.

            Conclusion
            By incorporating these gamified strategies into the environmental education curriculum, educators can create an engaging and dynamic learning experience that motivates students to actively participate in protecting and preserving our planet. These approaches not only make learning fun but also instil a sense of responsibility and empowerment in students as they become more eco-conscious citizens.



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