Author: VIBGYOR Group of Schools

How to Keep Your Little Ones Away from Smartphones

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Smartphones and tablets offer convenience that has made our lives easier in the last few decades. However, they also bring challenges, particularly concerning our children’s health and development. In today’s digital age, managing screen time for toddlers has become an essential part of parenting. Here are practical tips to help you reduce smartphone usage and encourage a healthier lifestyle for your little ones.

1. Understand the Impact of Screen Time

Before diving into techniques for reducing screen time for toddlers, it is important to understand why this is crucial. Excessive screen time can lead to issues like impaired vision, disrupted sleep, and reduced physical activity. Research suggests that children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, while for older children, balancing technology with other activities is key.

Trusted Source: American Academy of Pediatrics – Screen Time Guidelines

2. Set Clear Rules and Boundaries

Creating boundaries is a fundamental part of managing children’s smartphone exposure. Establishing clear rules about when and where smartphones can be used helps your child understand and respect these limits.

  • Designate Phone-Free Zones: Establish areas in your home, like the dining room and bedrooms, as screen-free zones. This ensures family time and sleep are not interrupted by screens.
  • Set Time Limits: Use tools like parental control apps to monitor and set daily limits on screen time. This helps maintain a balance and reinforces healthy screen habits for children.
  • Bedtime Routine: Incorporate relaxing activities into your bedtime routine that do not involve screens. This can improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

3. Introduce Smartphone Alternatives for Children

One effective way to reduce screen time is by providing smartphone alternatives for children. These can engage your child in a more interactive and productive manner.

  • Educational Toys: Invest in toys that promote learning and development. For instance, building blocks, puzzles, and activity books are excellent screen-free activities for toddlers.
  • Interactive Books: Encourage reading with interactive or sensory books that make learning fun without a screen.
  • Outdoor Play: Encourage activities like cycling, running, or playing in the park. Outdoor activities are great for physical health and provide an alternative to smartphone addiction.

4. Promote Engaging Offline Activities

Encouraging offline play for children is crucial in developing their social and cognitive skills. Here are some ways to make offline Play more appealing:

  • Arts and Crafts: Set up a craft station with supplies for drawing, painting, or building. Craft not only stimulates creativity but also keeps children occupied without screens.
  • Board Games: Introduce age-appropriate board games. Games like Memory Match or simple strategy games can be engaging and educational.
  • Cooking Together: Involve your child in simple cooking activities. This can be a fun way to teach them about healthy eating while spending quality time together.

5. Be a Role Model

Children often mimic their parents’ behaviours. If you want to limit smartphone use for children, start by setting a good example.

  • Limit Your Own Screen Time: Show your child that it is possible to enjoy other activities by reducing your own screen time. This helps in balancing technology use in children.
  • Engage in Family Activities: Spend time playing games, reading, or going outdoors as a family. This reinforces the value of screen-free activities.

6. Use Technology Wisely

While the goal is to reduce smartphone use, technology can also be used to your advantage.

  • Educational Apps: If your child uses a smartphone, choose educational apps that promote learning. Ensure these apps are age-appropriate and set time limits for their use.

7. Build Social Skills and Balance
 Social skills are crucial for a child’s development. Encourage your child to interact with peers and family members through engaging activities that don’t involve smartphones, while also teaching them the importance of balancing screen time.

  • Playdates: Arrange playdates where your child can interact with friends in a supervised environment. This promotes social skills and reduces reliance on screens for entertainment.
  • Creative Playtime: Encourage your child to use their imagination with activities like drawing, building with blocks, or playing with clay. These fun activities help them stay entertained and learn new skills without screens.
  • Open Conversations: Talk to your child about the benefits of balancing screen time with other activities. Explain how reducing screen time positively impacts their health, learning, and social skills, helping them understand and appreciate the value of a balanced lifestyle.

Conclusion

Managing children’s smartphone exposure and reducing screen time for toddlers is essential for promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle. By setting clear boundaries, offering engaging alternatives, and being a role model, you can help your child develop positive habits that extend beyond screen use. Remember, the goal is to create a balanced environment where technology complements, rather than dominates, daily life.

Implement these tips to ensure your child grows up with a healthy relationship with technology and enjoys a well-rounded childhood.

Get to know more Learning Activities to Engage a Pre-schooler at Home.

The Joy of Puzzles: How Solving Mathematical Problems Enhances Cognitive Skills

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Early years are crucial for brain development in children, and providing stimulating activities can significantly enhance their cognitive abilities. Research shows that about 90% of a child’s brain develops during early childhood. This makes it essential to engage children in activities that promote cognitive skills development and support their brain’s healthy growth. Math puzzles and mind games can significantly enhance brain development when paired with play, nutrition, and early education.

Research from the National Library of Medicine highlights a strong link between brain health and brain exercises like mathematical puzzles. These activities not only improve cognitive flexibility but also foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving techniques. Moreover, mathematical puzzles make learning fun while strengthening cognitive skills and boosting logical reasoning.

Here’s how different types of math challenges for children can help sharpen their minds and strengthen their cognitive abilities.

Math Crossword

Math crosswords are like traditional word crosswords, but instead of letters, children fill in the grid with digits to solve vertical and horizontal calculations. Each blank square corresponds to a number, guided by mathematical clues. Starting with simple puzzles focused on one operation, like addition, builds confidence. As learners/students progress, multiple operations can be introduced, enhancing their arithmetic skills and critical thinking. Overall, math crosswords offer a fun and interactive way for children to practise math while engaging their minds.

Sudoku

Sudoku is a widely popular number puzzle that focuses on logical thinking. The puzzle requires filling a 9×9 grid so that each row, column, and 3×3 grid within the larger grid contains the digits 1–9 without repetition. Sudoku is ideal for school- going children as it stimulates their ability to spot patterns and apply logic. As they work through the puzzle, children

 learn to apply deduction and develop a systematic approach to problem-solving. Successfully completing a Sudoku puzzle not only boosts their confidence but also fosters a positive attitude toward math and challenges.

Math Riddles and Brain Teasers

Cognitive flexibility and puzzles go hand-in-hand, and math riddles are a great way to exercise that flexibility. You can easily create riddles from everyday scenarios, making them relatable and fun. For example:

The Multiplying Bricks:

A brick weighs 1 kg plus half a brick. What is the weight of a full brick?

Answer: 2 kg (Set up the equation: Brick = 1 kg + ½ Brick)

Age Riddle:

Aman is 5 years older than his brother. If the sum of their ages is 21, how old is Aman?

Answer: 13 (Brother is 8, Aman is 5 years older)

Crossing the River Puzzle:

A family needs to cross a river using a boat. The boat can carry only 2 people at a time. If there are 4 family members (2 adults and 2 children), how many trips will it take to get everyone across the river?

Answer: 5 trips (First trip: 1 adult + 1 child, Second Return Trip: 1 adult, Third Trip: 1 adult + 1 child, Fourth Return Trip: 1 adult, Fifth Trip: 2 adults)

The Magic Age:

Rohan is 8 years old. His father is 4 times his age. How old will his father be when Rohan is 16?

Answer: 40 years (Father is currently 32 years; when Rohan turns 16, 8 years will pass, making his father 40).

Vedic Math

Vedic Math is an ancient system of calculation techniques that simplifies complex mathematical problems through mental shortcuts. By using these innovative strategies, children can perform arithmetic operations more swiftly and with greater accuracy. This approach not only enhances computational skills but also nurtures logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. As students learn to apply Vedic Math, they build confidence and develop a more positive attitude towards mathematics. This holistic method transforms traditional learning into an enjoyable and engaging experience, making math accessible for everyone.

Here are a couple of simple Vedic Math methods that can simplify calculations:

1. Multiplication by 11

Technique: To multiply a two-digit number by 11, add the two digits and place the sum in between them. If the sum is greater than 9, carry over the 1.

Example:

Multiply 34 by 11.

  1. Add the digits: 3 + 4 = 7.
  2. Place it in between 3 _ 7 4 → 374.
  3. Result: 34 × 11 = 374.

2. Squaring a Number Ending in 5

Technique: To square a two-digit number ending in 5, multiply the first digit by itself plus one, and append 25 at the end.

Example:

Square 75.

  1. Take the first digit (7) and multiply it by (7 + 1): 7 × 8 = 56.
  2. Append 25: 5625.
    Result: 75² = 5625.

Rubik’s Cube

The Rubik’s Cube is not just a colourful puzzle; it’s an excellent tool for enhancing spatial awareness and logical reasoning. As children manipulate the cube to find solutions, they engage in strategic planning and pattern recognition. The challenge of solving the Rubik’s Cube fosters perseverance as kids learn to tackle complex problems step by step. Moreover, this hands-on experience encourages patience and resilience, teaching them that success often requires repeated attempts and adjustments. By integrating fun with learning, the Rubik’s Cube cultivates a love for math and logic in a playful manner.

Finding Math Puzzles in Nature and Sports

Mathematics is everywhere, from the intricate patterns of nature to the strategies in sports, providing a rich landscape for engaging learners/students in learning. Observing mathematical concepts in the natural world like the symmetry of leaves or the spiral of shells helps children make real-world connections with what they learn in the classroom. Similarly, sports can introduce concepts like angles and trajectories, enhancing understanding through practical application. Children can also explore mathematical strategies like game theory to understand decision-making in competitive sports like chess, analysing the probability of certain moves or strategies for succeeding. Similarly, racing games can help children understand the concept of speed, time, and distance at a deeper level, By solving these puzzles, they develop critical thinking skills and an appreciation for the beauty of math in everyday life. This integration of math with nature and sports not only makes learning enjoyable but also demonstrates the relevance of mathematics beyond the classroom.

Abacus

The abacus makes mathematics exciting by turning numbers into a playful visual experience. With its simple bead movements, it helps learners/students grasp basic arithmetic quickly and fosters a love for numbers. The tactile nature of the abacus keeps children engaged, enhances memory retention, and strengthens their ability to perform mental math for simple calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. This interactive tool turns math lessons into fun exercises, making it easier for kids to understand the fundamental concepts.

Conclusion:

Engaging children in mathematical puzzles such as crosswords, Sudoku, and abacus exercises offers numerous benefits. These activities not only deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts but also cultivate essential skills applicable to real-life situations. By integrating such puzzles into your child’s daily routine, you lay a solid foundation for their mathematical journey, enhancing their ability to tackle everyday challenges with confidence.

As parents, providing positive reinforcement is vital. Celebrating every achievement, no matter how small, inspires children to persist in solving puzzles and broadening their mental horizons. By combining these mathematical challenges with a balanced routine of play, rest, and nutritious meals, you empower your child to develop into a confident and capable learner/student, ready to embrace more complex tasks with enthusiasm.

Also read our blog on Unlocking skills: The impact of playful learning on children’s development.

Learning Activities to Engage a Pre-schooler at Home

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In the hustle and bustle of daily life, keeping your pre-schooler engaged at home can be a real challenge. When your energetic little one finishes breakfast, you are left with the task of finding something to keep them occupied. You want activities that are both fun and educational. So, how do you strike the perfect balance between entertainment and learning, especially on days when you cannot step outside?

This guide offers a variety of learning activities that are not only enjoyable but also help your pre-schooler grow intellectually and creatively. Whether it is transforming a simple story time into a world of imagination or turning everyday items into musical instruments, these activities will ensure your child is both entertained and learning in a fun, engaging way.

Here is how you can do it:

1. Bring Story Time to Life

Start with something timeless—Story time. But we are not just talking about reading books; it is about creating a magical world where your child’s imagination can soar.

How to make it engaging?

  • Choose books with bright pictures and simple stories.
  • Turn reading into an adventure. Ask questions like, “Who is your favourite character? What do you think will happen next?”
  • Let your child describe the pictures or even create their own storylines.

Benefits:

  • Enhances vocabulary and listening skills.
  • Sparks imagination and creativity.
  • Fosters a lifelong love of reading.

2. Interactive Story Creation

Right after reading, take the excitement levels a notch higher by creating stories together. It is an excellent way to build language skills and creativity.

How to make it fun?

  • Begin a story and let your child add the next part. You can take turns adding to the tale.
  • Use toys, puppets, or even drawings to bring the story to life.
  • Write down or record the story to revisit later.

Benefits:

  • Encourages creativity and imagination.
  • Develops storytelling and language skills.
  • Builds confidence in expressing ideas.

3. Creative Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts are perfect for those days when your child needs a creative outlet. Plus, it is an excellent way to improve their motor skills.

How to begin?

  • Set up a small art corner with crayons, paper, glue, and scissors.
  • Encourage your child to draw, cut shapes, or make collages using materials like old magazines or cereal boxes.
  • Create art from recycled items like bottle caps and cardboard.

Benefits:

  • Boosts imagination and self-expression.
  • Develops fine motor skills.
  • Gives a sense of accomplishment when they complete their artwork.

4. Learning Through Play at Home

Games are a fantastic way to teach your pre-schoolers new concepts while keeping them entertained.

Ideas for educational games:

  • Memory Match: Create a matching game using cards or household items like lids and spoons. This improves memory and concentration.
  • Counting Fun: Use toys, fruits, or even cups to practice counting. Ask, “Can you give me three apples?” or “How many books are in this stack?”
  • Shape and Colour Sort: Use everyday items to teach shapes and colours. Have them sort by colour or shape using toys, clothes, or even utensils.

Benefits:

  • Enhances problem-solving skills.
  • Improves memory and concentration.
  • Makes learning enjoyable.

5. Music and Movement

Music and movement are perfect for channelling your child’s energy into something fun and educational.

How to make music and movement at home?

  • Use kitchen items like pots and wooden spoons as drums, or fill containers with rice to make shakers.
  • Clap your hands, stomp your feet, or jump along to a rhythm.
  • Play games like musical chairs where your child has to stop moving when the music stops.

Benefits:

  • Develops motor skills and coordination.
  • Enhances rhythm and auditory skills.
  • Provides a fun way to release energy.

6. DIY Science Experiments

Simple science experiments can turn your home into a mini laboratory, sparking curiosity in your pre-schooler.

Easy science experiments:

  • Volcano Eruption: Mix baking soda and vinegar in a bottle to create a mini volcano. Watch as the mixture fizzes and bubbles over.
  • Sink or Float: Gather different objects and have your child guess whether they will sink or float in a tub of water.
  • Grow a Plant: Plant a seed in a small pot and watch it grow. This teaches patience and the basics of plant life.

Benefits:

  • Encourages curiosity and observation.
  • Introduces basic scientific concepts.
  • Provides hands-on learning experiences.

7. Cooking Together

Cooking is more than just making food—it is a way to teach your child valuable life skills.

How to involve your child in cooking?

  • Start with simple, fireless recipes like making sandwiches, mixing fruit salads, or decorating cookies.
  • Let your child help with measuring ingredients, stirring, and assembling.
  • Use cooking to teach basic maths, like counting and measuring, and talk about the importance of a balanced diet.

Benefits:

  • Develops fine motor skills.
  • Introduces basic maths and science concepts.
  • Promotes healthy eating habits
  • Enhances the sense of touch, smell, and taste.

8. Make Pretend Play Fun

Pretend play is crucial for your child’s social and emotional development. It is also a fun way to explore different roles and scenarios.

Ideas for pretend play:

  • Create scenarios where your child can play as a plumber fixing a leak, an electrician fixing a light, or a carpenter building something with toy tools.
  • Let them act out being a cricketer hitting the winning shot or any sports player they admire.
  • Use everyday items to set up a play kitchen, doctor’s office, or grocery store.

Benefits:

  • Enhances social and communication skills.
  • Promotes empathy by understanding different roles.
  • Encourages creativity and problem-solving.

9. Explore the Outdoors

If you have access to a garden or park, outdoor exploration is a great way to combine learning with physical activity.

Outdoor activities to try:

  • Nature Walks: Explore plants, insects, and rocks in your garden or local park. Talk about what you see and encourage your child to ask questions.
  • Scavenger Hunts: Make a list of items like a leaf, a flower, or a stone, and have your child find them.
  • Gardening: If possible, have your child help with planting seeds, watering plants, or pulling weeds.

Benefits:

  • Sparks curiosity and sensitivity about nature.
  • Provides physical exercise.
  • Improves observation and exploration skills.

10. Building Blocks

Building blocks are classic toys that help develop spatial awareness and creativity.

How to make the most of building blocks?

  • Offer different shapes and sizes of blocks.
  • Challenge your child to build specific structures, like the tallest tower or a bridge.
  • Encourage imaginative play by creating stories around what they build.

Benefits:

  • Enhances fine motor skills.
  • Develops spatial reasoning.
  • Promotes creative thinking.

Conclusion

Keeping your pre-schooler engaged at home doesn’t have to be difficult. With these simple, fun, and educational activities, you can create an environment where your child can learn, play, and grow. Remember, the key is to make learning enjoyable and interactive. With a little creativity, you can turn everyday moments into valuable learning experiences for your pre-schooler.

Also check out our blog on How to Keep Your Little Ones Away from Smartphones.

VIBGYOR Viva: Where Every Talent Shines Bright

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From the moment they step into a classroom, children are pushed into a world where grades often determine their worth. But, the lines have blurred and education is going beyond academics. Textbook learning is crucial, but it is just one piece of the puzzle. Creative and cognitive abilities and personality-based skills complete this puzzle.

In fact, the National Education Policy 2020 highlighted the integration of life skills in school curricula at all levels, opening the doors to a more progressive educational framework.

While this move has brought about an educational revolution, it has also been instrumental in:

  • Exploring new avenues of creative growth

Hobbies like origami, chocolate-making, beatboxing, and t-shirt designing present new pathways for self-expression. Origami fosters precision, patience, and fine motor skills, whereas beatboxing develops rhythm and coordination in children. With chocolate-making enhancing culinary skills and t-shirt designing cultivating colour theories, kids experiment with flavours, colours, and more.

  • Mastering the art of personality-based skills

In a world that demands individuality and innovation, dancing, coding, or acting are no longer viewed as passion projects. Rise in personality-based competitions like talent shows helps children build confidence, hone their stage presence, improve their public speaking skills, and boost their ability to think independently.

As someone rightly stated, “Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life.”

Take Mark Zuckerberg for example, who started a small social media website that ultimately became Facebook, a multi-billion-dollar company. Or Bill Gates, who was all set on becoming a lawyer. But his passion for computers took over, and as they say, the rest is all history, and Microsoft came into being.

Imagine, if these masterminds hadn’t given their passion a chance and had gone with the flow.

  • Harnessing the power of cognitive abilities

Creative and personality-based skills are vital, but cognitive abilities drive learning and development forward. From critical thinking and problem-solving to memory and attention to detail – these abilities give kids the confidence to analyse information, question assumptions, and apply the knowledge to real-world situations.

  • Providing a winning edge through sports

Adding sports to the mix gives your child holistic growth. Did you know that the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests an average of 60 minutes of physical activity for 5-17-year-olds?

Letting your child pursue sports like football, handball, and cricket is instrumental in helping them collaborate. Athletics can help push their physical limits, whereas activities like swimming and skating improve stability and judo enhances their self-control.

We believe that every child has a unique perspective and potential that just needs to be discovered. They have what it takes to be inspiring geniuses. Correct guidance and a blend of academic prowess and skill-based learning can make all the difference.

And, what better way to build a generation that leads with their minds and hearts than with one of the most enigmatic inter-school festivals?

VIBGYOR Viva: Presenting the best of both worlds

For the last 16 years, VIBGYOR Viva has been a jubilant celebration of talent, diversity, and excellence in arts and sports. Not just a cultural hub for the world’s most dynamic, motivated, and enthusiastic students, this platform also invites the whole family to relive their childhood through their little one’s eyes.

Featuring an array of events, competitions, and workshops, our annual inter-school festival offers your child countless opportunities to shine. A launchpad unlike any other, it brings the most promising minds to build crucial abilities and leave an indelible mark in the world. Through the Viva movement, we also strive to foster a strong cultural quotient among our students.

With this aim, the event has witnessed an impressive performance from over 2,00,000 lakh students across the globe.

Unleashing the potential of our rising stars

Our competitions are more than just contests; they are experiences that students cherish. Amidst the friendly competition vibes, lifelong friendships are forged, and invaluable lessons are learned.

 Viva 16’s The Stars Ensemble is set to be a unified platform that goes beyond specific categories. This approach allows us to offer opportunities to a wide variety of performers, including dancers, singers, musicians, beatboxers, rappers, poets, impressionists, theatre artists, magicians, stand-up comics, artists, and anyone else with unique skills or performances that can enrich the vibrant tapestry of Viva 16.

As the spotlight shines on our students, it is not just about winning anymore; it is about their ambition that goes beyond the competition itself. We believe that, with the right encouragement and opportunity, your child can find their wings and soar higher. VIBGYOR Viva gives your little one those wings along with the strength and the platform they need to go out there and conquer the world.

Know more about VIBGYOR Viva by reading our other blogs: Interactive VIBGYOR Viva Workshops Learning Beyond Textbooks and VIBGYOR Viva 16: Celebrating Talent and Creativity and Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating Diversity at VIBGYOR Viva.

Supporting Through Transitions: A Blueprint for Parents

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Supporting Through Transitions: A Blueprint for Parents

Change is a powerful catalyst for growth. But for children, transitions often cause confusion and usher them into a world of the unknown.

The Early Childhood Transitions Research highlights that the key turning point in a child’s life, such as moving from kindergarten to primary school, presents challenges and opportunities for learning and growth at multiple levels.

Supporting children through changes requires balance – allowing them to explore possibilities independently while providing a thriving home environment. Your motivation helps them turn obstacles into opportunities.

So, what types of transitions are we discussing here?

Turning points: Understanding key transitions

Children go through several transitions that shape their development and emotional well-being. Here are some key transitions that you should be aware of:

A new city adventure

A test of courage and adaptability, moving to a new city urges children to navigate a new environment. The comfort of the known paves the way for the unfamiliar. Adjusting to a new place and leaving behind old friends and familiar sports can make kids feel uneasy.

A new school experience

Imagine a new classroom where everything feels new. Switching schools is more about your child adapting to a different educational setting and finding their place in a new world of friendships and learning. Getting accustomed to new teachers, classmates, and school customs requires you to offer emotional support to your children.

Childhood to adulthood

The shift from childhood to adulthood is marked by significant transformation. Helping kids cope with change encompasses the physical and emotional changes of puberty, the quest for identity, and the increased expectations that come with age. Socially, the dynamics of friendships shift, peer pressure intensifies, and the desire for acceptance becomes paramount.

Building blocks of academic transitions

When it comes to education, children experience significant developmental shifts. Kindergarten marks a child’s first step into formal education and brings in the initial separation anxiety. The change from home-based play and learning gives way to new routines, classrooms, and teachers. As they progress to primary school, the curriculum expands while they develop a sense of independence and responsibility.

The transition to secondary school can be more intimidating, with increased academic demand, a wider range of subjects, and the pressure to fit in socially. High school is more about serious academic choices, increased workload, and exploration of potential career paths. Finally, the transition to college brings about substantial changes, involving independence, time management, personal growth, and career preparation.

Adapting to digital learning

Amidst the global pandemic of COVID-19, the routines followed by children were abruptly disrupted. With digital classrooms and home environments, the transition to remote learning was not just a shift in education but a profound adjustment in daily life.

As per the Awareness and Use of Digital Learning Before and During COVID-19 report, students’ digital learning usage increased significantly after the pandemic outbreak, and they are more satisfied with the digital learning facilities.

Why are transitions so challenging to navigate?

“One of the reasons why transitions are hard is that we are often transitioning from a preferred activity – something we like doing – to something that we need to do”, says David Anderson, PhD, a child psychologist at the Child Mind Institute.

Transitions can be incredibly tough for both parents and children. The emotional, psychological, and practical adjustments required to navigate these periods can be demanding, making it essential to approach transitions with patience and understanding.

For example, children often act out by eating less, throwing tantrums, displaying a lack of confidence, disobeying their parents, showcasing aggression, fighting with siblings, and blatantly lying. The generational gap between parents and children can complicate life transitions. Differing values, communication styles, and expectations often cause friction. It is tough for parents too as they need to manage time amidst hectic schedules, and balance between work and kids.

As we shed light on support and guidance, here are some parenting tips for transitions that can simplify the process for you and your little one.

Parental guidance: Turning transitions into triumphs

Guiding kids through life changes involves active listening, validating feelings, and offering help to ease the transition. When you are supportive, you empower your child, offer stability for children during the transition, and embrace new opportunities and a positive mindset.

During times of change, your role as a parent is crucial in guiding your child through uncharted waters and helping kids cope with change. With these strategies, you will equip your child with the tools they need to face transitions with confidence and resilience.

  • Communication is key: Managing transitions in parenting is all about open communication. Encourage open dialogue by asking them to share specific worries. Ask questions like “What are you most worried about?” or normalise their feelings by saying “I remember feeling nervous when I started a new job and it got easier with time.”
  • Set a routine: Ease your child’s anxiety by using timetables that give them a sense of stability and security. For example, create a chart with images and icons to represent daily routines, such as waking up, brushing your teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast, and more.
  • Power of positivity: Discuss the exciting aspects of school regularly that help build your child’s resilience during transitions. Whether it is a favourite class, a beloved teacher, or a fun activity, focusing on positive experiences can reduce anxiety and create excitement.
  • Patience under pressure: Transitions are not just hard on children; they can be stressful for parents too. Show them how patience can work wonders under pressure. If your child is anxious about a new school, spend a few evenings before bedtime discussing their feelings and reassuring them that it is natural to feel nervous.
  • Positive reinforcement in action: A simple pat on the back or high-five can reinforce their courage and willingness to face new experiences. For example, if your child handles a challenging situation, a heartfelt compliment like, “I am so proud of you for trying something new today.”, can make them feel valued and give them a much-needed emotional boost.

It is important to remember that while transitions may be difficult, they are also opportunities for your children to grow, learn, and explore new possibilities. Parenting through transitions is all about offering a shoulder to lean on and supporting children through the changes they undergo. Through shared experiences, mutual support, and unwavering love, families can emerge stronger and more connected.

Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating Diversity at VIBGYOR Viva

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In today’s interconnected world, embracing diversity and ensuring that all individuals are valued is crucial. As we prepare young minds for the future, it is essential to foster environments that celebrate differences and prioritise equal opportunities for everyone.

Educational policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) in India emphasise the need for holistic education that embraces diversity and nurtures every child’s unique potential. Additionally, the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and 10) highlight quality education and reduced inequalities, underscoring the global commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable learning spaces.

True education extends beyond textbooks. It encompasses life skills, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the rich amalgamation of cultures that make up our world. This belief is beautifully encapsulated in our annual inter-school festival, VIBGYOR Viva—a celebration of diversity, and ingenuity.

Celebrating Diversity- A Platform Welcoming All

Viva is more than just a festival; it is a platform that brings together the vibrant hues of different cultures, traditions, and talents. Each year, Viva transforms into a melting pot of regional songs, folk dances, and varied art forms, showcasing the incredible diversity of our students. From the traditional beats of classical dances to the modern rhythms of hip-hop, Viva embraces every performance with open arms, celebrating the unique essence each student brings.

Imagine the sight of a young student from the southern part of India performing a Bharatanatyam dance alongside a peer showcasing the energetic moves of Bhangra from the north. The stage at Viva becomes a living canvas where these diverse art forms paint a picture of unity in diversity.

VIBGYOR Viva stands as a testament to our commitment to providing a platform that is open to all. It invites students from different age groups, cultures, geographies, and genders to participate, perform, and shine. Whether it’s through creative skills like arts and crafts or personality-based competitions, every child finds their niche at Viva.

For instance, our workshops and competitions span a wide range of interests, from Origami and Beatboxing to Puppet Making and Chocolate Making. These activities are designed to engage today’s youth, allowing them to explore and hone their skills in a supportive environment. Viva is not just about competition; it is about collaboration, learning, and growth.

The Impact of VIBGYOR Viva

Over the years, Viva has become a beacon of talent, attracting over 2 lakh students from schools across the globe. Each edition of Viva sees never-before-seen performances and inspiring displays of dedication and skill. The festival has provided countless students with the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, showcase their abilities, and gain recognition for their hard work.

But the impact of Viva goes beyond individual achievements. It develops a sense of community, encouraging students to appreciate and celebrate each other’s differences. By bringing together children from various backgrounds, Viva helps break down barriers and build bridges of understanding and respect.

 A Vision for the Future

As we prepare for the 16th edition of VIBGYOR Viva, we are filled with excitement and anticipation. We aim to create an even more exuberant celebration of talent, diversity, and excellence in both arts and sports from all over the world.

Our vision is to provide every student with a launch pad to soar into a world where imagination knows no bounds and dreams come true. We invite students, parents, and educators to join us in this journey, to witness the incredible transformation of young minds, and to celebrate the boundless potential that resides within each child.

In a world that is increasingly interconnected yet often divided, VIBGYOR Viva stands as a beacon of hope and unity. It is a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of education to bring people together and create a better future for all. As we look forward to another spectacular edition of Viva, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing every child’s unique talents and providing a platform where they can shine.

Join us at VIBGYOR Viva and be a part of a journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of human potential. Let’s break boundaries together and unleash the colours of uniqueness in every child.

Know more about VIBGYOR Viva by reading our other blogs: Interactive VIBGYOR Viva Workshops Learning Beyond Textbooks and VIBGYOR Viva 16: Celebrating Talent and Creativity and VIBGYOR Viva: Where Every Talent Shines Bright.



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