FIRST ANNUAL DAY CELEBRATIONS- 2007-2008
25.12.08-Today by 7 A.M, our chief guest family has arrived to Sendurai. They have been dropped in taxi by Mr.Ravichanderan. We thank him for his interest in this school. Balaji was appreciating the natural setup of the village. His children were so happy and free moving in Mani’s home. Mani’s family also welcomed them warmly and made them to feel very comfortable.
After the regular morning formalities we had good breakfast and left to our HOC. By sharp 9, our staff and few of our parents gave warm welcome to the chief guest family.
We took them around the HOC and our staffs were asked to care them.
*** By 9.30 A.M, Dr.Pradheepkumar and his family called from USA and parents –staff listened to their message. Chief Guest also spoke to them. Pranav has made the excellent greeting card which carries the various aspects of our HOC in the pictorial depiction. Priya and Pradheep have also send greetings and messages to staff and parents. The greetings and message got explained before all.
Balaji said, ‘’ it is very much inspiring to see the Montessori HOC in a village. I can feel the real depth in the Montessori philosophy inside this school. The efforts made by staff and foundations are very much realized by me’’
Mrs.Kavitha said, ‘’ I can see the real difference between the Montessori setup between the city and village. I feel the HOC has implemented all most every aspect of Dr.Montessori’s views about the children and education’’.
THE GREAT INDIAN FLAG:
Then Mani’s father hoisted the great Indian flag and we all sang the state song and saluted the national flag. Children observed the ground rules and followed perfect behavior. Then we all went inside the main hall and settled for the meeting.
Mrs.Priyakannan who took her assignments for the day to her home beyond her son’s illness gave a perfect welcome address.
Then I gave the thanking greetings for all who are behind this great scheme and asked the chief guests to honor Dr.Montessori and Gandhiji with flowers. Then we all chanted the school prayers.
Then I introduced them to the parents. Slowly many parents started arriving.
THE SACRED LAMPS OF WISDOM: Two traditional clay lamps of wisdom were lighted by the chief guests and placed before Dr.Montessori and Gandhiji. Two lamps denote the completion of one year and beginning of second year.
Mrs. Kavitha’s speech delivered the following aspects:
1. Her experiences about Montessori system.
2. How she got into this system?
3. Her husband’s role in uplifting her as a Montessori staff.
4. Her children’s evolution in a Montessori HOC.
5. How to control our anxiety and anger before the children and society?
6. How to observe a child within the school?
Mr.Arulbalaji‘s speech delivered the following messages:
1. The real chief guest in a school is the parents who have made their presence and recognized their children.
2. What made him to become a Montessori parent?
3. Why he made his wife to take Montessori training?
4. What he wanted from the young parents?
5. He asked them to do 3 things:
· Shed your anger and comparison.
· Believe the school and surrender the children to the staff.
· Spread Montessori movement.
He too spoke about the fees structure and asked the parents to pay it regularly.
· I am not writing many things about his talk because he has praised us a lot.
THE WAY WE HONORED:
When I was studying in B.B.B school I have seen my craft teacher Mrs.Revathy decorating pure cotton towels as garlands and she said that the school follows Gandhi’s few simple principles. We buy kaadhi cotton clothing to honor him and also to help the weavers. So I wished that to be done in our Sakthy School also. So we made few garlands and honored our VIP people. I too explained about how my teachers have inspired me all many such things.
· Mr.Ayyanna garlanded Mr.Arulbalagi.
· Miss. Selvi garlanded Mrs. Kavitha.
· Mrs.Kavitha and Mr.Arulbalaji inturn honored Mani’s parents.
· HOC children gave bouquets to chief guest family.
· Teachers gave the brass bowl full of flowers to the chief guest.
· Children gave the box full of clay vegetables and fruits made by our children to chief guest’s children.
· Then we also honored Mr – Mrs.Ganeshkumar from Pongalloor who are taking steps for a new HOC in their village. He has paid Rs.101 for his daughter in 2006 when we started the school plan.
R EPORTS
We gave away the narrative reports, Certificate which say top 10 skills of a child, Guide book about Montessori system to parents and a greeting with Maria’s quotation. This book was received and honored by Mrs.Kavitha.
Each child was invited by Miss.Mallika , Mrs.Shanthi and Bodhini with an introduction to them. The parents were so proud of them and saw their children receiving the report.
Children, who were ill, received the reports through their father or mother. There were few parents who have never turned up and we too commented about that.
Then we have asked Rajashrees’s father to address about the child’s vocabulary skill and parenting. Meanwhile we too decently highlighted the bad way of handling emergency situations by them without openly pointing out their names.
Few children sang few Montessori songs. Miss. Sasikala gave introduction to Montessori songs. Then we all joined and sang few songs.
Balamithran narrated the story of Pandurangan.
Rajashree exposed her vocabulary skill before every body.
HONORING SESSION:
We have greeted and honored Mrs.Kalaivani who was our first staff. I spoke about her talents and her parents were honored in her absence with grand gifts.
Then we have received Mrs.Bodhini and her husband. Children and parents gave warm applause for them and gave flowers. He was honored with towel and she was honored with kaadhi mat letter hanger.
We also honored Mrs.Jothy akka and Mrs.Shanthi. Then we gave the sacred brass lamps of wisdom to all other staff and parents who were attending the previous day festival. Lamps were given to all by Chief Guest’s children Rakshitha and Harshavardhini.
Then we also honored Late.Mr.Palaniswamy for his service and Mr.Dharma who have taken free service in transferring all materials from Madras.
Then we read out the annual budget and greeted all the staff members who are behind this great success.
· We asked our parents about the idol of GOD Murugan to get placed in the village. But every body opposed that because they all said that their children are growing with true spiritual qualities and discipline because of this idol.
We too explained the International Montessori Congress – 2009.
We ended the festival by 2 A.M and admired our children and parents for their presence for a long time.
We all stood and sang the national anthem and concluded the festival and asked all to view the album room and take sweets. Usha amma has prepared sweet porridge and sundal. She was totally involved in cooking for the guests and staff. We thank her and her daughter for their service. She too got honored.
Then staffs were talking to the guests and we walked to our school land and prayed that there must be the school building by next annual day. Then we all took grand lunch served in Mani’s home. The chief guests left to Erode city by 3.30 P.M.
THE GREAT DONATION BY MY CLASS MATES:
The chief guests collected money from few of my school friends who are serving the nation from their own profession. He has donated Rs.17, 000 for purchasing Montessori materials. We thank them. So we thank God for making this great day of effort as a grand and depth day which is the real honor to Dr.Montessori and Mahathma Gandhiji.
Thankyou all!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Namma Veedu Montessori HOC-Annual Festival 2007-8,day2 and 3
FIRST ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF NAMMA VEEDU MONTESSORI HOC- 2007-2008, DAYS 2 and 3.
22.12.08- Today we have started the day with regular chanting and we waited for the parents to arrive for the story telling session. But we have received only 3 parents. Saravanan’s mother came and said a story for one minute and Mishal’s father narrated the legend of Christ using the crib. Our previous helper Mrs.Ponnammal who is around 65 years old arrived and narrated a long story about equality.
So it is clear that even villagers are not familiar with story telling in these modern days because of the television. We felt sorry for this situation. So I have made it is a compulsory rule that every day after chanting one teacher must narrate a traditional Indian story.
· After that we left for the annual report plans.
· We thank our helper Jothy akka’s daughter Sangeetha who has brought basket full of marigold flowers for garland making. Teachers sat till 7 P.M and made wonderful bouquet.
· On this day Miss.Selvi left to Dindukal town and purchased few lamps for gift and many cotton kaadhi towels for garland making and gift.
23.12.08- I left to Erode city because my aunty passed away and came back to Sendurai by 10 P.M. It was a very tedious journey for 12 hours. Many parents have given their paintings to HOC on this day. The topic is ‘’NATURE’’. Saravanan’s father drew his picture on 21st itself because he has to go for the job. We respect such parents who have started taking interest in their children.
24.12.08- Our HOC was functioning fastly and children were given leave today. We have cleaned every thing and last hour checking has been done. I was very upset with the maintenance of the jewel set boxes and I was little bit harsh with my staff for that for the very first time. I have explained the efforts and money used for buying them.
We all decorated the HOC with mango leaves and coconut leaves and arranged all the required things in order. Teachers practiced the various formalities and we left soon for the day.
Thanking you!
22.12.08- Today we have started the day with regular chanting and we waited for the parents to arrive for the story telling session. But we have received only 3 parents. Saravanan’s mother came and said a story for one minute and Mishal’s father narrated the legend of Christ using the crib. Our previous helper Mrs.Ponnammal who is around 65 years old arrived and narrated a long story about equality.
So it is clear that even villagers are not familiar with story telling in these modern days because of the television. We felt sorry for this situation. So I have made it is a compulsory rule that every day after chanting one teacher must narrate a traditional Indian story.
· After that we left for the annual report plans.
· We thank our helper Jothy akka’s daughter Sangeetha who has brought basket full of marigold flowers for garland making. Teachers sat till 7 P.M and made wonderful bouquet.
· On this day Miss.Selvi left to Dindukal town and purchased few lamps for gift and many cotton kaadhi towels for garland making and gift.
23.12.08- I left to Erode city because my aunty passed away and came back to Sendurai by 10 P.M. It was a very tedious journey for 12 hours. Many parents have given their paintings to HOC on this day. The topic is ‘’NATURE’’. Saravanan’s father drew his picture on 21st itself because he has to go for the job. We respect such parents who have started taking interest in their children.
24.12.08- Our HOC was functioning fastly and children were given leave today. We have cleaned every thing and last hour checking has been done. I was very upset with the maintenance of the jewel set boxes and I was little bit harsh with my staff for that for the very first time. I have explained the efforts and money used for buying them.
We all decorated the HOC with mango leaves and coconut leaves and arranged all the required things in order. Teachers practiced the various formalities and we left soon for the day.
Thanking you!
Namma Veedu Montessori HOC-Main Events Of Dec,08
EVENTS OF DECEMBER -2008
This month is going to be very exciting for us because we are going to step into the second year of service. So slowly our HOC is getting ready for that. Mean while we got a new child Master.Andrews, 2 years old who has well settled within a day and waiting for admission.
We have given a small increment of Rs.250 to Miss.Mallika who is with us for 10 months and Miss. Sasikala for their work and development.
1.11.08-Mr.Jeyaraman has approached Mr.Mrs.Parthiban one of our parent for teaching faculty. Mrs.Kayalvizhi has trained for teaching faculty and got some experience in conventional school. She is very calm and deep analyzer. She is also a photographer along with her husband and taking part in all our HOC events. She made her 5 year old son to shift from a conventional school to the Montessori setup. So we believe that she will join with us for the next level growth. She has permanently settled in the village.
HOC has invited Dr.Kalaiselvi- Tamil professor – KVK arts college-Trichy as the chief guest on December 25th-2008. We will talk about her later.
THE CHALLENGING DANGER- Today Rajasree was badly hurted when Swetha ran towards her to show a hug and smile. Immediately the issue was announced to the parents. But Rajasree’s mother has spoken very ill about the HOC and all the staff. But according to the spiritual lessons they were quiet and explained the situation, but she ignored them. Our auto was used to take the child to the hospital. Medication was given. There were few stitches with dressing. Mani’s mother went and spoke to the parents. We have decided to ask excuse but we are going to tell in the open meeting about teachers’ abuse by parents. This child’s mother has repeated the verbal abuse 3rd time in this year. But we need to learn one important lesson.
‘’ It is common for such accidents in a school with many children, but it is not good in a small school like us. We need to be more aware about the happenings.’’
4.12.08- NATURE WALK. The school has gone out for the nature walk. Children have conversed many things and we are listing very unique observations as follows. They saw the village wells, grass lands, hens, bulls and cows. They saw an eagle gliding across a pond. They saw dragon flies, crows, cranes, palms, butterflies and many things.
1. Sudeesh was able to tell the following English terms. Crows, cocks, hens, chickens, butterflies, eagles, dragonflies and trees.
2. Saravanan saw a snake and alerted the staff to go away.
3. Ravikumar pointed out a hut with the term ‘’home’’ and put a worm with a stick.
4. After the walk every body involved in a long chat and discussed about the nature walk. Madhumitha and Swetha started narrating the walk as a story.
6.12.08- We have purchased the X- Mas Crib for HOC from Madras Bessant Nagar Church shop. We have also purchased few nice decorative items. So after the lamp festival we will be presenting the legend of Jesus Christ to our children. On 21st of this month we are having the Christmas celebrations with the carols from local church group. Mishal’s parents have agreed for the arrangement.
Mean while we are preparing for the Thirukaarthigai lamp festival. Teachers are presenting the myth behind the festival with respective dolls and craft work made by them. On 13.12.08 our Lord will be taken for procession inside the village. On that occasion few of our students will be appearing as mythological characters and talk about them.
5.12.08- We have designed and printed the very first certificates of appreciation of children in our HOC in Madras. We have also edited and printed the simple version of Dr. Montessori system which is getting followed in our HOC as simple book lets. This will issued along with the certificates on 25th December by our chief guest.
Our chief guest has expressed that she could not attend the festival on 25.12.08 because of a genuine reason. So we have hunted for an other chief guest. We got THEM.
They are Mr.ARULBAAJALI and Ms.KAVITHA. Their children Lakshitha and Harshavardhini are Montessori children.
Mr.Arulbaalaji is Dr.M.Madeswaran’s school mate. He was very naughty and only son in a rich business family in Erode. His jokes, class room behaviors were well known and made many to laugh and enjoy the friendship. He is very keen about the association of his class mates after schooling from 1991.
He got graduated in pharmacy and completed his MBA program and worked as lecturer in a pharmacy college in Madras. He is the author of a text book in pharmacy and today he is the Marketing Director of a good pharmacy group in Madras.
He stood as the best support for us when Mrs.Amudha wanted to begin her Montessori HOC in her village in 2006. He has listened to most of our lectures and always approaches us for any guidance in child care.
After facing many difficulties he has put his elder daughter in Viruksha Montessori HOC in Madras. After observing the various aspects within his child he has supported his wife also to undergo the Montessori training under SriUma Shankarji. Today she is working in Sprouts Montessori HOC –Madras.
The couple is very much interested in Montessori system and they are eligible for the Annual Day celebrations as chief guests.
11.12.08- HOC has celebrated the famous THIRUKAARTHIGAI lamp festival after 15 days celebrations of legend presentation through models. Usha amma has cooked sundala nd traditional poojas were performed.
12.12.08- Today is Thirukaarthigai festival. HOC is on leave and Usha amma has decorated the building with row of lamps.
13.12.08- Today before starting the Thirukaathigai festival we made the Lord to get bath by our 3 children. Saravanan, Balamithrana and Chandrakumar were performing the sacred bath and chanted all the prayer chantings. Today we are celebrating the Thirukaarthigai festival through our school. The school got decorated by our staff as usual in traditional way. By noon 3.3.P.M, the local elders who perform the chants and holy songs arrived and started their bajans.
Our very first fancy dress day:
Our parents have also arrived promptly arrived for make upping their children as Murugan and Kaarthigai women. The staff and others were involved in this activity. The school has supported them with jewels and makeup set.
It is very nice to see the parents’ cooperation and enthusiasm in making the children to involve in this festival. Most of them have recognized their child’s very first fancy dress occasion.
Teachers have also trained these children to act and talk their roles. Every child looked very cute and divine with the costumes and make ups. Few of them also tried their best and narrated their dialogues. Many were tensed and cried and we gave them the space to settle down and told the parents not to expect their children to act or perform immediately before the public because this is their very first occasion. We asked the staff and parents to observe and appreciate their children when they were doing their role at home or in the school. Only the smartness, boldness to bare the costumes and makeup and trail activity in talking the dialogue can be appreciated and encouraged.
All those who got decorated stood happily and took individual and group photos. Few spoke their dialogues also. The jewels we have bought for Murugan have made these little ones to become very divine. Afterwards they have joined with the procession also. They were courageous to come along with us in the costume and play and also to travel in the auto till the festival spot.
Children who participated in this occasion:
1. N. Saravanan.
2. SreeDiwakar. [ is a 2 year old boy. His mother is working in a different place. She visits him rarely. So she has taken very special efforts to make him enjoy the day. But he was very tensed that his mother may leave him]
3. S.NaveenKanna.
4. N.Ravikumar.
5. P.Balamithran.
6. R.Samidurai.[ a child from very poor , illiterate family got the courage to stand before all]
7. G.Swetha. [ Swetha’s father Mr.Ganesh took the photos on this occasion]
8. K.Madhumitha.
9. S.Divyadarshini.
10. M.Dharani.
The happy procession:
We started the procession by 4.30 P.M and the traditional village drum set from the near by town [ MANAPAARAI] was going on performing very well and made the village in festival mood. Though the artists were so poor, they were very staunch and dedicated to their performance and enjoyed the procession and praised the lord. After the festival , they were paid with Rs.1500 and garlands and prasadham set.
Mr.Balamurugan from Pondycheri, Jeyaraman, Mrs.Shanthi madam’s husband, Saravan’s father, Naveen’s father Mr.Saravanan and many others have joined with the lord. Mr.Ganeshkumar has joined with his wife and child from Pongaloor. Mr.Murugan, Master.Paani have also supported the festival. He only lifted the umbrella for Murugan. We went to the Vinayakar shrine and lighted the lamp first. Then we honored Kurathi amman with a lamp and proceeded to Mahalaxmi amman shrine. Poojas were performed to Devi and one lamp got lighted inside the shrine and 6 other lamps at the entrance.
We spoke about the importance of caring out father and mother. We told that Murugan himself is showing by respecting his parents. The silver pendant of Shivasakthi was exposed and people saw that also. Then we narrated the legend of ADI MUDI THAEDAL from Shivapuranam.
People enjoyed the show and many old people gathered very near to Lord and prayed. Later the bajan group members were honored with green towels and Mani’s father and Dr.Madeswaran were also honored by the shrine.
Then the lord started back to HOC. This time many devotees have gathered and gave warm welcome to their God. By 8 P.M, we reached the HOC. Individual respects were shown to devotees who supported the festival and they all left. Then we cleaned the HOC and did night poojas to Lord and made them to sleep. We all went and slept in Mani’s house after a long dinner.
We thank Mrs.Usha for preparing such a delicious food for noon and night. She too has prepeared the sundal prasadam for us. We have listed out the committee members names and made Mr.Balamurugana s the president.
We also appreciate Mr.Kaarthi for coming all over from Thirupur. He will be the local president. We are thanking every body who has made the festival as the most successful one.
We thank Mani’s parents, Mr.Gopi[local priest] and all elders.
Important observations:
1. Many devotees have responded this time.
2. Village elders have stretched their good support.
3. Many families have set up warm traditional welcome while the procession was going on.
4. But very few only gave oil.
5. Many children, old people, diseased people watched the procession.
6. People observed the rituals and listened the drama and story calmly.
7. A poor boy came all along the procession and finally we gave few sets of dress.
8. The poor drum set artist was offered with a new dothy.
9. Mr.Kumaran[ our important member] could not arrive because of his health.
14.12.08- Today village elders came to meet us by 10 A.M. They have requested for the Murugan idol to get placed in the center of the village where the previous temple got ruined. Mr.Jeyaraman and Dr.Madeswaran.M were talking in the important meeting.
Minutes of the meeting:
1. Murugan idol was asked for the common temple in the village.
2. Village will construct and care the shrine.
3. Sakthi foundation will perform all its needs from that shrine.
4. But what Sakthi foundation answered after talking to Dr.Pradheepkumar?
· We brought the idol just for the personal use within the school to teach the spirituality and culture for the children
· The foundation has explained the role of HOC in shaping out the 25 children and the elders have appreciated that.
· We said that our spiritual teacher SreeAmrithaanandhamaye amma have directed us to bring out the God for the village public through the festivals.
· We have planned for the school building along with temple which will be opened for the villagers without any discrimination.
· This was realized by the elders and they accepted for this plan and assured for their total cooperation for all occasions. We made them to realize for the poor maintenance of the old temple.
· They have requested to support them financially to paint the Mahalaxmi amman shrine and to install a stone idol of the goddess also.
· We have asked them to give a letter to Dr.Pradheepkumar along with the quotation for painting.
Later we conducted the HOC staff meeting. The minutes are as follows:
1. We read the book published by the HOC to guide the staff and parents about the system and school.
2. Certificate work got discussed.
3. Chief Guest was introduced to our staff and they asked many questions.
4. Saravan’s latest behavior patterns were discussed.
5. His mother was called and advised for better family conduct.
6. We too spoke to Rajashree’s mother for the accident.
7. We have planned the 2009 first term events and holidays.
8. We have planned Christmas festival plan also.
9. Christmas decoration set was given to the school.
10. Miss.Sasikala and Mrs.PriyaKannan can come at 9A.M alternatively.
11. The work before the annual day was planned for the staff and they have to carry over it.
12. Miss.Kalaivaani was met by Dr.Madeswaran in the morning. She has shared that the teacher training is very easy for her because she is well familiarized with Montessori system. She has accepted to attend the Annual Day celebrations.
13. Miss.Panju came to the HOC for teaching job. She has done a diploma in agriculture and we have asked Jeyaraman to follow her.
The HOC has celebrated the following children’s’ birth days.
1. J.Andrews Martin- 12.12.08
2. S.Naveenkanna- 20.12.08
3. P.Balamithran- 29.12.08
4. G.RenukaDevi- 14.12.08- She is Mr.Ganeskumar’s daughter who has visited us for the festival. On this day we offered a cake and asked her to give chocolates to all our children. The school gifted her with a crayon set from USA and also gave her a greeting with Montessori’s saying. She liked one of the stuff toy and we too gave it to her. Saravanan was there in this context and we made him to greet her and give away the gifts.
5. Danush- 24.12.08
From 21st to 25th we have celebrated the annual school festival and please read the next article for the details.
Thankyou!
This month is going to be very exciting for us because we are going to step into the second year of service. So slowly our HOC is getting ready for that. Mean while we got a new child Master.Andrews, 2 years old who has well settled within a day and waiting for admission.
We have given a small increment of Rs.250 to Miss.Mallika who is with us for 10 months and Miss. Sasikala for their work and development.
1.11.08-Mr.Jeyaraman has approached Mr.Mrs.Parthiban one of our parent for teaching faculty. Mrs.Kayalvizhi has trained for teaching faculty and got some experience in conventional school. She is very calm and deep analyzer. She is also a photographer along with her husband and taking part in all our HOC events. She made her 5 year old son to shift from a conventional school to the Montessori setup. So we believe that she will join with us for the next level growth. She has permanently settled in the village.
HOC has invited Dr.Kalaiselvi- Tamil professor – KVK arts college-Trichy as the chief guest on December 25th-2008. We will talk about her later.
THE CHALLENGING DANGER- Today Rajasree was badly hurted when Swetha ran towards her to show a hug and smile. Immediately the issue was announced to the parents. But Rajasree’s mother has spoken very ill about the HOC and all the staff. But according to the spiritual lessons they were quiet and explained the situation, but she ignored them. Our auto was used to take the child to the hospital. Medication was given. There were few stitches with dressing. Mani’s mother went and spoke to the parents. We have decided to ask excuse but we are going to tell in the open meeting about teachers’ abuse by parents. This child’s mother has repeated the verbal abuse 3rd time in this year. But we need to learn one important lesson.
‘’ It is common for such accidents in a school with many children, but it is not good in a small school like us. We need to be more aware about the happenings.’’
4.12.08- NATURE WALK. The school has gone out for the nature walk. Children have conversed many things and we are listing very unique observations as follows. They saw the village wells, grass lands, hens, bulls and cows. They saw an eagle gliding across a pond. They saw dragon flies, crows, cranes, palms, butterflies and many things.
1. Sudeesh was able to tell the following English terms. Crows, cocks, hens, chickens, butterflies, eagles, dragonflies and trees.
2. Saravanan saw a snake and alerted the staff to go away.
3. Ravikumar pointed out a hut with the term ‘’home’’ and put a worm with a stick.
4. After the walk every body involved in a long chat and discussed about the nature walk. Madhumitha and Swetha started narrating the walk as a story.
6.12.08- We have purchased the X- Mas Crib for HOC from Madras Bessant Nagar Church shop. We have also purchased few nice decorative items. So after the lamp festival we will be presenting the legend of Jesus Christ to our children. On 21st of this month we are having the Christmas celebrations with the carols from local church group. Mishal’s parents have agreed for the arrangement.
Mean while we are preparing for the Thirukaarthigai lamp festival. Teachers are presenting the myth behind the festival with respective dolls and craft work made by them. On 13.12.08 our Lord will be taken for procession inside the village. On that occasion few of our students will be appearing as mythological characters and talk about them.
5.12.08- We have designed and printed the very first certificates of appreciation of children in our HOC in Madras. We have also edited and printed the simple version of Dr. Montessori system which is getting followed in our HOC as simple book lets. This will issued along with the certificates on 25th December by our chief guest.
Our chief guest has expressed that she could not attend the festival on 25.12.08 because of a genuine reason. So we have hunted for an other chief guest. We got THEM.
They are Mr.ARULBAAJALI and Ms.KAVITHA. Their children Lakshitha and Harshavardhini are Montessori children.
Mr.Arulbaalaji is Dr.M.Madeswaran’s school mate. He was very naughty and only son in a rich business family in Erode. His jokes, class room behaviors were well known and made many to laugh and enjoy the friendship. He is very keen about the association of his class mates after schooling from 1991.
He got graduated in pharmacy and completed his MBA program and worked as lecturer in a pharmacy college in Madras. He is the author of a text book in pharmacy and today he is the Marketing Director of a good pharmacy group in Madras.
He stood as the best support for us when Mrs.Amudha wanted to begin her Montessori HOC in her village in 2006. He has listened to most of our lectures and always approaches us for any guidance in child care.
After facing many difficulties he has put his elder daughter in Viruksha Montessori HOC in Madras. After observing the various aspects within his child he has supported his wife also to undergo the Montessori training under SriUma Shankarji. Today she is working in Sprouts Montessori HOC –Madras.
The couple is very much interested in Montessori system and they are eligible for the Annual Day celebrations as chief guests.
11.12.08- HOC has celebrated the famous THIRUKAARTHIGAI lamp festival after 15 days celebrations of legend presentation through models. Usha amma has cooked sundala nd traditional poojas were performed.
12.12.08- Today is Thirukaarthigai festival. HOC is on leave and Usha amma has decorated the building with row of lamps.
13.12.08- Today before starting the Thirukaathigai festival we made the Lord to get bath by our 3 children. Saravanan, Balamithrana and Chandrakumar were performing the sacred bath and chanted all the prayer chantings. Today we are celebrating the Thirukaarthigai festival through our school. The school got decorated by our staff as usual in traditional way. By noon 3.3.P.M, the local elders who perform the chants and holy songs arrived and started their bajans.
Our very first fancy dress day:
Our parents have also arrived promptly arrived for make upping their children as Murugan and Kaarthigai women. The staff and others were involved in this activity. The school has supported them with jewels and makeup set.
It is very nice to see the parents’ cooperation and enthusiasm in making the children to involve in this festival. Most of them have recognized their child’s very first fancy dress occasion.
Teachers have also trained these children to act and talk their roles. Every child looked very cute and divine with the costumes and make ups. Few of them also tried their best and narrated their dialogues. Many were tensed and cried and we gave them the space to settle down and told the parents not to expect their children to act or perform immediately before the public because this is their very first occasion. We asked the staff and parents to observe and appreciate their children when they were doing their role at home or in the school. Only the smartness, boldness to bare the costumes and makeup and trail activity in talking the dialogue can be appreciated and encouraged.
All those who got decorated stood happily and took individual and group photos. Few spoke their dialogues also. The jewels we have bought for Murugan have made these little ones to become very divine. Afterwards they have joined with the procession also. They were courageous to come along with us in the costume and play and also to travel in the auto till the festival spot.
Children who participated in this occasion:
1. N. Saravanan.
2. SreeDiwakar. [ is a 2 year old boy. His mother is working in a different place. She visits him rarely. So she has taken very special efforts to make him enjoy the day. But he was very tensed that his mother may leave him]
3. S.NaveenKanna.
4. N.Ravikumar.
5. P.Balamithran.
6. R.Samidurai.[ a child from very poor , illiterate family got the courage to stand before all]
7. G.Swetha. [ Swetha’s father Mr.Ganesh took the photos on this occasion]
8. K.Madhumitha.
9. S.Divyadarshini.
10. M.Dharani.
The happy procession:
We started the procession by 4.30 P.M and the traditional village drum set from the near by town [ MANAPAARAI] was going on performing very well and made the village in festival mood. Though the artists were so poor, they were very staunch and dedicated to their performance and enjoyed the procession and praised the lord. After the festival , they were paid with Rs.1500 and garlands and prasadham set.
Mr.Balamurugan from Pondycheri, Jeyaraman, Mrs.Shanthi madam’s husband, Saravan’s father, Naveen’s father Mr.Saravanan and many others have joined with the lord. Mr.Ganeshkumar has joined with his wife and child from Pongaloor. Mr.Murugan, Master.Paani have also supported the festival. He only lifted the umbrella for Murugan. We went to the Vinayakar shrine and lighted the lamp first. Then we honored Kurathi amman with a lamp and proceeded to Mahalaxmi amman shrine. Poojas were performed to Devi and one lamp got lighted inside the shrine and 6 other lamps at the entrance.
We spoke about the importance of caring out father and mother. We told that Murugan himself is showing by respecting his parents. The silver pendant of Shivasakthi was exposed and people saw that also. Then we narrated the legend of ADI MUDI THAEDAL from Shivapuranam.
People enjoyed the show and many old people gathered very near to Lord and prayed. Later the bajan group members were honored with green towels and Mani’s father and Dr.Madeswaran were also honored by the shrine.
Then the lord started back to HOC. This time many devotees have gathered and gave warm welcome to their God. By 8 P.M, we reached the HOC. Individual respects were shown to devotees who supported the festival and they all left. Then we cleaned the HOC and did night poojas to Lord and made them to sleep. We all went and slept in Mani’s house after a long dinner.
We thank Mrs.Usha for preparing such a delicious food for noon and night. She too has prepeared the sundal prasadam for us. We have listed out the committee members names and made Mr.Balamurugana s the president.
We also appreciate Mr.Kaarthi for coming all over from Thirupur. He will be the local president. We are thanking every body who has made the festival as the most successful one.
We thank Mani’s parents, Mr.Gopi[local priest] and all elders.
Important observations:
1. Many devotees have responded this time.
2. Village elders have stretched their good support.
3. Many families have set up warm traditional welcome while the procession was going on.
4. But very few only gave oil.
5. Many children, old people, diseased people watched the procession.
6. People observed the rituals and listened the drama and story calmly.
7. A poor boy came all along the procession and finally we gave few sets of dress.
8. The poor drum set artist was offered with a new dothy.
9. Mr.Kumaran[ our important member] could not arrive because of his health.
14.12.08- Today village elders came to meet us by 10 A.M. They have requested for the Murugan idol to get placed in the center of the village where the previous temple got ruined. Mr.Jeyaraman and Dr.Madeswaran.M were talking in the important meeting.
Minutes of the meeting:
1. Murugan idol was asked for the common temple in the village.
2. Village will construct and care the shrine.
3. Sakthi foundation will perform all its needs from that shrine.
4. But what Sakthi foundation answered after talking to Dr.Pradheepkumar?
· We brought the idol just for the personal use within the school to teach the spirituality and culture for the children
· The foundation has explained the role of HOC in shaping out the 25 children and the elders have appreciated that.
· We said that our spiritual teacher SreeAmrithaanandhamaye amma have directed us to bring out the God for the village public through the festivals.
· We have planned for the school building along with temple which will be opened for the villagers without any discrimination.
· This was realized by the elders and they accepted for this plan and assured for their total cooperation for all occasions. We made them to realize for the poor maintenance of the old temple.
· They have requested to support them financially to paint the Mahalaxmi amman shrine and to install a stone idol of the goddess also.
· We have asked them to give a letter to Dr.Pradheepkumar along with the quotation for painting.
Later we conducted the HOC staff meeting. The minutes are as follows:
1. We read the book published by the HOC to guide the staff and parents about the system and school.
2. Certificate work got discussed.
3. Chief Guest was introduced to our staff and they asked many questions.
4. Saravan’s latest behavior patterns were discussed.
5. His mother was called and advised for better family conduct.
6. We too spoke to Rajashree’s mother for the accident.
7. We have planned the 2009 first term events and holidays.
8. We have planned Christmas festival plan also.
9. Christmas decoration set was given to the school.
10. Miss.Sasikala and Mrs.PriyaKannan can come at 9A.M alternatively.
11. The work before the annual day was planned for the staff and they have to carry over it.
12. Miss.Kalaivaani was met by Dr.Madeswaran in the morning. She has shared that the teacher training is very easy for her because she is well familiarized with Montessori system. She has accepted to attend the Annual Day celebrations.
13. Miss.Panju came to the HOC for teaching job. She has done a diploma in agriculture and we have asked Jeyaraman to follow her.
The HOC has celebrated the following children’s’ birth days.
1. J.Andrews Martin- 12.12.08
2. S.Naveenkanna- 20.12.08
3. P.Balamithran- 29.12.08
4. G.RenukaDevi- 14.12.08- She is Mr.Ganeskumar’s daughter who has visited us for the festival. On this day we offered a cake and asked her to give chocolates to all our children. The school gifted her with a crayon set from USA and also gave her a greeting with Montessori’s saying. She liked one of the stuff toy and we too gave it to her. Saravanan was there in this context and we made him to greet her and give away the gifts.
5. Danush- 24.12.08
From 21st to 25th we have celebrated the annual school festival and please read the next article for the details.
Thankyou!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Namma Veedu teachers comments-Miss.Bodhini
WHERE AM I?
This article is the translated and edited part of the review given by Miss.Bodhini working in Namma Veedu Montessori House Of Children at the 100th day. She is a graduate with basic teacher training. We feel very proud of her excellent understanding about Montessori system and implementing in the village.
Miss.Bodhini says,
‘’ I have developed more patience and learned that we must not expect any result from the child immediately, we are just making them to experience the various concepts of various subjects.
But I am sure that these children will express their growth in knowledge and personality. I am learning more from the children that I teach them. At the age of 24 I have learned to shed my ego and trying my best to become a child.
Before I give any value first I am checking myself whether I have that character.
I have started and accepted that children have their own mind and life.
I am getting trained how to be a good mother in future.
Montessori system has changed me and the children in many levels. The system is giving more importance to a child’s psychic level. I want every child in this earth to be in a Montessori school. I am in a position to dedicate to uplift the child’s life through this education which is a gift for my nation.
Montessori materials are not just attractive things. I have experienced that the children are trained to coordinate their mind – body and thoughts.
The materials are initiating and shaping their interests and talents.
I have clearly understood that a school is not just a room to teach subjects. Books alone are not children’s need.
A teacher’s every action has its own influence upon the children.
Through love and firmness alone we can cultivate the inner discipline.
I have evolved to look beauty in every thing and great in carnations like Teressa and Gandhi within all.
I have realized that education has its own dimensions and it is not just making a child to read and write subjects.
Montessori system has made me realize the real meaning for discipline and education.’’
This article is the translated and edited part of the review given by Miss.Bodhini working in Namma Veedu Montessori House Of Children at the 100th day. She is a graduate with basic teacher training. We feel very proud of her excellent understanding about Montessori system and implementing in the village.
Miss.Bodhini says,
‘’ I have developed more patience and learned that we must not expect any result from the child immediately, we are just making them to experience the various concepts of various subjects.
But I am sure that these children will express their growth in knowledge and personality. I am learning more from the children that I teach them. At the age of 24 I have learned to shed my ego and trying my best to become a child.
Before I give any value first I am checking myself whether I have that character.
I have started and accepted that children have their own mind and life.
I am getting trained how to be a good mother in future.
Montessori system has changed me and the children in many levels. The system is giving more importance to a child’s psychic level. I want every child in this earth to be in a Montessori school. I am in a position to dedicate to uplift the child’s life through this education which is a gift for my nation.
Montessori materials are not just attractive things. I have experienced that the children are trained to coordinate their mind – body and thoughts.
The materials are initiating and shaping their interests and talents.
I have clearly understood that a school is not just a room to teach subjects. Books alone are not children’s need.
A teacher’s every action has its own influence upon the children.
Through love and firmness alone we can cultivate the inner discipline.
I have evolved to look beauty in every thing and great in carnations like Teressa and Gandhi within all.
I have realized that education has its own dimensions and it is not just making a child to read and write subjects.
Montessori system has made me realize the real meaning for discipline and education.’’
Namma Veedu teachers comments-Miss.Mallika
Where am I?
Miss. Mallika is sharing her review about her experiences on the 100th day in our school. She comes form a very under developed back ground of the village with basic schooling, but she has accepted the system and concentrates in certain areas of the curiculum and performs well.
‘’ It is beautiful home for very young children. Montessori materials are very attractive. They are placed in such a way any one can take and use them. The way these children sit on mats and work looks different.
We are just observing their work. EPL activities are very interesting and useful. The children are enjoying the freedom to touch the materials and choose the work. They can express their own feelings to me without any fear.
Montessori materials are giving the chance to touch and feel. The materials are making the children to concentrate more. Body care and hygiene are very important in this school. The best punishment is to make the child without any work.
Children are feeling for their mistakes and they are now exposed to English language and getting used to them slowly.
Love and care is the tool to tame and cultivate the discipline in a child.
Children are choosing their work according to their age and needs.
Each material is connected with language and math skill.
Children are taught to do exercise and trained to care their body and mind.
Children are sharing things and creating natural healthy peer group.
Children have learned to talk politely with respect to all people.
They feel empathy for others.
They are becoming more adjustable and caretaking each other.
I have learned how to bring up a baby from 1.5 years as a mother.
I have learned to shed my ego before children and making love as the instrument to train them.’’
Miss. Mallika is sharing her review about her experiences on the 100th day in our school. She comes form a very under developed back ground of the village with basic schooling, but she has accepted the system and concentrates in certain areas of the curiculum and performs well.
‘’ It is beautiful home for very young children. Montessori materials are very attractive. They are placed in such a way any one can take and use them. The way these children sit on mats and work looks different.
We are just observing their work. EPL activities are very interesting and useful. The children are enjoying the freedom to touch the materials and choose the work. They can express their own feelings to me without any fear.
Montessori materials are giving the chance to touch and feel. The materials are making the children to concentrate more. Body care and hygiene are very important in this school. The best punishment is to make the child without any work.
Children are feeling for their mistakes and they are now exposed to English language and getting used to them slowly.
Love and care is the tool to tame and cultivate the discipline in a child.
Children are choosing their work according to their age and needs.
Each material is connected with language and math skill.
Children are taught to do exercise and trained to care their body and mind.
Children are sharing things and creating natural healthy peer group.
Children have learned to talk politely with respect to all people.
They feel empathy for others.
They are becoming more adjustable and caretaking each other.
I have learned how to bring up a baby from 1.5 years as a mother.
I have learned to shed my ego before children and making love as the instrument to train them.’’
Namma Veedu teachers comments-Miss.Kalaivani
Miss.Kalaivani is our very first teacher. She says,
‘’ I have started respected children not for their physical size but for their intellect. I have understood the needs of a 2.5 year old human. I have realized that there is a need and interest within each child.
Mind is always in concerned with body. Montessori materials are helping these 2 aspects to coordinate to develop a child.
A child must be brought up based on the natural surrounding in which he is living.My friends are saying that I have changed a lot. I am trying to touch the soul of each child through Montessori system.''
‘’ I have started respected children not for their physical size but for their intellect. I have understood the needs of a 2.5 year old human. I have realized that there is a need and interest within each child.
Mind is always in concerned with body. Montessori materials are helping these 2 aspects to coordinate to develop a child.
A child must be brought up based on the natural surrounding in which he is living.My friends are saying that I have changed a lot. I am trying to touch the soul of each child through Montessori system.''
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Events Of October -2008
IMPORTANT EVENTS OF NAMMA VEEDU MONTESSORI HOC – OCTOBER 2008
3O.9.08- HOC has spent 5 solid hours to set up the Navarathry Golu to celebrate the 10 days grand festival. This is the festival in India to celebrate the end of all evils as great demons who were killed by the eternal power ‘’THE DIVINE MOTHER’’.
What is golu?
Golu is the arrangement of various clay dolls on steps based on Indian mythology which clearly explains the concept of life and various concepts of spirituality. This festival lasts for 10 days during which children and adults gets the chance to express their talents and appreciate the aesthetic sense in all actions.
We have arranged dolls in 5 steps and teachers are welcoming the villagers as guests.
We are also planning for parent’s competitions, mother worship and teachers worship. Usually in India many new schools admit the beginners on the 10th day of the festival.
Today teachers performed the morning rituals to the DIVINE MOTHER and enjoyed the ‘’doll marriage’’ festival. Mean while we have also went for canvassing for new admissions. This article will be further sharing about various exciting events and incidents which is going to happen on these 10 days. Let us wait for the fun……..
2.10.08- Today we came to know that Miss.Kalaivani who has joined with us also is going to continue her higher education and she is leaving us. We are in need of good facilitators in HOC like Miss.Kalaivani and Miss.Bodhini. We are hunting for a very good person who can first show the real motherliness and care then the Montessori Method. Let us wait. I need to study really the situation of other 3 staff members. They are also good in conducting the HOC. But they need to imbibe the system soon and more. Yes! It is not easy to have a Montessori HOC in a village like this.
4.9.08- PARENTS TEACHERS MEETING. We started the meeting sharply at 9.30 A.M. There were only 8 parents representing the group. The agenda was as follows with the minutes of the meeting.
· All the teachers were there.
· Dr.Madeswaran and Mrs.Dhanam was the chair person.
· We gave a warm welcome.
· We explained why it is important to attend any meeting or occasion in a school for a parent.
· ‘’a child will neglect a mother who could not recognize the child’s work and timing’’. This was the message to all the parents.
· We were planning to have a parents committee to represent and work for the various needs of the HOC.
· ‘’The school is not an institution, but it is a social well fare unit in the tiny village for the up liftment of the people from the child hood. This has to be realized through our freedom given in HOC.’’
· The annual budget was explained especially about the source of income to SAKTHI FOUNDATION through Dr.Pradheepkumar.
· The fees income was also put before the parents.
· The need for the expense, need to realize the fees structure though it is based on charity were explained.
· Transportation facility and its cost were discussed.
· Observation for the parents was announced.
· Need for child observation was explained.
· The HOC requested the parents to approach the adults to know about the activities of their children and not to talk ill about the school outside without understanding the concept behind the system.
· HOC has welcomed parents for a next meeting to plan the annual day celebrations.
· A simple explanation was given about English teaching and home work pattern was also explained.
· The history of writing within a child was explained.
· Miss.Kalaivani and Miss.Bodhini were facilitated by all of us for their beloved and commitment.
THE SACREDMOST MOMENTS – MATHRU POOJA
After a short break we did the ‘’mathru pooja’’. We explained the need and meaning behind worshipping our parents and elders and why we are touching the feet of a person for blessing.
Children were taught how to perform the ritual to their mother. They were so excited and every child did the pooja perfectly with total concentration and love.
Many parents were in tears out of love and blessed their children with hugs and kisses. Few fathers attended the pooja and accepted the respectful moments from their children.
Then Navarathry pooja was performed by the teachers. Mrs.Shanthi chanted the 108 sacred names of Goddess Mahalaxmi and Maniamma offered the flowers. There was pin drop silence in the school. Later we relished the ‘’puliyodarai’’ dish prepared by Usha amma.
Few children left their parents but others just went to work. When the PTA meeting was happening, children went to an other room and worked for 1.5 hrs without any break.
This is the 5th day of Navarathry festival. Our HOC GOLU is so sweet to see with compact arrangement.
6.10.08- Mrs.Priya living in Sendurai village has joined for observation to become a teacher in our HOC. She is the classmate of Mr.Jeyaraman. Her husband is working as a catering technologist in Tamil Nadu hotels in Madurai. Her 1.75 year old boy is a immature child with many health problems. She has joined with us to show a good path of stress less education to her boy from this time and she is also very calm and peaceful in mind which is very essential for us.
9.10.08- first vijayadasami day in HOC: HOC has celebrated the final day of Navarathry festival with grand and spiritual sense.
· 3 new children got admitted in our HOC.
· Naveen- 1.75 years.
· Diwakar- 1.75 years.
· Darshini- 2 .75 years.[ she needs some special care to walk well]
· SPECIAL EVENTS OF THE DAY:
1. Children and trust have honored all the staff with special gifts.
2. Teachers have made children to write all the Tamil scripts and initiated the writing exercise. This is the traditional way of initiating a child on his very first day in a school on this day.
CHANCE FOR A GOOD TEACHER: From Vijayadasami day Mrs.Priya from the same village is coming for observation. She is also having a small child who is ready for the Montessori HOC.
She is observing all the activities of the HOC and also practicing all EPL activities from other staff members. The staff members are able to run the HOC with confidence in the absence of 2 experienced people. In the mean time one of the parents has talked ill about the staff for writing about the fees payment in the note book. The parent is also not happy with the system and spoke ill in the village. We are not emotional and we are asking them to come to us for any doubts, but they have never turned up even for a single meeting. The child’s father is a teacher in the government school.
We are having the PTA on Saturday and we are asking the parents to be ready for the observation week and orientation. Beyond that if they are unhappy, they will be asked to take away the child. The parent’s attitude towards the school and staff are making strong impact on the child and she is also expressing that in the school. Teachers feel very difficult to handle this particular child.
18.10.08- Toady we conducted PARENTS TEACHERS MEETING. Only 6 parents were there but they were very conscious about the PTA. The following topics were discussed as follows,
1. Parent must recognize their child actions and appreciate.
2. We have discussed about the events of Annual festival.
3. Kolam, Drawing, Story telling and Speech will be conducted.
4. Parents were asked to perform the various acts before their children so that their children will appreciate their parents’ skills.
5. Again annual budget was discussed and we have spoken of the transport expense. One of the parents was suggesting with a cheap auto. We need to wait and discuss about it.
6. Again we spoke about the CODE OF CONDUCT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL AND PARENTS.
7. We have requested the parents to come to the HOC for any clarification.
STAFF MEETING:
1. We spoke about the child observation and report making.
2. We have seen the discussed about the individual plans of every child.
3. Staff- parents communication.
4. Reema who has left the HOC need to collect the report.
5. Deepawali celebration and Skandha sasti celebration.
6. Grounding and independence.
7. Child’s attitude towards various issues of HOC.
8. Mrs.Priya was given the appointment letter. We are happy with her attitude towards the Montessori education. She says,
‘’ I thought that this place will be baby care centre, but now I have understood that It is the place where we care and shape a child with real love and intelligence.’’
9. Her 1.25 year old son is also very active and he too got admitted in the school. He is very much involved with the Montessori materials.
10.Mrs.Priya have the following characters which are good for HOC: She is very calm and quiet. She is also very keen in observing any thing and she clears her doubts immediately. She is also able to maintain the link between her son and other children in the HOC.
19.10.08- Today the children were on leave. We started the sessions at 9 A.M. First we spoke with Saravanan’s mother.
1. The character of the child is getting changed and he has to be guided.
2. The parents must be aware about his attitude and also about the help given by the foundation.
3. They cannot talk about the help outside of the HOC.
4. He will be helped only based on their cooperation.
5. New dress for Deepawali was given to the child with Rs.100 by my mother for Deepawali.
24.10.08- DEEPAWALI FESTIVAL.
Today we have celebrated Deepawali festival in HOC with divinity and simplicity. We are promoting the idea of traditions and culture but not the luxury. So we have made it as a point that we never spend too much of money in luxurious celebrations.
This year we are observing the RAMAYANA TRADITION. So teachers have presented the legend of SreeRama. We have shown the Ramayana cartoon movie few months back.
As usual the HOC building was decorated with flowers and mango leaves. Children and staff decorated the MARAPAACHI WOODEN DOLLS as SreeRama and Sitha Devi.
They imagined that they are welcoming back to Ayodhya and chanted the sacred name of Rama and made a small procession inside the HOC compound.
The idols were brought inside the prayer hall. They were placed on the altar and the legend was repeated. Then special rituals were done by staff and children to them.
Then the brass idol of Devi Annapoorani[ Goddess of food] was brought from the prayer altar and placed on a plate. Special sacred bath was given to idol with ghee, milk, honey, sandal paste, and saffron and turmeric water.
Then the importance of food, wastage of food was explained to the children. Big lamps were lighted and children recited the chants.
On 23rd staff and children cooked a traditional sweet and that was also offered to the Goddess. Lemon rice was cooked by Mrs.Usha and got offered to the goddess.
Later every body gathered and tasted the festival feast and greeted each other. HOC announced holidays for 5 days. But we are offering food to 3 poor children for 2 times on all days.
Now the HOC has to begin its preparation for SKANDHA SASTI FESTIVAL. This is one of the most important festivals of the state. It is to celebrate the success over the evils by Lord Murugan[native God].
Mean while the village has received heavy rains and even we announced a day holiday on 22.10.08. But I feel very proud to say that out staff conducted the HOC with children who are near to the school.
25.10.08- Mr.Ganesh’s father merged with the God today morning.HOC is praying for his soul’s peace.
29.10.08- HOC has opened after 5 days of Deepawali holidays. Children were excited to come back and they got settled soon. From today we have started preparing the HOC to celebrate the grand SKANDHA SASTI POOJA.
Every day Mrs.Shanthi is performing the poojas to Lord Murugan in our school house and dramatizing the mythology of Muruga.
Today they have gone out for a nature walk to observe the village pond filled with pure fresh water after heavy rainfall.
HOC prayed for the health and wealth of Dr.PradheepKumar, for his birthday.
Thankyou!
3O.9.08- HOC has spent 5 solid hours to set up the Navarathry Golu to celebrate the 10 days grand festival. This is the festival in India to celebrate the end of all evils as great demons who were killed by the eternal power ‘’THE DIVINE MOTHER’’.
What is golu?
Golu is the arrangement of various clay dolls on steps based on Indian mythology which clearly explains the concept of life and various concepts of spirituality. This festival lasts for 10 days during which children and adults gets the chance to express their talents and appreciate the aesthetic sense in all actions.
We have arranged dolls in 5 steps and teachers are welcoming the villagers as guests.
We are also planning for parent’s competitions, mother worship and teachers worship. Usually in India many new schools admit the beginners on the 10th day of the festival.
Today teachers performed the morning rituals to the DIVINE MOTHER and enjoyed the ‘’doll marriage’’ festival. Mean while we have also went for canvassing for new admissions. This article will be further sharing about various exciting events and incidents which is going to happen on these 10 days. Let us wait for the fun……..
2.10.08- Today we came to know that Miss.Kalaivani who has joined with us also is going to continue her higher education and she is leaving us. We are in need of good facilitators in HOC like Miss.Kalaivani and Miss.Bodhini. We are hunting for a very good person who can first show the real motherliness and care then the Montessori Method. Let us wait. I need to study really the situation of other 3 staff members. They are also good in conducting the HOC. But they need to imbibe the system soon and more. Yes! It is not easy to have a Montessori HOC in a village like this.
4.9.08- PARENTS TEACHERS MEETING. We started the meeting sharply at 9.30 A.M. There were only 8 parents representing the group. The agenda was as follows with the minutes of the meeting.
· All the teachers were there.
· Dr.Madeswaran and Mrs.Dhanam was the chair person.
· We gave a warm welcome.
· We explained why it is important to attend any meeting or occasion in a school for a parent.
· ‘’a child will neglect a mother who could not recognize the child’s work and timing’’. This was the message to all the parents.
· We were planning to have a parents committee to represent and work for the various needs of the HOC.
· ‘’The school is not an institution, but it is a social well fare unit in the tiny village for the up liftment of the people from the child hood. This has to be realized through our freedom given in HOC.’’
· The annual budget was explained especially about the source of income to SAKTHI FOUNDATION through Dr.Pradheepkumar.
· The fees income was also put before the parents.
· The need for the expense, need to realize the fees structure though it is based on charity were explained.
· Transportation facility and its cost were discussed.
· Observation for the parents was announced.
· Need for child observation was explained.
· The HOC requested the parents to approach the adults to know about the activities of their children and not to talk ill about the school outside without understanding the concept behind the system.
· HOC has welcomed parents for a next meeting to plan the annual day celebrations.
· A simple explanation was given about English teaching and home work pattern was also explained.
· The history of writing within a child was explained.
· Miss.Kalaivani and Miss.Bodhini were facilitated by all of us for their beloved and commitment.
THE SACREDMOST MOMENTS – MATHRU POOJA
After a short break we did the ‘’mathru pooja’’. We explained the need and meaning behind worshipping our parents and elders and why we are touching the feet of a person for blessing.
Children were taught how to perform the ritual to their mother. They were so excited and every child did the pooja perfectly with total concentration and love.
Many parents were in tears out of love and blessed their children with hugs and kisses. Few fathers attended the pooja and accepted the respectful moments from their children.
Then Navarathry pooja was performed by the teachers. Mrs.Shanthi chanted the 108 sacred names of Goddess Mahalaxmi and Maniamma offered the flowers. There was pin drop silence in the school. Later we relished the ‘’puliyodarai’’ dish prepared by Usha amma.
Few children left their parents but others just went to work. When the PTA meeting was happening, children went to an other room and worked for 1.5 hrs without any break.
This is the 5th day of Navarathry festival. Our HOC GOLU is so sweet to see with compact arrangement.
6.10.08- Mrs.Priya living in Sendurai village has joined for observation to become a teacher in our HOC. She is the classmate of Mr.Jeyaraman. Her husband is working as a catering technologist in Tamil Nadu hotels in Madurai. Her 1.75 year old boy is a immature child with many health problems. She has joined with us to show a good path of stress less education to her boy from this time and she is also very calm and peaceful in mind which is very essential for us.
9.10.08- first vijayadasami day in HOC: HOC has celebrated the final day of Navarathry festival with grand and spiritual sense.
· 3 new children got admitted in our HOC.
· Naveen- 1.75 years.
· Diwakar- 1.75 years.
· Darshini- 2 .75 years.[ she needs some special care to walk well]
· SPECIAL EVENTS OF THE DAY:
1. Children and trust have honored all the staff with special gifts.
2. Teachers have made children to write all the Tamil scripts and initiated the writing exercise. This is the traditional way of initiating a child on his very first day in a school on this day.
CHANCE FOR A GOOD TEACHER: From Vijayadasami day Mrs.Priya from the same village is coming for observation. She is also having a small child who is ready for the Montessori HOC.
She is observing all the activities of the HOC and also practicing all EPL activities from other staff members. The staff members are able to run the HOC with confidence in the absence of 2 experienced people. In the mean time one of the parents has talked ill about the staff for writing about the fees payment in the note book. The parent is also not happy with the system and spoke ill in the village. We are not emotional and we are asking them to come to us for any doubts, but they have never turned up even for a single meeting. The child’s father is a teacher in the government school.
We are having the PTA on Saturday and we are asking the parents to be ready for the observation week and orientation. Beyond that if they are unhappy, they will be asked to take away the child. The parent’s attitude towards the school and staff are making strong impact on the child and she is also expressing that in the school. Teachers feel very difficult to handle this particular child.
18.10.08- Toady we conducted PARENTS TEACHERS MEETING. Only 6 parents were there but they were very conscious about the PTA. The following topics were discussed as follows,
1. Parent must recognize their child actions and appreciate.
2. We have discussed about the events of Annual festival.
3. Kolam, Drawing, Story telling and Speech will be conducted.
4. Parents were asked to perform the various acts before their children so that their children will appreciate their parents’ skills.
5. Again annual budget was discussed and we have spoken of the transport expense. One of the parents was suggesting with a cheap auto. We need to wait and discuss about it.
6. Again we spoke about the CODE OF CONDUCT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL AND PARENTS.
7. We have requested the parents to come to the HOC for any clarification.
STAFF MEETING:
1. We spoke about the child observation and report making.
2. We have seen the discussed about the individual plans of every child.
3. Staff- parents communication.
4. Reema who has left the HOC need to collect the report.
5. Deepawali celebration and Skandha sasti celebration.
6. Grounding and independence.
7. Child’s attitude towards various issues of HOC.
8. Mrs.Priya was given the appointment letter. We are happy with her attitude towards the Montessori education. She says,
‘’ I thought that this place will be baby care centre, but now I have understood that It is the place where we care and shape a child with real love and intelligence.’’
9. Her 1.25 year old son is also very active and he too got admitted in the school. He is very much involved with the Montessori materials.
10.Mrs.Priya have the following characters which are good for HOC: She is very calm and quiet. She is also very keen in observing any thing and she clears her doubts immediately. She is also able to maintain the link between her son and other children in the HOC.
19.10.08- Today the children were on leave. We started the sessions at 9 A.M. First we spoke with Saravanan’s mother.
1. The character of the child is getting changed and he has to be guided.
2. The parents must be aware about his attitude and also about the help given by the foundation.
3. They cannot talk about the help outside of the HOC.
4. He will be helped only based on their cooperation.
5. New dress for Deepawali was given to the child with Rs.100 by my mother for Deepawali.
24.10.08- DEEPAWALI FESTIVAL.
Today we have celebrated Deepawali festival in HOC with divinity and simplicity. We are promoting the idea of traditions and culture but not the luxury. So we have made it as a point that we never spend too much of money in luxurious celebrations.
This year we are observing the RAMAYANA TRADITION. So teachers have presented the legend of SreeRama. We have shown the Ramayana cartoon movie few months back.
As usual the HOC building was decorated with flowers and mango leaves. Children and staff decorated the MARAPAACHI WOODEN DOLLS as SreeRama and Sitha Devi.
They imagined that they are welcoming back to Ayodhya and chanted the sacred name of Rama and made a small procession inside the HOC compound.
The idols were brought inside the prayer hall. They were placed on the altar and the legend was repeated. Then special rituals were done by staff and children to them.
Then the brass idol of Devi Annapoorani[ Goddess of food] was brought from the prayer altar and placed on a plate. Special sacred bath was given to idol with ghee, milk, honey, sandal paste, and saffron and turmeric water.
Then the importance of food, wastage of food was explained to the children. Big lamps were lighted and children recited the chants.
On 23rd staff and children cooked a traditional sweet and that was also offered to the Goddess. Lemon rice was cooked by Mrs.Usha and got offered to the goddess.
Later every body gathered and tasted the festival feast and greeted each other. HOC announced holidays for 5 days. But we are offering food to 3 poor children for 2 times on all days.
Now the HOC has to begin its preparation for SKANDHA SASTI FESTIVAL. This is one of the most important festivals of the state. It is to celebrate the success over the evils by Lord Murugan[native God].
Mean while the village has received heavy rains and even we announced a day holiday on 22.10.08. But I feel very proud to say that out staff conducted the HOC with children who are near to the school.
25.10.08- Mr.Ganesh’s father merged with the God today morning.HOC is praying for his soul’s peace.
29.10.08- HOC has opened after 5 days of Deepawali holidays. Children were excited to come back and they got settled soon. From today we have started preparing the HOC to celebrate the grand SKANDHA SASTI POOJA.
Every day Mrs.Shanthi is performing the poojas to Lord Murugan in our school house and dramatizing the mythology of Muruga.
Today they have gone out for a nature walk to observe the village pond filled with pure fresh water after heavy rainfall.
HOC prayed for the health and wealth of Dr.PradheepKumar, for his birthday.
Thankyou!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Montessori approach to 6-9 years children-10
Thamil Changam
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HOW TO INSPIRE 6+ YEAR OLD CHILDREN?
Very often many of us say that what ever we do , children never listen to us, they feel boarded and never concentrate in the activities. But Dr.Montessori has discovered 6+ year old children' s mind and understood how to inspire them?
From the birth time children slowly observe the environment around them and imbibe the facts and incidents. From the age of 6 they start to abstract their ideas, experiences and feelings. Slowly they start to develop the inner knowledge.
This article will help the teachers and parents to inspire the children towards various exercises to shape out their knowledge. Knowledge is the inner thirst of every child. But the thirst for knowledge differs from child to child. Schools and parents need to accept the fact that every aspect on this planet is a source of knowledge. Children must be allowed to explore and choose their own work. But they must be insisted to have an allover view of all subjects.
Any aspect in our environment will be the source of knowledge. So we always begin any concept with a story, reading an article, showing a picture, showing an object related to the concept.
6+ year old children are very much attracted to such things. In our class rooms there is table called '' focus table''. Every day we place some thing on that table . Children when enter into the class, just see that table. They feel very happy and excited to talk about it . They also approach us and start talking about it. We also just give them some hints and encourage them to get ready for the lesson presentation.
Yesterday I have experienced a wonderful class across the school in teaching my language . Let me share that beautiful experience.
On last Sunday I got the chance to visit a coastal area in my state. That area is very famous in our history. It is the place where river Cauvery empties into Bay Of Bengal. This is the area where the ancient port town Poompuhar was located before 2000 years. It was the capital of Chola empire. But the entire city got washed away by great tsunami waves in 2nd century A.D.
When I saw the beach I was taken back to the olden days. I collected the pure silt soil deposited by river Cauvery. The waves brought many broken pieces of wood, bricks, pebbles, tiles from the sea. They are the remains of the Poompuhar city. I also collected them.
Already I have presented the history of ancient Tamil nadu from grade 3 till grade 7. On Monday I just placed them on the focus table in grade 6. We had the presentation and children were very very silent and observing the facts and just appreciated the remains and went back to olden days through their imagination. The questions asked by them were wonderful. Slowly the geography teacher entered and started talking about soil and sea currents. Then the History teacher gave the presentation about '' sources to learn history? ''
By afternoon the news spreaded to grade 5 and 7 then I was invited to give the presentation. Children who do not listen to language classes also gathered and settled in the front row and observed the presentation.
Then slowly the news went to primary classes and I gave the presentation to grade 3 and 4.
In each level the abstraction of knowledge was different. Let us see some samples of questions asked by children belong to different grades.
Grade 3: What was the king's name who ruled the city?
Grade 4: Can we dive into the sea and see the entire city even today?
Grade 5: Can we list out various jewels used by Poompuhar citizens?
Grade 6: I want to learn some of the literature connected with this city?
Grade 7: How can you prove that these remains belong only to this city?
Grade 8,9: Children just saw the remains and said thanks for showing them and left.
In primary level questions were more about the facts like king's name, how old was the city?, story about Cauvery etc.
In elementary level they explored the remains and talked more about culture and civilization.
But every child enjoyed this presentation. A Korean boy who do not know Tamil also enjoyed and said that he wants to go and see the spot in Christmas holidays.
This shows that when a child passes each phase of life the interest of knowledge changes but in all phase the need for the knowledge is the same.
For 2 days my Tamil class taught history, geology, geography, literature, science and religion. So every object can be the focusing object. We need to come out of the shell and think wide and change our view about lessons and knowledge. There is a famous Tamil proverb , '' vallavanukku pullum aayudham''. This means a wise man can use even a grass as a powerful weapon. Let us think!
Home
Articles in English
Articles in Thamil
HOW TO INSPIRE 6+ YEAR OLD CHILDREN?
Very often many of us say that what ever we do , children never listen to us, they feel boarded and never concentrate in the activities. But Dr.Montessori has discovered 6+ year old children' s mind and understood how to inspire them?
From the birth time children slowly observe the environment around them and imbibe the facts and incidents. From the age of 6 they start to abstract their ideas, experiences and feelings. Slowly they start to develop the inner knowledge.
This article will help the teachers and parents to inspire the children towards various exercises to shape out their knowledge. Knowledge is the inner thirst of every child. But the thirst for knowledge differs from child to child. Schools and parents need to accept the fact that every aspect on this planet is a source of knowledge. Children must be allowed to explore and choose their own work. But they must be insisted to have an allover view of all subjects.
Any aspect in our environment will be the source of knowledge. So we always begin any concept with a story, reading an article, showing a picture, showing an object related to the concept.
6+ year old children are very much attracted to such things. In our class rooms there is table called '' focus table''. Every day we place some thing on that table . Children when enter into the class, just see that table. They feel very happy and excited to talk about it . They also approach us and start talking about it. We also just give them some hints and encourage them to get ready for the lesson presentation.
Yesterday I have experienced a wonderful class across the school in teaching my language . Let me share that beautiful experience.
On last Sunday I got the chance to visit a coastal area in my state. That area is very famous in our history. It is the place where river Cauvery empties into Bay Of Bengal. This is the area where the ancient port town Poompuhar was located before 2000 years. It was the capital of Chola empire. But the entire city got washed away by great tsunami waves in 2nd century A.D.
When I saw the beach I was taken back to the olden days. I collected the pure silt soil deposited by river Cauvery. The waves brought many broken pieces of wood, bricks, pebbles, tiles from the sea. They are the remains of the Poompuhar city. I also collected them.
Already I have presented the history of ancient Tamil nadu from grade 3 till grade 7. On Monday I just placed them on the focus table in grade 6. We had the presentation and children were very very silent and observing the facts and just appreciated the remains and went back to olden days through their imagination. The questions asked by them were wonderful. Slowly the geography teacher entered and started talking about soil and sea currents. Then the History teacher gave the presentation about '' sources to learn history? ''
By afternoon the news spreaded to grade 5 and 7 then I was invited to give the presentation. Children who do not listen to language classes also gathered and settled in the front row and observed the presentation.
Then slowly the news went to primary classes and I gave the presentation to grade 3 and 4.
In each level the abstraction of knowledge was different. Let us see some samples of questions asked by children belong to different grades.
Grade 3: What was the king's name who ruled the city?
Grade 4: Can we dive into the sea and see the entire city even today?
Grade 5: Can we list out various jewels used by Poompuhar citizens?
Grade 6: I want to learn some of the literature connected with this city?
Grade 7: How can you prove that these remains belong only to this city?
Grade 8,9: Children just saw the remains and said thanks for showing them and left.
In primary level questions were more about the facts like king's name, how old was the city?, story about Cauvery etc.
In elementary level they explored the remains and talked more about culture and civilization.
But every child enjoyed this presentation. A Korean boy who do not know Tamil also enjoyed and said that he wants to go and see the spot in Christmas holidays.
This shows that when a child passes each phase of life the interest of knowledge changes but in all phase the need for the knowledge is the same.
For 2 days my Tamil class taught history, geology, geography, literature, science and religion. So every object can be the focusing object. We need to come out of the shell and think wide and change our view about lessons and knowledge. There is a famous Tamil proverb , '' vallavanukku pullum aayudham''. This means a wise man can use even a grass as a powerful weapon. Let us think!
Montessori approach to 6-9 years old children-7
ARE WE LOOKING BEAUTIFUL AND ATTRACTIVE?
When I came to Madras, I was questioning myself, '' Why most of the city people, rich people look fair? attractive ? ''
Even in my school most of the children look fair, good looking and some thing strange from the Indian community. What made them like this? When we look into the pregnancy, the mother makes all these features. Heredity expression plays the other role.
Dr. Montessori has talked about beauty, attraction and perfection. It is very clear that all the living beings are beautiful. Nature has designed them with perfection. But as Indian mythology, epics and modern embryology say, the mother is the shaper of the child from the embryo. She is the real Goddess who makes the child beautiful, healthy and perfect in all aspects.
The two different extremes:
When the mothers from rich back ground go through the pregnancy the stress is quiet low than the mothers in villages and in poor community. The rich mother just enjoys her pregnancy in a most comfortable environment. The husband , in-laws and other relation are there to support in a peaceful way.
But in a village situation, especially in poor community the need for food, shelter and clothing are stressing the embryo. The stress from drunken husbands, rude relatives, pain of poverty changes the fate of the child. The child is stressed from the pregnancy stage. The mal nutrition is the most worst stress for these children.
The rich mother is focusing the child to languages, arts, good food, fashionable life, books from pregnancy. I need not explain the other part of the poor mother. But after the delivery there are lot changes in the life of a rich and poor children. In both cases the parents are working. A rich mother works for more materialistic status. Where as the poor mother work for the daily bread.
The rich mother leaves the child at baby care homes. Where as the poor mother takes the child to the working spot. But the poor child is exposed to many relatives like grand parents, aunts and uncles. The nature is more exposed to a poor child. But the rich child is well cared by the nurses or baby sitters. They are well pampered by the family. Relatives and friends are not often exposed to this child. The child needs to spend the days only in A. C rooms and cars. Even the nature exposed to the child is a prepared one like a zoo, park or garden.
Based on these aspects, the language , culture and behavior of the children are framed for their future. The city child looses the native tradition, culture and art. Where as the poor child looses the exposure to modern life, changes in the society and education.
Today the parents and teachers in struggling to balance these 2 matters. The teachers in the city are feeling very difficult in making the children to know about various cultures, village life even though media is there to support. The stress for a language teacher in Indian cities is very difficult to express. The Indian regional languages are different and very much complicated. Unless the children are exposed to the language it is very very hard for the child and teacher .
The threat from NRI s:
This article will help the NRI people , especially Indians who are planning to settle in India. The Indian state governments are much concerned about the regional languages. Though the central government offers foreign language programme, recently the norms are very strong that the child must do the regional state language as third language.
English is the first language. Hindhi is the second language and the regional state language is the third language till grade 8. There are various examination boards which offer regional languages as second language and Hindhi as third language. But is states like Karnataka [ South Indian state] Kannada [ regional language ] is the first language.
My school follows the ICSC board. We teach both Hindhi and Tamil [ regional language ] in equal level till grade 5. After grade 5, the child will choose either Hindhi or Tamil as second language and other as third language. The foreign children can do their languages like French, German and other languages . But they must learn either Hindhi or Tamil as third language.
If any NRI child wants to do the foreign language from where he came the formalities are very complex. There are many such NRI children who are suffering in my school to learn a new Indian language as second language. The only reason is that they are not exposed to the languages.
Most of the well educated Indians in cities and abroad are not at all talking in the mother tongue language. The child knew only English. The parents feel very proud about it. But the threat for the child is in the society. The child who do not know to talk in its mother tongue is neglected in the native community. That child looses the tradition and culture. Apart from this the threat is the language education. As a teacher I have been much stressed with such children who knew only English. It is funny to say that I am teaching Tamil through English.
At the same time the children from East Asian countries are suffering in learning through English because they do not have any English exposure. The same stress is there for our village children to learn English. English is always a night mare. I say all these are because of the parents view on '' ultra modern life'' . The globalization has made the children to face this problem. Modern English education, women employment, media are responsible for this stress upon the children. The government is also very rigid in its policy.
So we warn these parents to think about the children and the stress . There is no child who will say '' no'' to the parents for tradition and language. From birth , the child must be exposed to the mother tongue. They need not be a poet or author, just the spoken language is enough. I advice , more vocabulary skill in names and verbs alone help these children.
Example: My friend living in USA never speak in English at home. The couple always converse either in Hindhi, Tamil or Malayalam [ their mother tongue]. Today his 6 year old boy is well versed in all these languages. The child is well prepared for a transplantation at any time. The mother is spending time regularly in evenings to teach the languages and math based on Indian syllabus. The child is always ready to come to India .
Same time when one of my cousin brother came to India from USA, the family went into quarrels. The children do not know to talk in Tamil and the uneducated grand parents could not accept them . More than that the children could not mingle with them. Within 2 weeks they went to USA.
The children from abroad when come here are like the saplings ready for transplantation. The parents just become aware of culture, tradition and their future and just bring them here. The children are not machines. Even the TV , video or audio sets differ in their voltages and watts from country to country. Children will adapt to any condition, but basic preparation is a must. Other wise we are wasting our money, answer ftime and energy in schools. They are not gaining much.
Example: A child from Korea came to our school. He do not know English. He was much stressed and could not mingle with any of his class mates. For 1 year the the teachers were just spending time in settling him. The new culture, language and other features made him just to roam and play. The child has just settled and started his learning. How to or his delay in learning?
A girl came to grade 7 before 3 years from Australia. When she was interviewed she was very good in reading Tamil. She was quiet confidence in spoken language also. Soon I taught her to write. The girl stood first in Tamil exams at the end of 8th grade. Now she is in grade 10. She has blossomed as a poet in Tamil . This is because of her parents .
Montessori schools in India must concentrate specially in languages. The importance given to EPL [ essential practical life activities ] , Math and English must be given to Indian languages. The school must be very very careful in appointing the Montessori adults knowing the regional language of the locality. The children need equal drilling and practice in the Indian languages.
So the beauty is not in the body or color, it is in cherishing the school and social life. From pre primary till grade 12, the child needs to enjoy the education. For that the parents and teachers need to plan from the beginning stage .
The beauty of the child has to be designed from the embryo stage. If Montessori schools reach all the villages they can train the village mothers and poor mothers to plan their pregnancy. Both the city and village mothers need to share and balance the various aspects of the children. Sakthi foundation has researched more about this. There are proper guidance for a couple under the family way. Please refer the site www. sakthifoundation. org .
Mahathma Gandhiji has welcomed Dr. Montessori to India and requested her to expand her education into all villages. But unfortunately that has failed after some time. Now Sakthividhya is trying the best to seed Montessori education in villages. Montessori education strongly believe in educating the parents. This is to make the children more happy and comfortable with the life.
The whole Montessori environment is designed to express and enjoy the beauty and perfection of life. Each activity in the school is well planned to make children to feel for the beauty of life. The following article will talk more about it.
Thank you!!!
When I came to Madras, I was questioning myself, '' Why most of the city people, rich people look fair? attractive ? ''
Even in my school most of the children look fair, good looking and some thing strange from the Indian community. What made them like this? When we look into the pregnancy, the mother makes all these features. Heredity expression plays the other role.
Dr. Montessori has talked about beauty, attraction and perfection. It is very clear that all the living beings are beautiful. Nature has designed them with perfection. But as Indian mythology, epics and modern embryology say, the mother is the shaper of the child from the embryo. She is the real Goddess who makes the child beautiful, healthy and perfect in all aspects.
The two different extremes:
When the mothers from rich back ground go through the pregnancy the stress is quiet low than the mothers in villages and in poor community. The rich mother just enjoys her pregnancy in a most comfortable environment. The husband , in-laws and other relation are there to support in a peaceful way.
But in a village situation, especially in poor community the need for food, shelter and clothing are stressing the embryo. The stress from drunken husbands, rude relatives, pain of poverty changes the fate of the child. The child is stressed from the pregnancy stage. The mal nutrition is the most worst stress for these children.
The rich mother is focusing the child to languages, arts, good food, fashionable life, books from pregnancy. I need not explain the other part of the poor mother. But after the delivery there are lot changes in the life of a rich and poor children. In both cases the parents are working. A rich mother works for more materialistic status. Where as the poor mother work for the daily bread.
The rich mother leaves the child at baby care homes. Where as the poor mother takes the child to the working spot. But the poor child is exposed to many relatives like grand parents, aunts and uncles. The nature is more exposed to a poor child. But the rich child is well cared by the nurses or baby sitters. They are well pampered by the family. Relatives and friends are not often exposed to this child. The child needs to spend the days only in A. C rooms and cars. Even the nature exposed to the child is a prepared one like a zoo, park or garden.
Based on these aspects, the language , culture and behavior of the children are framed for their future. The city child looses the native tradition, culture and art. Where as the poor child looses the exposure to modern life, changes in the society and education.
Today the parents and teachers in struggling to balance these 2 matters. The teachers in the city are feeling very difficult in making the children to know about various cultures, village life even though media is there to support. The stress for a language teacher in Indian cities is very difficult to express. The Indian regional languages are different and very much complicated. Unless the children are exposed to the language it is very very hard for the child and teacher .
The threat from NRI s:
This article will help the NRI people , especially Indians who are planning to settle in India. The Indian state governments are much concerned about the regional languages. Though the central government offers foreign language programme, recently the norms are very strong that the child must do the regional state language as third language.
English is the first language. Hindhi is the second language and the regional state language is the third language till grade 8. There are various examination boards which offer regional languages as second language and Hindhi as third language. But is states like Karnataka [ South Indian state] Kannada [ regional language ] is the first language.
My school follows the ICSC board. We teach both Hindhi and Tamil [ regional language ] in equal level till grade 5. After grade 5, the child will choose either Hindhi or Tamil as second language and other as third language. The foreign children can do their languages like French, German and other languages . But they must learn either Hindhi or Tamil as third language.
If any NRI child wants to do the foreign language from where he came the formalities are very complex. There are many such NRI children who are suffering in my school to learn a new Indian language as second language. The only reason is that they are not exposed to the languages.
Most of the well educated Indians in cities and abroad are not at all talking in the mother tongue language. The child knew only English. The parents feel very proud about it. But the threat for the child is in the society. The child who do not know to talk in its mother tongue is neglected in the native community. That child looses the tradition and culture. Apart from this the threat is the language education. As a teacher I have been much stressed with such children who knew only English. It is funny to say that I am teaching Tamil through English.
At the same time the children from East Asian countries are suffering in learning through English because they do not have any English exposure. The same stress is there for our village children to learn English. English is always a night mare. I say all these are because of the parents view on '' ultra modern life'' . The globalization has made the children to face this problem. Modern English education, women employment, media are responsible for this stress upon the children. The government is also very rigid in its policy.
So we warn these parents to think about the children and the stress . There is no child who will say '' no'' to the parents for tradition and language. From birth , the child must be exposed to the mother tongue. They need not be a poet or author, just the spoken language is enough. I advice , more vocabulary skill in names and verbs alone help these children.
Example: My friend living in USA never speak in English at home. The couple always converse either in Hindhi, Tamil or Malayalam [ their mother tongue]. Today his 6 year old boy is well versed in all these languages. The child is well prepared for a transplantation at any time. The mother is spending time regularly in evenings to teach the languages and math based on Indian syllabus. The child is always ready to come to India .
Same time when one of my cousin brother came to India from USA, the family went into quarrels. The children do not know to talk in Tamil and the uneducated grand parents could not accept them . More than that the children could not mingle with them. Within 2 weeks they went to USA.
The children from abroad when come here are like the saplings ready for transplantation. The parents just become aware of culture, tradition and their future and just bring them here. The children are not machines. Even the TV , video or audio sets differ in their voltages and watts from country to country. Children will adapt to any condition, but basic preparation is a must. Other wise we are wasting our money, answer ftime and energy in schools. They are not gaining much.
Example: A child from Korea came to our school. He do not know English. He was much stressed and could not mingle with any of his class mates. For 1 year the the teachers were just spending time in settling him. The new culture, language and other features made him just to roam and play. The child has just settled and started his learning. How to or his delay in learning?
A girl came to grade 7 before 3 years from Australia. When she was interviewed she was very good in reading Tamil. She was quiet confidence in spoken language also. Soon I taught her to write. The girl stood first in Tamil exams at the end of 8th grade. Now she is in grade 10. She has blossomed as a poet in Tamil . This is because of her parents .
Montessori schools in India must concentrate specially in languages. The importance given to EPL [ essential practical life activities ] , Math and English must be given to Indian languages. The school must be very very careful in appointing the Montessori adults knowing the regional language of the locality. The children need equal drilling and practice in the Indian languages.
So the beauty is not in the body or color, it is in cherishing the school and social life. From pre primary till grade 12, the child needs to enjoy the education. For that the parents and teachers need to plan from the beginning stage .
The beauty of the child has to be designed from the embryo stage. If Montessori schools reach all the villages they can train the village mothers and poor mothers to plan their pregnancy. Both the city and village mothers need to share and balance the various aspects of the children. Sakthi foundation has researched more about this. There are proper guidance for a couple under the family way. Please refer the site www. sakthifoundation. org .
Mahathma Gandhiji has welcomed Dr. Montessori to India and requested her to expand her education into all villages. But unfortunately that has failed after some time. Now Sakthividhya is trying the best to seed Montessori education in villages. Montessori education strongly believe in educating the parents. This is to make the children more happy and comfortable with the life.
The whole Montessori environment is designed to express and enjoy the beauty and perfection of life. Each activity in the school is well planned to make children to feel for the beauty of life. The following article will talk more about it.
Thank you!!!
Montessori approach to 6-9 years old children-1
Thamil Changam
Home
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Articles in Thamil
CHARACTERS OF 6 TO 9 YEARS OLD CHILDREN
Dear teachers and parents,
As a Montessori facilitator ,often I hear the very serious complaints from parents who are scared with the most beautiful age group of kids. They are the 6 and 6+ year old children. Are they really the greatest terrorist to us in homes and schools?
This article will give you a clear picture about that age group. After undergoing Montessori's guidance about this age group. I have realized the truth of life and beauty hidden inside this age group in past 7 years.
If anybody asks me, '' which age group of children you like ? '', my choice is always ''6 and 6+''. Because they are the raw clay in my hands to mould beautifully. They are ready before us to organize them self for a good life.
1.) The child is reasonable: From birth till 6 years, the child has gathered many seeds of knowledge from his environment. Now he is starting to find the reasons behind his abstracts and he starts asking us questions.
we need not give the answers for all questions. We can also say that you will help the child later. Sure after TV's influence they may say many ''unacceptable terms'', but we need to realize they do not know literally what it means.
Example: Often one of my 2nd grade boy started hugging his class girls and boys and started kissing and said ''I love you''. Imagine what will be the situation in a conventional school?
I saw that, many started complaining about him and teased him. I just called him and asked why he did .He said.,'' sir, often many big boys and girls in TV do this, even I want to show my love and friendship to my group like that, I too to do like that''.
I said,'' dear, it is so nice to hear that you like to hug., but there are friends who dont like touching them without their permission. They may feel stinky and sweaty. You all play under hot sun and come., please think. What ever big children do we need not do. If you want to show your love, better give handshake, or hug on shoulders, kiss your parents.''
[this happened in 2006] This child have never made another issue like this till today.
This is the beauty and divinity of 6+years old children.
We need to refine a lot. Often I say,'' my teaching is my spiritual sadhanas [ spiritual practices ] to cleanse myself, it is not my profession''.
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2.AGE OF DEVELOPING SELF CONSCIOUSNESS:
From birth the child has observed his environment and conserved many experiences. Now the child starts developing those small experiences into consciousness to build up the personality. So please give the space, opportunity, time make the child to construct the child's own feelings to strengthen the personality.
We have failed to do this in 6+age to our children, so now many personality workshops are happening in schools, colleges and corporate. If we cant construct our personality in 6+ how can we change in 3o+ ? If you have changed , I am sure it is to get good name from your boss and to add to your increment.
''aindhil walai yaa dha dahu aim bha dhil wayai yaadhu''. [If you cant get shaped out in 5 ,then how can you change at 50?]-a Tamil proverb.
Now the child needs our guidance without any dictatorship. The child is no more a feeding bottle baby to be under your hugs. The child wants to try all experiments of life, to abstract and gain the nourishment to construct his self-confidence , so that his personality will be ideal.
The child wants to explore more and more, so there raises 1000s of questions with in the child's mind. For all we cant answer. There is no harm in telling the child that you dont know, or you will tell later or allow you to rest for some time.
Try to talk to the child softly and explain why ,what ?
Example: Last year my friend's 6+kid came from America. We had a long journey to Madurai. On the way to Sendurai to see the lands for our school, after seeing the thick dense vegetation in hills, just the child asked whether there are any boars. When I said yes ,he threw more than 50 questions, when all were sleeping in car. The driver too asked him to keep quiet but I was answering with patience. Later when my answer bank became empty I just told him,
'' dear, can maamaa[uncle] rest for some time? I feel thirsty. I need to go back to library to find more about boars and I will mail to your appa or talk through skype? please try to share whatever you knew about boars to your American friends...''
The boy just gave me the water bottle and also 2 good day biscuits and he too slept on my shoulders.
So do not be egoistic before them.
Tamil proverb says,' 'God is your child''. The reason is that they make us to shed our ego.
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3.HE HAS HIS OWN WILL AND JUDGMENT:
The main worry for a parent who have a 6+ child is about the child's argumentative character. Suddenly the child who was walking by holding appa's [ father ] hands, now do not want him to touch even some times. For anything the child will argue.
Parents need not worry about this because mentally and physically the child is changing.
Till 6 years the child was a baby, the child has gathered information about various things from the environment. Now the child has started building its own world where the child put its own wills and justice. The child will become a strong person to find fault, argue and also in other hand to thank and appreciate us.
Now we are in the position to canalize his judgments, laws, ground rules not by dictating, showing our power of physic and ego. But be a role model.
The child is very keen in all happenings, trying to strengthen the emotions and laws. When we are mistaking ,actually the child is confused. There comes the rebelling mind. Please accept it, allow to talk, argue but teach him how to argue, question without using abusing words and tantrums. Indians lack the skill of questioning and commenting because of fear. Let the child learn how to question in a proper way without rudeness, and hurting others.
Example: In my school when ever children want to just bunk the sessions, try to play dramas with us. Often they will say, ''the previous teacher always used to allow us to play after sometime, why cant you too do that?''
Very often I say to my students,
'' dears, it is so nice to play . But that teacher has recorded that she made you all to work first, then to touch the ball., after comprehending 2 pages.....''
No mouth will open, but the hands will touch the study materials.
Then we need to clearly tell them that our family, class, follows certain culture, behavior and slowly teach and train them to adapt to it. It is like a daughter-in-law's fresh married life ,whenever a kid travels through various ages of life.
Parents must be the role models. Especially for boys ,from 6+fathers,uncles,cousins are expected to be at home often and live as nice role models.
Do not misguide your kid.
Example: There is a couple who got separated, the child is with the mother. In grade 2 ,I gave the names lessons of Indian family. Next day the mother send a letter saying,
'' Please do not teach my son the term FATHER''.
Let me share an another example.
There is a boy of 7 years. His note book is in a very damaged condition. I send a note to the parents 5 times. There was no reply. Then I send a cover with chart paper. For a week there was no respond. Yesterday when I checked the class work the child cried. I asked the reason. He said that he felt guilty to face me that he cant get the help of anybody to help him to cover his note book in his home even though I gave the materials to cover. Then I did the covering and rang up to his parents, they replied,
'' sorry sir, we both are always in our car traveling across the states for for business''
Why they need to marry and have a child?
There are many children who refuse to come to class. Let me share a nice example to show how we are living very very selfishly only for our comforts.
When I asked 3 graders to make an album about the farm animals, one child did not do it even after 4 reminders. The reason she said was,
'' my mother said ,we need not do all these work''.
I said.,'' explain your mom that it will help you to draw, write and name the animals easily'.'
She said,'' sir, I have already explained, but mom said she do not believe in this work'.'
Dear parents, here comes the main problem between teachers-children--parents.
Please believe your child's school. For you it is easy, boring but for the 6+ it is the first experience. You are plugging away their roots of development and interest.
Yesterday when a 4 year kid was just closing her palms, I asked what was there. She said that the teacher has asked them to bring dolls for Navarathry [ ten days festival in India at the month of October ] festival, she did not have a doll which can be brought and she picked up few pebbles from her garden and holding very carefully.
this is the order and law of the 6+ age children. For us it is very silly, but for her it is very important. It is equal to our golden jewels in the locker. So try to understand, please do not apply immediately your adult development and judge them.
If he picks up the bat and ball do not say'' haa...are you a Tendulcar. Go and study''.
He need not become a Tendulcar , but on his own he will shine.
So this age group is very very sensitive. we need to shed our ego and go along with them. Explain them the reality without bribing and when unacceptable behavior was expressed give them the consequences without hurting them. But do not withdraw away from your consequences.
Let them know the family setup, culture, reality of finance.. but do not show too much of family issues. Let the parents handle very sensitive issues in privacy.
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Monday, September 29, 2008
Important mile stones 4- The real Montessori great grand mother
A REAL MONTESSORI MOTHER
I was blessed to visit one of the senior citizen of this great nation on last Sunday. I am teaching Tamil to master Adithya Krishna. He is in grade 3. His mother Ms.Gayathri is a business woman cum classical musician in Madras. She was very often talking about her grand mother Srimathi. Sulochana.
So many times we have planned to visit this great lady who is in her 77th year. She has started learning the traditional Tanjavore art from a teacher at the age of 60. Her husband is her strength.
She has a very big home. It is not a home but it is a temple of arts. She is working every day with her creativeness and imagination to bring all the forms of Hindu gods and Goddesses on canvas. Her home is decked with all her craft, art and unique objects.
She welcomed me with true motherliness. She first thanked me for recognizing her art and said she is an electron in this ocean of art. Her politeness is the very first lesson. She is trying all forms of arts.
She took me various halls and rooms which are named with various names of rivers, temples etc. She said that there is no one on this earth to learn every aspect of any art form.
She got educated in Coimbatore city till grade ten. Then she got married and shifted to Madras. At that time Dr.Montessori was living in Madras. Her school in Adyar Allcot Momorial place was so famous. So she has admitted all her 4 children under Montessori system.
She felt proud for sending them to Montessori school and said that newspapers often communicate about Dr.Montessori’s talks in Adyar and her husband has visited few times.
She said that her children grew with confidence and chose their own path and living happily. Adithya’s grand mother [one of the daughter] is a dancer. She studied Bharathanatyam under SrimathiRukmini Arundael in Kalashetra. She has seen Montessori for many times.
We were talking about many aspects of family life, schooling, children, devotion etc. I asked a very important question:
‘’ What is the difference between children of your era and today? What we want to implement in our school?’’
She has answered as follows: ‘’ Please expose our children to Indian culture and tradition. They need to follow various social values like forgiving, politeness and patience…’’
She said that every work has to be dedicated and devoted to God. The work has to be exercised and practiced regularly. This is the most important feature of Montessori system also.
We had a very divine time. Then she gave me few photo copies of her paintings and she never gets money and blessed Namma Veedu School.
Let us implement the great message to this great grand mother through the art sessions in Namma Veedu. First we need to create the interest in villagers to listen _ view _ and appreciate the classical arts.
So we have planned to play the classical Veenai string instrument and Flute through our audio sessions. Then we are also putting the various paintings of various styles. First I have started collecting the drawings, paintings and scribbling of my students and Pranav [ Pradheep’s son].
Let the children first admire their own age work. In this context we thank Ms.Gayathri for making this visit to her grand mother’s home. Let the children appreciate the art and be peaceful in their mind and behavior.
Thank you!!!
I was blessed to visit one of the senior citizen of this great nation on last Sunday. I am teaching Tamil to master Adithya Krishna. He is in grade 3. His mother Ms.Gayathri is a business woman cum classical musician in Madras. She was very often talking about her grand mother Srimathi. Sulochana.
So many times we have planned to visit this great lady who is in her 77th year. She has started learning the traditional Tanjavore art from a teacher at the age of 60. Her husband is her strength.
She has a very big home. It is not a home but it is a temple of arts. She is working every day with her creativeness and imagination to bring all the forms of Hindu gods and Goddesses on canvas. Her home is decked with all her craft, art and unique objects.
She welcomed me with true motherliness. She first thanked me for recognizing her art and said she is an electron in this ocean of art. Her politeness is the very first lesson. She is trying all forms of arts.
She took me various halls and rooms which are named with various names of rivers, temples etc. She said that there is no one on this earth to learn every aspect of any art form.
She got educated in Coimbatore city till grade ten. Then she got married and shifted to Madras. At that time Dr.Montessori was living in Madras. Her school in Adyar Allcot Momorial place was so famous. So she has admitted all her 4 children under Montessori system.
She felt proud for sending them to Montessori school and said that newspapers often communicate about Dr.Montessori’s talks in Adyar and her husband has visited few times.
She said that her children grew with confidence and chose their own path and living happily. Adithya’s grand mother [one of the daughter] is a dancer. She studied Bharathanatyam under SrimathiRukmini Arundael in Kalashetra. She has seen Montessori for many times.
We were talking about many aspects of family life, schooling, children, devotion etc. I asked a very important question:
‘’ What is the difference between children of your era and today? What we want to implement in our school?’’
She has answered as follows: ‘’ Please expose our children to Indian culture and tradition. They need to follow various social values like forgiving, politeness and patience…’’
She said that every work has to be dedicated and devoted to God. The work has to be exercised and practiced regularly. This is the most important feature of Montessori system also.
We had a very divine time. Then she gave me few photo copies of her paintings and she never gets money and blessed Namma Veedu School.
Let us implement the great message to this great grand mother through the art sessions in Namma Veedu. First we need to create the interest in villagers to listen _ view _ and appreciate the classical arts.
So we have planned to play the classical Veenai string instrument and Flute through our audio sessions. Then we are also putting the various paintings of various styles. First I have started collecting the drawings, paintings and scribbling of my students and Pranav [ Pradheep’s son].
Let the children first admire their own age work. In this context we thank Ms.Gayathri for making this visit to her grand mother’s home. Let the children appreciate the art and be peaceful in their mind and behavior.
Thank you!!!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
History Of Namma Veedu Montessori Schools-16
IMPORTANT EVENTS OF NAMMA VEEDU MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN- SEPTEMBER, 2008.
2.9.08 VINAYAKAR CHATHURTHI FESTIVAL- Lord Vinayakar is the for most God of our Nation. He is the symbol of our bio energy and the initiation point of intelligence.
All over the country we celebrate the occasion of VINAYAKAR CHATHURTHY- Birth day of this deity. This year we celebrate the festival on 3rd of September. But as we have a holiday on this day our HOC have arranged for a grand function on September 2nd itself.
On 1st, HOC children have decorated the house in traditional way. Sacred bath was given to the Vinayakar idol and children did simple poojas to the God.
We have offered steam cooked rice balls called ‘’KOLUKATTAI’’ and cooked grams- ‘’SUNDAL’’. Many fruits were also offered and gave to children.
• Ms.Shanthi has narrated the legend behind this Lord to our children. We thank Usha amma for cleaning and cooking all these sacred food beyond her health problem.
• Children have broken the sandal paste stone which is 15 years old. We are in need of new mats also.
• We are going to celebrate OONAM festival soon.
5.9.08- FIRST TEACHERS DAY CELEBRATION IN HOC.
Today we have celebrated our first Teachers day in HOC. As there is cell phone communication, I have rang up to Bodhini and wished all the staff.
After some time HOC called me back and every child wished me. Their English was clear. Teachers in HOC also wished me.
Mean while Mr.Jayaraman has send a good bouquet with a greeting card along with sweets. His sister Miss.Kalaiselvi went to HOC and wished every one. On this occasion, we have honored Dr.Montessori behalf of her birth day also.
MESSAGE FOR THE DAY: PLEASE LET US PROVIDE THE BEST AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO OUR VILLAGE CHILDREN. TODAY ONLY RICH ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE BEST IN ALL AREAS.
8.9.08 – We have purchased few important Montessori materials in Coimbatore from Danush Educational Materials.
1. Arranging the circular blocks according to the size which is a related material to Pink Tower.
2. Sound boxes.
3. Color tablets.
4. Shoe lace set.
12.9.08- THIRUOONAM FESTIVAL IN HOC: ThiruOonam is one of the ancient festivals of South India. But today only Keralites celebrate this festival. It is the festival to conclude the monsoon and enjoy the harvest. The legend behind this festival is about King Mahabali who was made to surrender to Lord Vishnu. So the teachers have presented the legend as picture story for 2 weeks to make the children familiar with the concept of shedding ‘’selfego’’.
We have arranged the entrance of our HOC with flowers in various patterns and also on ThiruOonam day we have made it to the maximum level of joy and happiness. Prayers were performed by teachers and children and also special porridge was prepared by Ushma amma and special Oonam food feast was also offered to HOC children.Children rang up to Kerala and wished me and PradheepKumar. We all have shared many greetings to every one.
14.9.08 – Miss.Bodhini is getting engaged on this day for her wedding and we are planning for a next teacher.
21.9.08 – We have initiated the Montessori materials which were bought in Coimbatore. Saravanan was alone there with us in the HOC. I gave the concept of ‘’OIL BATH AND HEALTH’’. The awareness behind traditional oil bath was experienced by all of us with Saravanan’s case during the treatment for autism.
Again today he was given an oil bath after severing massage. Ms.Kalaivaani has joined in HOC again. We had a very open talk about the marriage, family life and child birth.
Then we have set GOLU for next week NAVARATHRY festival. It is a rehearsal only. The concept behind the GOLU, Navarathry was explained. Teachers were initiated to express their talents also.
Saravanan was very eager to come along with me to Madras, but we have doubted for pox virus. So I have to leave the child who was totally disappointed because of that.
27.9.08- A teacher got relived: Today HOC functioned with 8 children. Today Miss.Bodhini got relived from the HOC for her wedding life. We had a good emotional good bye to her. Teachers shared positive views about her as,
1. She has considered the work in HOC is the social reformation in the tiny village.
2. She is very clear about what she is doing.
3. She has sheded her ego with children.
4. She is ready for any adaptation.
5. She has adopted herself to the Montessori Method soon and followed to her best.
New Report Format for This Term: Then we spoke about the new format of our report for term three. We have decided to express the personality development of the child first. Then the report will be giving a clear idea about the language and Math skills of the child.
NAVARATHRY CELEBRATIONS: We have planned for a grand Navarathry festival for 10 days. We are going to perform rituals to honor Mothers as ‘’MAATHRU POOJA’’ on next Saturday after a PTA.
Simple but clear invitation was designed and we are going to issue on Monday. Teachers have prepared the clear name slips as pointers for every doll. I have explained the main concepts of the festival and asked them to practice.
Teachers will be honored on the last day of Navarathry which is considered to be the important day when we can start all of learning skills in various areas.
THE POOREST BOY WITH MANY PROBLEMS: Yes! Saravanan was medicated for his pox and again for his new skin rashes by us. The poor boy is just left out by his parents because they need to search for the bread from morning 6 A.M.
Jothy aunty prepared the neem and turmeric paste for the boy. He was smeared with the paste for 1 hour and then we gave a long massage with oil and then he took bath. He was also made to undergo many tough exercises based on Yogasanam to increase his lymphatic circulation and immunity. He was waiting for the Madras, but I could not take him just because of his father’s attitude. He has not met us and gave the permission letter. I left the village with the worries about the child.
2.9.08 VINAYAKAR CHATHURTHI FESTIVAL- Lord Vinayakar is the for most God of our Nation. He is the symbol of our bio energy and the initiation point of intelligence.
All over the country we celebrate the occasion of VINAYAKAR CHATHURTHY- Birth day of this deity. This year we celebrate the festival on 3rd of September. But as we have a holiday on this day our HOC have arranged for a grand function on September 2nd itself.
On 1st, HOC children have decorated the house in traditional way. Sacred bath was given to the Vinayakar idol and children did simple poojas to the God.
We have offered steam cooked rice balls called ‘’KOLUKATTAI’’ and cooked grams- ‘’SUNDAL’’. Many fruits were also offered and gave to children.
• Ms.Shanthi has narrated the legend behind this Lord to our children. We thank Usha amma for cleaning and cooking all these sacred food beyond her health problem.
• Children have broken the sandal paste stone which is 15 years old. We are in need of new mats also.
• We are going to celebrate OONAM festival soon.
5.9.08- FIRST TEACHERS DAY CELEBRATION IN HOC.
Today we have celebrated our first Teachers day in HOC. As there is cell phone communication, I have rang up to Bodhini and wished all the staff.
After some time HOC called me back and every child wished me. Their English was clear. Teachers in HOC also wished me.
Mean while Mr.Jayaraman has send a good bouquet with a greeting card along with sweets. His sister Miss.Kalaiselvi went to HOC and wished every one. On this occasion, we have honored Dr.Montessori behalf of her birth day also.
MESSAGE FOR THE DAY: PLEASE LET US PROVIDE THE BEST AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO OUR VILLAGE CHILDREN. TODAY ONLY RICH ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE BEST IN ALL AREAS.
8.9.08 – We have purchased few important Montessori materials in Coimbatore from Danush Educational Materials.
1. Arranging the circular blocks according to the size which is a related material to Pink Tower.
2. Sound boxes.
3. Color tablets.
4. Shoe lace set.
12.9.08- THIRUOONAM FESTIVAL IN HOC: ThiruOonam is one of the ancient festivals of South India. But today only Keralites celebrate this festival. It is the festival to conclude the monsoon and enjoy the harvest. The legend behind this festival is about King Mahabali who was made to surrender to Lord Vishnu. So the teachers have presented the legend as picture story for 2 weeks to make the children familiar with the concept of shedding ‘’selfego’’.
We have arranged the entrance of our HOC with flowers in various patterns and also on ThiruOonam day we have made it to the maximum level of joy and happiness. Prayers were performed by teachers and children and also special porridge was prepared by Ushma amma and special Oonam food feast was also offered to HOC children.Children rang up to Kerala and wished me and PradheepKumar. We all have shared many greetings to every one.
14.9.08 – Miss.Bodhini is getting engaged on this day for her wedding and we are planning for a next teacher.
21.9.08 – We have initiated the Montessori materials which were bought in Coimbatore. Saravanan was alone there with us in the HOC. I gave the concept of ‘’OIL BATH AND HEALTH’’. The awareness behind traditional oil bath was experienced by all of us with Saravanan’s case during the treatment for autism.
Again today he was given an oil bath after severing massage. Ms.Kalaivaani has joined in HOC again. We had a very open talk about the marriage, family life and child birth.
Then we have set GOLU for next week NAVARATHRY festival. It is a rehearsal only. The concept behind the GOLU, Navarathry was explained. Teachers were initiated to express their talents also.
Saravanan was very eager to come along with me to Madras, but we have doubted for pox virus. So I have to leave the child who was totally disappointed because of that.
27.9.08- A teacher got relived: Today HOC functioned with 8 children. Today Miss.Bodhini got relived from the HOC for her wedding life. We had a good emotional good bye to her. Teachers shared positive views about her as,
1. She has considered the work in HOC is the social reformation in the tiny village.
2. She is very clear about what she is doing.
3. She has sheded her ego with children.
4. She is ready for any adaptation.
5. She has adopted herself to the Montessori Method soon and followed to her best.
New Report Format for This Term: Then we spoke about the new format of our report for term three. We have decided to express the personality development of the child first. Then the report will be giving a clear idea about the language and Math skills of the child.
NAVARATHRY CELEBRATIONS: We have planned for a grand Navarathry festival for 10 days. We are going to perform rituals to honor Mothers as ‘’MAATHRU POOJA’’ on next Saturday after a PTA.
Simple but clear invitation was designed and we are going to issue on Monday. Teachers have prepared the clear name slips as pointers for every doll. I have explained the main concepts of the festival and asked them to practice.
Teachers will be honored on the last day of Navarathry which is considered to be the important day when we can start all of learning skills in various areas.
THE POOREST BOY WITH MANY PROBLEMS: Yes! Saravanan was medicated for his pox and again for his new skin rashes by us. The poor boy is just left out by his parents because they need to search for the bread from morning 6 A.M.
Jothy aunty prepared the neem and turmeric paste for the boy. He was smeared with the paste for 1 hour and then we gave a long massage with oil and then he took bath. He was also made to undergo many tough exercises based on Yogasanam to increase his lymphatic circulation and immunity. He was waiting for the Madras, but I could not take him just because of his father’s attitude. He has not met us and gave the permission letter. I left the village with the worries about the child.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
History Of Namma Veedu Montessori School-12
IMPORTANT EVENTS OF MARCH 2008
1.2.2008: We have offered the very first new dress to the little poor boy Saravanan. After studying his family situation we have decided to adopt him as our child.
He will be given special snacks for improving his weight and deficiency of malnutrition. So we have given good cashew nuts to the school. Twice in a week he will be given this. Slowly we are planning to give a badam and an egg per week.
His 2 brothers were also gifted with good dresses.
2.2.2008: 5 more children have joined in our school.
1. Sujeesh – 2.25 years. He has booked his seat for June now itself.
2. Nidarshana – 1.5 years from Bombay have temporarily got admitted in our school.
3. Mohanapriya – 3 years have joined.
4. Goutham – 1.9 months old child have joined along with his mother. She is Ms.Laxmi who will be our temporary helper.
5. Ravikumar – 2years old, Saravanan’s younger brother has joined with us.
6. Chandru – 7 years old, Saravanan’s elder brother has joined for week end programme.
STUDENTS WHO ARE IN NAMMA VEEDU:
1. Reema
2. Keerthana
3. Rajashree
4. Mohanapriya
5. Nidarshana - left
6. Saravanan
7. Ravikumar
8. Chandru
9. Sujee
10. Logeshwaran
11. Balamithran [part time]
12. Chandru [part time ]
13. Goutham - left
14. Vrindha sarathy - left
15. Sugeesh - left
• The last 3 children may continue.
3.3.2008: Ms.Poornima Mani from USA has visited our school today.
7.3.08: We had the nature walk to the local pond which is slowly drying and also to the dried river. The children were excited about the walk. On the way they got into the big pit and experienced the concept of high – low and also what is under the Earth. Elder children saw the roots protruding inside the soil and they learned the concept of ‘’deep rooting’’. They have collected many roots along with the soil.
They enjoyed the bird watching session near the pond. They were unable to digest that the pond is getting dried slowly, because few weeks back they have observed the same pond with water.
Morning they did shell sorting activity and they got the chance to collect many tiny shells with weeds too. Some saw the frogs also. They were able to relate the need of water for all after seeing a goat, bull, crow and their water bottle with water.
On the way they saw many tribes harvesting tamarind fruits. Children got their permission and took only one for each. They went and settled on a big rock in the mid of the river. They felt sad also for no water. They observed few tiny fishes. Elder children questioned where they will go after the river gets completely dried?
We had the snack session. Lokeshwaran a child who is in need of complete confidence and love was asked to serve the apple. They learned to wash the fruit and observed the cutting activity.
The great attention seeker: Our child Saravanan was so quiet and calm while we were walking and he was enjoying my hugs and pampering. He likes my childish talks to him. Teachers said that after my last week arrival, he has settled more and opened himself from his shell of fear and distrust. He is doing more activities along with his younger brother. His elder brother is also exploring and making use of the week ends in our school very well. He likes to see Madras and beach.
After our trip to pond we came back. I gave food to Saravanan and he has started sleeping. Many children slept well because of the tiredness and got up and played then left home. Saravanan’s mother said that he was rushing to school from early morning to see me. The love, affection, care, trust and food have made him bright and chubby looking.
Today one more new helper Ms.Jothylaxmi has joined with us. She is good in her work and lovable to children. Let her continue for ever.
8.3.08: Today we took an auto towards a remote place 2 KM away from Sendurai called ‘’ Vanji yuthu’’. The auto trip was very short but created many excitement within the children. Saravanan was with me. Logeshwaran was also with me seeking for my love and care openly.
From the local hospital we started walking deep into the woods to see and canvas a tribal community who survive by wood cutting and honey harvesting. The look of the women was pathetic. Many were wearing very worst cloths. Children were almost naked and just simply playing. They were looking dirty, dusty but with deep love and respect.
We spoke about our school and showed our children and spoke about their development. They have assured to send their children to our school.
Then 2 local tribal boys Thirupathy and Mookandi guided us towards the Vanjiyuthu spring. On the way we had many learning as follows:
• Children saw a very big spider web.
• Children saw various leaf patterns.
• Children learned to share slippers.
• Younger ones were also made to walk.
• We learned the strength of many children.
• Saravanan started showing his naughtiness.
• He was left alone when he refused to share his slippers to his brother and he spoke a bad word.
• Very often he cried and screamed to seek my attention so that I will carry him.
• But he walked well and I too carried him and cared him.
• He wanted me to hug, lift and play and I did all to him.
• His spoken language is very slang and we need to change that.
• His nose is filled with continuous mucus and cold and very often I was cleaning the nose and he was shouting for that.
• In the spring we saw many tiny creatures and plants.
• We saw deep calm woods on mountains.
• We saw the tribal women with goats and cows.
• Logeshwaran cared the snack time. The 2 tribal boys were thanked and treated as our guests.
After our walk we went into a village called Palanipatty and canvassed for admission. Then we came back and had lunch. Many children went fat as sleep. Later we presented decanomail square to Saravanan, Chandru and Logeshwaran. Then they were playing with toys.
I had brief meeting with the teachers and left Sendurai with light and heavy heart. I wish the rest 5 days to go soon.
15.3.08: We have appointed Miss.Renuka a +2 school passed girl in our school to assist the teachers and to get trained slowly. But she will be appointed only till June first. She is very quiet and calm and she is lovable to all kids. She needs to come out of the shyness and mix with the environment soon.
The same day we met Saravanan’s parents regarding the scholarship. We have directed them to produce the letter based on our format.
Saravanan got adorned with 2 different dresses and he left for local festival. The child was very particular in inviting me as their guest in the vehicle. He brought the sacred prasdham and pongal sweet.
The children learned to use umbrella and stood in rain. They observed the nature while it was raining.
16.3.08: Today Saravanan was very noisy and screaming to attain my love and warm hugs. So I was unable to give lessons to Chandru and Bala. Then Kalaivani took him away. Then after some time he settled down and we had many other presentation and also fun. Today many kids climbed on me and had fun. I made them to dance by standing in one leg and taught many games. We did English imitation programme with few kids. Saravana’s younger brother Ravi was staying for long time. Very often he has to be feeded and took long sleeping sessions. He is just 1.5 years old. His mother said that she was very happy and peaceful in sending her kids to the school and leaving for job. Saravanan had a very long sleep. By 3 5 P.M, it was raining we need to leave; I just took him from the bed and he started screaming and we changed his old dress and put one lollypop and said good bye. I was heavy hearted to get separated from these kids. May Amma give one more chance to visit them next week.
The doll presented to kids has made deep emotional impact and they are caring for it as a baby.
This week Pranav has send lollypops and children have enjoyed. I gave the story of Gananasambandhar. During lunch Saravanan was eating and eating and he showed that he likes very good food. Soon I pray that Usha amma must leave to Sendurai especially for Saravanan. I want to adapt an orphan child for our school.
21.3.08: GOOD FRIDAY.
I was very eager to see the children after 4 solid days. It was heavily raining. I have opened the doors and started the work. Slowly all teachers came and as usual Saravanan has to be tamed. After the prayer the group was presented with the story of orphan child and Krishna story. I showed them the laminated photo of Sree Guruvaayoorappan’s child form and children explored the photo. Every body called Saravanan as ‘’nandha lala’’. Then he has started working well. Today I was able to observe the real settlement from the children with all materials. Teachers were just behind their work observing them.
The accident: When I saw the windows of the reading room got opened I want to close because they were infected with termites. But suddenly one window just fell on my forehead and started bleeding heavily. I thank that non of the children were affected. Immediately Mani’s parents arrived when Kalaivani ran and gave the message. Bodhini applied turmeric powder and father took me to the local doctor. Luckily it was a small accident. We just removed all the other infected windows.
Children were affected with fear after seeing the accident. I was much worried because I could not feed them at lunch time. Than that my mother has send ghee to mal nutrition kids for the very first time.
THE SACREDMOST TOUCH……..
I asked the teachers to put spoon full of ghee to Saravanan and feed him. He was just staring at my head and looking scared. After my medication I came to the school and took Saravanan and he started crying and released his fear and also touched my head and asked was it pain full. God has cured my pain!
Then the day proceeded with many work and afternoon play time with dolls and toys. The teachers gave the presentation of ‘’Christ and his service to earth’’. We showed the real photo of Mother Mary with infant Christ in Velankanni. We tried to relate the feeling of mother in all religions. Few alterations were done in EPL hall. Show case was decorated with some toys and dolls. Children were able to adjust with one another and no clash was going between them regarding the toys. We have sent the kids soon. Elder children were given remedial work in language and Math subjects. It was raining heavily…………..
23.3.08: Today it was raining heavily and I came and waited before the school gate to get opened. It was morning 9, no teacher has arrived. Then Bodhini came with key and we opened the school. Immediately Saravanan’s elder brother Chandru came to school.
Today we have prepared Chappathy and potato as Pranav wished to offer to these children. Teachers came late and Kalaivani has not yet come and no information was send too. Then I explained the need of opening the school on all days except on some unavoidable situations. I said that even one child is coming we need to open the school for him. The regularity in sending the child, leave taking and other things were discussed. Two teachers came very late because of rain and I explained how I go promptly to ABACUS even during cyclone days. Any thing cannot be taking it for granted. I do not want this school to be a centre to relax for a child and for an adult. It is a temple and learning centre and than that the ‘’home for all little ones who need calm, love and peace of mind away from home’’.
The true love never gets regretted:
Slowly by 10 A.M, other children also came and we were running the environment. We had the grand warm lunch with Chappthy and potato dish.
Balamithran also wanted to be spoon feeded by me with a story. Balachander also came and sat near to me. Saravanan was on my laps. I fed them with ghee, nuts an dates and lunch was so grand. We thanked Pranav and Mani’s mother for offering this. Children relished the food. Saravanan ate only rice with more ghee.
Lessons according to the weather:
The rain was heavy and we gave the story of Krishna lifting the Govardhanagiri to protect all cowherds from heavy rain by connecting Sendurai’s geography and weather. Some children showed Panduranga’s idol and asked whether he lifted the hill and protected the people. We gave the lesson of ‘’ rain and water’’.
23.3.08: By morning 7 A.M, I got an intuition to rush up to the school. I took a small soon bath and rushed up to the school with few flowers and keys.
Near the gate I saw the 3 brothers…. Chandrakumar _ Saravanan and Ravikumar waiting for my arrival. When Saravanan saw me he started crying and he asked me to lift him and I obeyed. When we opened the doors the boy said it is gate and I gave the lesson of a door and gate.
The 3 brothers took the transport toys and started playing. Saravanan was so happy and he did not cry at all. Slowly teachers came and we started the school. Today we had full attendance.
Chandrakumar narrated the story of Krishna lifting the mountain to save his people from rain and we gave the painting of that scene also.
* We saw Reema playing with the 2 baby dolls and giving her hidden motherliness.
* Few kids refused to sleep and worked.
* Saravanan showed his crying attitude to me and Bodhini in a toy case and we taught him the lesson of ‘’ no crying attitude’’.
* Children saw a parrot chick and observed the bird behavior.
* Later we had a walk to our farm and land. Kalaivani gave the lesson about sunflowers.
* Then we all sat on piles of logs and sang the songs.
We met Suji’s, Balachander’s mothers regarding their fees and scholarship.
I felt very happy that Saravanan has believed us and started showing his compassion to me and wanted me to care him more.
The teachers in the school need to equip their English knowledge and spoken skills. This evening I have rendered my thanks and prayers to Dindukal Maariamman and offered the first offering of the school Rs.150. I have also purchased 2 baby dolls and I basket ball set for the school and left to Madras.
29.3.08: Today we had the first video show – THE RAMAYAN CARTOON through lap top computer. Children were excited to see the lap top computer. Few wanted to touch the set also. Many children kept focused on the film and few younger ones left to work with EPL activities.
Children were introduced with Ram, Seetha and Laxman. They were more furious when Ravana took away Seetha. Saravanan’s mother was also there to enjoy the show. By 10.30, we chanted the slokas and cut the pure rum cake and relished.
Many kids wanted the second share also. Saravanan had 5 pieces of rum cake. Then we all went out side to our land to do the presentation of spikes and leaves. Before that we all stood in row for the very first time and saw the height order.
Then we set out our journey. We found the fresh anthill near our land within a week. Kalaivani and Bodhini gave the lesson of various houses. Then we had the observation of a cactus spikes and children were made to feel the sharp edge.
Then we moved to our land and did few warming up exercises. Then slowly we did the verb game. Then we went to a near by pit and observed the red soil and jumped into the pit. Children saw the nearby fence with many butterflies and few plucked the flowers and started smelling the fragrance.
Then we did the exercise of ‘’walking on a straight line’’. One of the one foot path naturally created became our line and many were able to do the walking properly.
The greatest chance:
The 1.5 years old boy Ravikumar, showed the various spikes across the path and related to the previous presentation. We have admired the absorption mind of the child. This child has started talking clearly in this week after a month work in the environment. He has started settling soon also.
The greatest proof:
After our walk I saw Saravanan sneezing with good hand gesture. He has learned how to use his right hand to sneeze. This is the proof for the teachers work in the school.
The poor boy who do not know the language to express himself:
Saravanan got up at 6 A.M and asked his mother to make him ready for the school because he was expecting me. But when I came he cried and screamed. Teachers said that he is very different in my absence. This is the symptom for attention seeking child.
We felt that he needs my hugs and passions but he cant express it. When I went to change his dirty orange shirt he cried and shouted because he could not express that he likes that color. Then I cleared his mind and just left him. The boy was so calm and did not participated in any activity and he was just enjoying the love and affection given by me. His younger brother and Logeshwaran were offered with a good looking dress.
The box of anxiety:
By noon I gave food to all these kids with a long story. Saravanan ate more and added more ghee. Teachers felt jealous of him and we all laughed. Then we all opened the elephant material wooden box and children handled the elephants very carefully and started exploring the animal. They felt bad for a broken elephant and thanked Mr.Jayaprakash. Then we made them to sleep and few were working. Teachers wrote the observations. Miss.Renuka will be leaving the school after her 9 days work because of her nursing studies. May god bless her!
The first issue: A parent is making simple issues based on the comparison of children, caste and work. The parent has cultivated all the unwanted behavior within the child and the teachers are struggling to treat the child in good way. How ever we treat the child, it is the parents’ duty to take the child in right path. We just kept silent and observed the parent behavior. I have told the teachers that no one can insult or disrespect. It is the human right to treat each other equally.
30.3.08 Awareness never fails:
The boy was admitted at the age of 3. But I never believed that. I saw him as an underdeveloped growth to his age. Slowly many symptoms were observed by us. He is suffering from sever ‘’ attention syndrome and mental illness, because his mother leaves him by 6 a.m to work. His love has been taken away by his younger brother who is 1.5 years old.
But my awareness was more concerned with his pregency. His head is little large and he showed many symptoms like often getting mentally detattached from us, no language development and some times very high level of noise and shouting with cry.
Teachers said that he is behaving very babyish in my presence. He needs my warmthness but he can’t express any thing. He is just a doll in our hands. But his weight has increased after a month because of our care with special food, his rice smells badly.
I was waiting for more facts about the child. When ever I go first he enters with big shouting and cry then he expects me to take and hug and put on my laps to give mother’s touch, then he will be always with me and do his work. But he talks rarely. His growth and 1.5 year brother’s growth are the same. In these 10 days his brother has started talking fastly but he could not.
On 30th March we have asked his mother to come to discuss about the elder son’s education. While talking I just asked,’’ How was your second son’s pregnancy?’’
Immediately the poor lady started crying and narrated as follows,
‘’ When I got this kid in my pregnancy, mu husband treated me very rudely and every day troubled me after drinking. So every day was a fear because of my father – in – law and husband. One night I just took a secret rail to my mom’s place in Bangalore. There my poor mother cared me and every day I waited to eat a lot.
By 7.5 months suddenly this child got delivered in the home and he was just my palm’s size. My in laws and husband just left me for delivering this kid. My mother sold her lands and put him in a private hospital and for 3 months we cared him.
So he is special child. Later within a year I delivered the last one.
He has never taken even a drop of mother’s milk. So often he becomes ill….’’
Yes! All our doubts about the child got clarified. Yes this boy is not 3 years he is just 2.5 years. He is an immature child with traces of multiple syndromes especially Autism now. His pregnancy was very sorrowful because of fear and malnutrition. But God has showed him the school at right time and he is improving day by day physically.
Today he is showing few traces of autism and we are in need to care him with true dedication. He just needs our true love and care. Apart from that he is doing all Montessori activities, especially speech therapy.
Very recently we have observed him with urinary problems also. Today we want him get a complete scan and checked for normal internal organs. So we need help from our friends to help this boy. It costs RS.5000 for complete checkup and scanning.
So a child has a hidden child which will be brought out by nature. We feel empathy for the child and we want just to improve his personality and knowledge and to become normal. May God help us to care and treat more Saravanans in Namma Veedu Montessori House of Children’’.
1.2.2008: We have offered the very first new dress to the little poor boy Saravanan. After studying his family situation we have decided to adopt him as our child.
He will be given special snacks for improving his weight and deficiency of malnutrition. So we have given good cashew nuts to the school. Twice in a week he will be given this. Slowly we are planning to give a badam and an egg per week.
His 2 brothers were also gifted with good dresses.
2.2.2008: 5 more children have joined in our school.
1. Sujeesh – 2.25 years. He has booked his seat for June now itself.
2. Nidarshana – 1.5 years from Bombay have temporarily got admitted in our school.
3. Mohanapriya – 3 years have joined.
4. Goutham – 1.9 months old child have joined along with his mother. She is Ms.Laxmi who will be our temporary helper.
5. Ravikumar – 2years old, Saravanan’s younger brother has joined with us.
6. Chandru – 7 years old, Saravanan’s elder brother has joined for week end programme.
STUDENTS WHO ARE IN NAMMA VEEDU:
1. Reema
2. Keerthana
3. Rajashree
4. Mohanapriya
5. Nidarshana - left
6. Saravanan
7. Ravikumar
8. Chandru
9. Sujee
10. Logeshwaran
11. Balamithran [part time]
12. Chandru [part time ]
13. Goutham - left
14. Vrindha sarathy - left
15. Sugeesh - left
• The last 3 children may continue.
3.3.2008: Ms.Poornima Mani from USA has visited our school today.
7.3.08: We had the nature walk to the local pond which is slowly drying and also to the dried river. The children were excited about the walk. On the way they got into the big pit and experienced the concept of high – low and also what is under the Earth. Elder children saw the roots protruding inside the soil and they learned the concept of ‘’deep rooting’’. They have collected many roots along with the soil.
They enjoyed the bird watching session near the pond. They were unable to digest that the pond is getting dried slowly, because few weeks back they have observed the same pond with water.
Morning they did shell sorting activity and they got the chance to collect many tiny shells with weeds too. Some saw the frogs also. They were able to relate the need of water for all after seeing a goat, bull, crow and their water bottle with water.
On the way they saw many tribes harvesting tamarind fruits. Children got their permission and took only one for each. They went and settled on a big rock in the mid of the river. They felt sad also for no water. They observed few tiny fishes. Elder children questioned where they will go after the river gets completely dried?
We had the snack session. Lokeshwaran a child who is in need of complete confidence and love was asked to serve the apple. They learned to wash the fruit and observed the cutting activity.
The great attention seeker: Our child Saravanan was so quiet and calm while we were walking and he was enjoying my hugs and pampering. He likes my childish talks to him. Teachers said that after my last week arrival, he has settled more and opened himself from his shell of fear and distrust. He is doing more activities along with his younger brother. His elder brother is also exploring and making use of the week ends in our school very well. He likes to see Madras and beach.
After our trip to pond we came back. I gave food to Saravanan and he has started sleeping. Many children slept well because of the tiredness and got up and played then left home. Saravanan’s mother said that he was rushing to school from early morning to see me. The love, affection, care, trust and food have made him bright and chubby looking.
Today one more new helper Ms.Jothylaxmi has joined with us. She is good in her work and lovable to children. Let her continue for ever.
8.3.08: Today we took an auto towards a remote place 2 KM away from Sendurai called ‘’ Vanji yuthu’’. The auto trip was very short but created many excitement within the children. Saravanan was with me. Logeshwaran was also with me seeking for my love and care openly.
From the local hospital we started walking deep into the woods to see and canvas a tribal community who survive by wood cutting and honey harvesting. The look of the women was pathetic. Many were wearing very worst cloths. Children were almost naked and just simply playing. They were looking dirty, dusty but with deep love and respect.
We spoke about our school and showed our children and spoke about their development. They have assured to send their children to our school.
Then 2 local tribal boys Thirupathy and Mookandi guided us towards the Vanjiyuthu spring. On the way we had many learning as follows:
• Children saw a very big spider web.
• Children saw various leaf patterns.
• Children learned to share slippers.
• Younger ones were also made to walk.
• We learned the strength of many children.
• Saravanan started showing his naughtiness.
• He was left alone when he refused to share his slippers to his brother and he spoke a bad word.
• Very often he cried and screamed to seek my attention so that I will carry him.
• But he walked well and I too carried him and cared him.
• He wanted me to hug, lift and play and I did all to him.
• His spoken language is very slang and we need to change that.
• His nose is filled with continuous mucus and cold and very often I was cleaning the nose and he was shouting for that.
• In the spring we saw many tiny creatures and plants.
• We saw deep calm woods on mountains.
• We saw the tribal women with goats and cows.
• Logeshwaran cared the snack time. The 2 tribal boys were thanked and treated as our guests.
After our walk we went into a village called Palanipatty and canvassed for admission. Then we came back and had lunch. Many children went fat as sleep. Later we presented decanomail square to Saravanan, Chandru and Logeshwaran. Then they were playing with toys.
I had brief meeting with the teachers and left Sendurai with light and heavy heart. I wish the rest 5 days to go soon.
15.3.08: We have appointed Miss.Renuka a +2 school passed girl in our school to assist the teachers and to get trained slowly. But she will be appointed only till June first. She is very quiet and calm and she is lovable to all kids. She needs to come out of the shyness and mix with the environment soon.
The same day we met Saravanan’s parents regarding the scholarship. We have directed them to produce the letter based on our format.
Saravanan got adorned with 2 different dresses and he left for local festival. The child was very particular in inviting me as their guest in the vehicle. He brought the sacred prasdham and pongal sweet.
The children learned to use umbrella and stood in rain. They observed the nature while it was raining.
16.3.08: Today Saravanan was very noisy and screaming to attain my love and warm hugs. So I was unable to give lessons to Chandru and Bala. Then Kalaivani took him away. Then after some time he settled down and we had many other presentation and also fun. Today many kids climbed on me and had fun. I made them to dance by standing in one leg and taught many games. We did English imitation programme with few kids. Saravana’s younger brother Ravi was staying for long time. Very often he has to be feeded and took long sleeping sessions. He is just 1.5 years old. His mother said that she was very happy and peaceful in sending her kids to the school and leaving for job. Saravanan had a very long sleep. By 3 5 P.M, it was raining we need to leave; I just took him from the bed and he started screaming and we changed his old dress and put one lollypop and said good bye. I was heavy hearted to get separated from these kids. May Amma give one more chance to visit them next week.
The doll presented to kids has made deep emotional impact and they are caring for it as a baby.
This week Pranav has send lollypops and children have enjoyed. I gave the story of Gananasambandhar. During lunch Saravanan was eating and eating and he showed that he likes very good food. Soon I pray that Usha amma must leave to Sendurai especially for Saravanan. I want to adapt an orphan child for our school.
21.3.08: GOOD FRIDAY.
I was very eager to see the children after 4 solid days. It was heavily raining. I have opened the doors and started the work. Slowly all teachers came and as usual Saravanan has to be tamed. After the prayer the group was presented with the story of orphan child and Krishna story. I showed them the laminated photo of Sree Guruvaayoorappan’s child form and children explored the photo. Every body called Saravanan as ‘’nandha lala’’. Then he has started working well. Today I was able to observe the real settlement from the children with all materials. Teachers were just behind their work observing them.
The accident: When I saw the windows of the reading room got opened I want to close because they were infected with termites. But suddenly one window just fell on my forehead and started bleeding heavily. I thank that non of the children were affected. Immediately Mani’s parents arrived when Kalaivani ran and gave the message. Bodhini applied turmeric powder and father took me to the local doctor. Luckily it was a small accident. We just removed all the other infected windows.
Children were affected with fear after seeing the accident. I was much worried because I could not feed them at lunch time. Than that my mother has send ghee to mal nutrition kids for the very first time.
THE SACREDMOST TOUCH……..
I asked the teachers to put spoon full of ghee to Saravanan and feed him. He was just staring at my head and looking scared. After my medication I came to the school and took Saravanan and he started crying and released his fear and also touched my head and asked was it pain full. God has cured my pain!
Then the day proceeded with many work and afternoon play time with dolls and toys. The teachers gave the presentation of ‘’Christ and his service to earth’’. We showed the real photo of Mother Mary with infant Christ in Velankanni. We tried to relate the feeling of mother in all religions. Few alterations were done in EPL hall. Show case was decorated with some toys and dolls. Children were able to adjust with one another and no clash was going between them regarding the toys. We have sent the kids soon. Elder children were given remedial work in language and Math subjects. It was raining heavily…………..
23.3.08: Today it was raining heavily and I came and waited before the school gate to get opened. It was morning 9, no teacher has arrived. Then Bodhini came with key and we opened the school. Immediately Saravanan’s elder brother Chandru came to school.
Today we have prepared Chappathy and potato as Pranav wished to offer to these children. Teachers came late and Kalaivani has not yet come and no information was send too. Then I explained the need of opening the school on all days except on some unavoidable situations. I said that even one child is coming we need to open the school for him. The regularity in sending the child, leave taking and other things were discussed. Two teachers came very late because of rain and I explained how I go promptly to ABACUS even during cyclone days. Any thing cannot be taking it for granted. I do not want this school to be a centre to relax for a child and for an adult. It is a temple and learning centre and than that the ‘’home for all little ones who need calm, love and peace of mind away from home’’.
The true love never gets regretted:
Slowly by 10 A.M, other children also came and we were running the environment. We had the grand warm lunch with Chappthy and potato dish.
Balamithran also wanted to be spoon feeded by me with a story. Balachander also came and sat near to me. Saravanan was on my laps. I fed them with ghee, nuts an dates and lunch was so grand. We thanked Pranav and Mani’s mother for offering this. Children relished the food. Saravanan ate only rice with more ghee.
Lessons according to the weather:
The rain was heavy and we gave the story of Krishna lifting the Govardhanagiri to protect all cowherds from heavy rain by connecting Sendurai’s geography and weather. Some children showed Panduranga’s idol and asked whether he lifted the hill and protected the people. We gave the lesson of ‘’ rain and water’’.
23.3.08: By morning 7 A.M, I got an intuition to rush up to the school. I took a small soon bath and rushed up to the school with few flowers and keys.
Near the gate I saw the 3 brothers…. Chandrakumar _ Saravanan and Ravikumar waiting for my arrival. When Saravanan saw me he started crying and he asked me to lift him and I obeyed. When we opened the doors the boy said it is gate and I gave the lesson of a door and gate.
The 3 brothers took the transport toys and started playing. Saravanan was so happy and he did not cry at all. Slowly teachers came and we started the school. Today we had full attendance.
Chandrakumar narrated the story of Krishna lifting the mountain to save his people from rain and we gave the painting of that scene also.
* We saw Reema playing with the 2 baby dolls and giving her hidden motherliness.
* Few kids refused to sleep and worked.
* Saravanan showed his crying attitude to me and Bodhini in a toy case and we taught him the lesson of ‘’ no crying attitude’’.
* Children saw a parrot chick and observed the bird behavior.
* Later we had a walk to our farm and land. Kalaivani gave the lesson about sunflowers.
* Then we all sat on piles of logs and sang the songs.
We met Suji’s, Balachander’s mothers regarding their fees and scholarship.
I felt very happy that Saravanan has believed us and started showing his compassion to me and wanted me to care him more.
The teachers in the school need to equip their English knowledge and spoken skills. This evening I have rendered my thanks and prayers to Dindukal Maariamman and offered the first offering of the school Rs.150. I have also purchased 2 baby dolls and I basket ball set for the school and left to Madras.
29.3.08: Today we had the first video show – THE RAMAYAN CARTOON through lap top computer. Children were excited to see the lap top computer. Few wanted to touch the set also. Many children kept focused on the film and few younger ones left to work with EPL activities.
Children were introduced with Ram, Seetha and Laxman. They were more furious when Ravana took away Seetha. Saravanan’s mother was also there to enjoy the show. By 10.30, we chanted the slokas and cut the pure rum cake and relished.
Many kids wanted the second share also. Saravanan had 5 pieces of rum cake. Then we all went out side to our land to do the presentation of spikes and leaves. Before that we all stood in row for the very first time and saw the height order.
Then we set out our journey. We found the fresh anthill near our land within a week. Kalaivani and Bodhini gave the lesson of various houses. Then we had the observation of a cactus spikes and children were made to feel the sharp edge.
Then we moved to our land and did few warming up exercises. Then slowly we did the verb game. Then we went to a near by pit and observed the red soil and jumped into the pit. Children saw the nearby fence with many butterflies and few plucked the flowers and started smelling the fragrance.
Then we did the exercise of ‘’walking on a straight line’’. One of the one foot path naturally created became our line and many were able to do the walking properly.
The greatest chance:
The 1.5 years old boy Ravikumar, showed the various spikes across the path and related to the previous presentation. We have admired the absorption mind of the child. This child has started talking clearly in this week after a month work in the environment. He has started settling soon also.
The greatest proof:
After our walk I saw Saravanan sneezing with good hand gesture. He has learned how to use his right hand to sneeze. This is the proof for the teachers work in the school.
The poor boy who do not know the language to express himself:
Saravanan got up at 6 A.M and asked his mother to make him ready for the school because he was expecting me. But when I came he cried and screamed. Teachers said that he is very different in my absence. This is the symptom for attention seeking child.
We felt that he needs my hugs and passions but he cant express it. When I went to change his dirty orange shirt he cried and shouted because he could not express that he likes that color. Then I cleared his mind and just left him. The boy was so calm and did not participated in any activity and he was just enjoying the love and affection given by me. His younger brother and Logeshwaran were offered with a good looking dress.
The box of anxiety:
By noon I gave food to all these kids with a long story. Saravanan ate more and added more ghee. Teachers felt jealous of him and we all laughed. Then we all opened the elephant material wooden box and children handled the elephants very carefully and started exploring the animal. They felt bad for a broken elephant and thanked Mr.Jayaprakash. Then we made them to sleep and few were working. Teachers wrote the observations. Miss.Renuka will be leaving the school after her 9 days work because of her nursing studies. May god bless her!
The first issue: A parent is making simple issues based on the comparison of children, caste and work. The parent has cultivated all the unwanted behavior within the child and the teachers are struggling to treat the child in good way. How ever we treat the child, it is the parents’ duty to take the child in right path. We just kept silent and observed the parent behavior. I have told the teachers that no one can insult or disrespect. It is the human right to treat each other equally.
30.3.08 Awareness never fails:
The boy was admitted at the age of 3. But I never believed that. I saw him as an underdeveloped growth to his age. Slowly many symptoms were observed by us. He is suffering from sever ‘’ attention syndrome and mental illness, because his mother leaves him by 6 a.m to work. His love has been taken away by his younger brother who is 1.5 years old.
But my awareness was more concerned with his pregency. His head is little large and he showed many symptoms like often getting mentally detattached from us, no language development and some times very high level of noise and shouting with cry.
Teachers said that he is behaving very babyish in my presence. He needs my warmthness but he can’t express any thing. He is just a doll in our hands. But his weight has increased after a month because of our care with special food, his rice smells badly.
I was waiting for more facts about the child. When ever I go first he enters with big shouting and cry then he expects me to take and hug and put on my laps to give mother’s touch, then he will be always with me and do his work. But he talks rarely. His growth and 1.5 year brother’s growth are the same. In these 10 days his brother has started talking fastly but he could not.
On 30th March we have asked his mother to come to discuss about the elder son’s education. While talking I just asked,’’ How was your second son’s pregnancy?’’
Immediately the poor lady started crying and narrated as follows,
‘’ When I got this kid in my pregnancy, mu husband treated me very rudely and every day troubled me after drinking. So every day was a fear because of my father – in – law and husband. One night I just took a secret rail to my mom’s place in Bangalore. There my poor mother cared me and every day I waited to eat a lot.
By 7.5 months suddenly this child got delivered in the home and he was just my palm’s size. My in laws and husband just left me for delivering this kid. My mother sold her lands and put him in a private hospital and for 3 months we cared him.
So he is special child. Later within a year I delivered the last one.
He has never taken even a drop of mother’s milk. So often he becomes ill….’’
Yes! All our doubts about the child got clarified. Yes this boy is not 3 years he is just 2.5 years. He is an immature child with traces of multiple syndromes especially Autism now. His pregnancy was very sorrowful because of fear and malnutrition. But God has showed him the school at right time and he is improving day by day physically.
Today he is showing few traces of autism and we are in need to care him with true dedication. He just needs our true love and care. Apart from that he is doing all Montessori activities, especially speech therapy.
Very recently we have observed him with urinary problems also. Today we want him get a complete scan and checked for normal internal organs. So we need help from our friends to help this boy. It costs RS.5000 for complete checkup and scanning.
So a child has a hidden child which will be brought out by nature. We feel empathy for the child and we want just to improve his personality and knowledge and to become normal. May God help us to care and treat more Saravanans in Namma Veedu Montessori House of Children’’.
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