Monday 26 December 2011

Cuteness overload: Little Prideens Santa look adorable

Ho Ho Ho !! Merry Christmas!!  I am Santa today”, greeted a cute little child, as I entered into the premises of Mother’s Pride School.  Christmas is just around the corner and I could already feel the pulsating excitement in the best Pre-school. I could see little Santas and fairies everywhere in the jubilant mood. There was joyfulness and merriment in the Mother’s Pride air. Later, I was told that there is Christmas celebration today.What apt an occasion could be for kids to have fun, other than Christmas? Yes, Christmas by default is a festival that comprises of all the ingredients of a child’s happiness with Santa
Claus and his gifts, Christmas tree, good food, candies and cakes; all together, making it memorable for children.During Christmas every school makes special preparations for the Christmas celebrations and creates joyous ambience and educates children about Jesus, his birth and related stories of Christmas. Various activities are held in the schools like carol singing, fancy dress, crafts, dancing, drama, group play etc. Christmas is a time for jingle bells and celebrations that surely brings good cheer on every child’s face.


Mother’s Pride pre-school is not far behind in gifting toddlers’ best memories on Christmas. The school is tastefully decorated with dazzling lights and Christmas tree.  The entrance is stunningly decked up with huge Santa Claus riding on his open sleigh along with his reindeer. Also, there are lots of gifts surrounding Santa. The whole creation is successful in being eye candy for parents and kids in the school. Parents along with their kids clicked pictures near it. Even I didn’t mind clicking a pic or two with the charming Santa. The whole day was planned as a celebration for tiny tots. One could hear resounding noise of the famous Christmas carol “Jingle bells” in cute little voices in the entire school.  The enthusiasm and the Christmas spirit were high amongst kids. Each class had its own Christmas tree decorated with stars and bells. There was fancy dress show, where each child in his own way felt proud of being the best Santa. There was distribution of gifts and candies to the toddlers. Kids were also treated with delectable cakes and pastries on the occasion. All together, it was wonderful and exciting day for little toddlers.


Wednesday 14 December 2011

How to choose Appropriate Day Care Centre for your Child?

Choosing appropriate child care for your little one may seem like a staggering job for parents. Of course, it is your job to ensure that your child is safe and happy in the child care.  The daycare should be such that reflects your style of parenting as well as provide good child care development. Having someone else look after your child is always a complicated choice to make. But nonetheless, it has to be done. To make the right choice you have to mull over many factors.

Here are some tips for making such an important decision.
  • Begin searching six months before you need child care facility for your child as best centers fill up fast.  It is always better to do a research of all day care centers available in the nearby location.
  • Prefer child care which is close to your home, in order to save your time commuting. 
  • Environment of day care should be welcoming and friendly. It should be a nurturing environment, where child learns and responds to things around him. 
  • It is best to get recommendations from other parents. Ask centre to provide you with names and numbers of their current clients. Take their opinion about day care. 
  • Choose day care that lets you pick up and drop off your child at different times. It should be flexible so that it gets convenient for you. 
  • Day care should have good ambience; suitable for the child. It should be colorful, bright, spacious and clean.  
  • The food provided at day care should be nutritious. Fresh fruit and vegetables, milk and milk products, lean and healthy protein, whole grain in the proper portions are a must. You child requires healthy food to grow.
  • Your child should be exposed to different activities throughout the day. Various kinds of toys and equipments present at the day care are important to keep the child engaged. As child spends very long day at the day care away from his parents. There must be crafts, construction toys, books and other important learning tools available for the children. 
  • Infant areas should be separate and quiet.
  • Avoid centers that don't allow you to visit and that don't have security cameras. The outdoor areas of the day acre should be properly fenced.
  • Always inspect the kitchen area of the day care and make sure it is clean and neat.
  • Mainly important thing is to make sure your child receives quality, specialized care in an environment that is fun, enlightening and nurturing.

Wednesday 23 November 2011

When and How to Start Toilet Training for Toddlers?

Learning to use the toilet is the big step for the toddler and parents. For toddlers it is something new to learn. Some children learn it quickly while others take more time to train. Each child learns at his own pace. It is important to wait until your child is ready to learn potty training. Don’t rush to teach your child. Keep patience and don’t consider toilet training as a project and don’t associate it with success or failure.
 
Recommended age to begin potty training

As such it is not easy to decide right the right age for potty training for your child. The pediatricians usually recommend age between 18 months to 36 months. Usually, it depends on the child's development and readiness. As before this age, most children's bladders empty so frequently, it becomes difficult for them to control. 

How Long Does It Take?
 
Obviously, the toddler doesn’t learn it overnight. The process easily takes between 3 to 6 months. This may differ from child to child, as may take less time or others may take more.
 
Tips for teaching toilet training -

• You can try to help your child recognize sensations like –“being wet” and "about to be wet" etc. Encourage your child to talk about these sensations whenever possible. Notice signs such as pausing while playing, when child becomes uncomfortable. Also, make the child notice these signs.
 
• It is important to make the child familiar with the bathroom equipments. A child who becomes familiar with bathroom procedures and equipment is more likely to get trained than others.
 
• Teach your child or make him practice lowering and raising training pants.
 
• Buy products that will help you to potty train your kid. Buy a handy potty chair on which the child may sit perhaps while you are in the bathroom yourself.
 
• Some toddlers may show sign of being mentally and emotionally ready but physically they may not be ready. They may not be able to handle the pressure. Therefore, best is- rather to struggle to potty train your child it is best to wait.
 
• Overall potty training process requires complex combination of physical and cognitive tasks. Your child has to learn to associate to the physical sensation with the proper response.
 
• More than the child it is the parents, who need to be ready to start the toilet training process. At least one parent requires devoting time and energy to toilet train the toddler.

Monday 14 November 2011

Celebrating Childhood on Children’s Day

Time for fun n frolic and abundant delight as Children’s Day is here to make all toddlers smile.  Yes, it’s 14th November and whole of our country celebrates it as Children’s Day.  The occasion is commemorated to pay tribute to the India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his birthday. All children lovingly called him ‘Chacha Nehru’ and he truly cherished this endearing name.

He had great love for roses and often children used to gift him one. He felt children were just like roses and he compared them. According to him, children were like the buds in the garden and they should be nurtured carefully and lovingly. He also often used to say that – children are the future citizens of the nation and thus they were real strength of our country and foundation of the society.

Children are like precious gems. They are divine gifts from god to the parents. Their innocent smile and laughter makes everything so colorful and bright. Truly, they signify pure and faithful love. Therefore, Nehru emphasized the importance of giving love and affection to children.

Amidst all this celebrations, one should not forget Chacha Nehru's real message. That is providing our children with a safe and loving environment to the children, in which they can grow with ample and equal opportunities. This day serves as a reminder to every one of us to renew our commitment for the welfare of children.

Celebrations in schools

Most schools hold cultural performances on Children’s Day. One such popular school – Mother’s Pride held fest on the occasion.  Children rejoiced the most as the day was filled with fun and fanfare. There was singing, dancing and storytelling and what not.
The children were let loose to enjoy to the hilt. There was no stopping for the little ones and whole environment of the school was filled laughter and smiles of the toddlers.  The school arranged special treat for the kids and the highlight was a little candy stall, that witnessed huge crowd of kids. All together, kids had gala time. They hoped celebrations would never end.


Thursday 10 November 2011

Right Age for Toddlers to begin Reading

Toddlers are at a stage where they are learning a language and familiarizing it.  Also, it is a stage when they are building their communication skills and experimenting with new words and vocabulary. Reading at such crucial juncture can help toddlers to spark up their brain development and imagination. Though every parent is aware of the fact that reading is essential for over-all child’s development but they don’t know what age to pursue their little ones to read?

What age is right age?

Children usually don't start reading before the age of 5 or 6 that’s because its takes time for toddlers to develop neural connections with printed letters and they learn slowly to decode them.
Though reading for toddlers sets the foundation for later independent reading. But before they can read independently, they need emergent literacy skills, which include – basic understanding that marks on a page represent letters and words and knowing the letters of the alphabet, knowledge of vocabulary and its usage, most importantly they need understanding of phonemic awareness.

Parents can read to their child as often as possible. It is the best way to help him or her learn to read independently. Reading words while pointing them out to the toddlers helps them to connect the sounds to words.

Choosing books for young toddlers

Toddlers have a very short attention span, and it is very difficult to keep them focused for long. It is natural for such young children. That’s why interactive books are recommended for them. By using interactive books or tools with interactive stories, the toddler improves his/her vocabulary and develops language comprehension well.

Picture books - Toddler books with pictures provide more elaborate plots and illustrations that catch attention of the little ones. Subjects range from ABCs to animals, feelings to favorite characters.

Colors and Shapes- Toddlers are dazzled by bright colors and bold shapes. One can try books which features familiar objects that will teach children basic information in an appealing, hands-on format. 

ABCs-  Playing with letter blocks and singing the alphabet song are must-dos for ABC learning, but these educational books will captivate your toddler and set them on the path to letter recognition.
                           
These types of books are great to introduce your little one to the pleasures of reading, and most have educational benefits as well.

Saturday 22 October 2011

Imbibing Traditions And Customs In Children During Diwali

Diwali is a special time for bonding and sharing. Festivals serve as a great pretext to make children understand the rich traditions of India. Like on other festivals, during Diwali too various rituals are observed. Rituals only make us aware of our culture and moreover in urban homes this is the best way to take time-out from work and spend time with the family.

It is wonderful time during festivals to make children aware of our great epics. Therefore, during Diwali parents and elders at home must narrate the story of Lord Rama’s Victory and the legends of Mahalakshmi to the children. Kids should be taught right moral that is the triumph of good over evil.


Celebrations at schools

School also plays vital role in enlightening children about various festivals. Diwali is one such main festival and schools on this occasion celebrate it in full swing. For play-schools, it is even more important as toddlers have to be made acquainted about the whole concept of Diwali.

Children on this occasion need to be taught true meaning of the festival. Through various activities in schools , children are taught to share candy and sweets, decorating school and home with lighting lamps and diyas (small clay pots which are lit like luminarias) .

Mother’s Pride, one such play–school which makes this festival truly memorable for kids by organized various activities and events for the little ones. Students were taught to greet everyone ‘Happy Diwali ‘on the occasion.

There was also enchanting medley of songs in schools that moved all. The dance performances by toddlers drew much applause from the enthralled audience. Children altogether had gala time in Diwali celebrations.

Tuesday 4 October 2011

Victory Of Good Over Evil



Dussehra, one of the most important festivals of India, epitomizes victory of good over evil. As on this day, Lord Rama (son of King Dushrath) killed Ravana (King of Lanka). Popularly known as Vijayadashmi, it is celebrated differently in different parts of the country. Generally, celebrations of Dussehra last up to 10 days. On the tenth day of Navratra, the fast is ended and celebrations of Dussehra are held. This festival is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, Kumbarkaran and Megnath. Also, performances of the Ramlila (a short version of the epic Ramayana) are held at several places in Northern India. Dussehra also reminisce end of exile of Pandavas and their return to reclaim the kingdom as per the Mahabharata epic.

Vijayadashami is also celebrated to rejoice the victory of Ma Durga over demons, especially execution of Mahishasura by her. It is celebrated to honor goddess Durga, who fought with Mahishasura for nine nights and killed him on the tenth day.  
Also, Vijayadashami is the day of the Saraswati or the deity of knowledge and learning.

Festivals Help Kids To Understand Culture Better

Festivals help to draw children closer to the culture. Celebrations not just at home but at school also aid in promotion of Indian ethnicity. Keeping this spirit alive, Dussehra was celebrated at Mother's Pride School in big way.  The classes were decorated magnificently according to the Dussehra theme. The whole ambience of the school gave a new festive look.

As a whole, it was a mythological week in Mother’s Pride school. Many events were organized. One of them was fancy dress, where tiny toddlers came dressed as Lord Ram, Sita , Laxman and Raavana. Spiritual and devotional songs were played and little ones performed on them. Also, mythological tales and fables about Lord Ram were narrated to the kids, to familiarize them with the epic Ramayana.

Saturday 1 October 2011

Remembering ‘Bapu’

Birthdays and anniversaries serve as good mementos and provide us the chance to relive those moments again. October 2nd does the same for us. It offers an opportunity to pay respect to the great figure who unwaveringly led our nation towards Independence.  

Gandhiji is proudly called as the ‘man of the century’. He had the courageous heart and a fearless spirit. His life reflected ideals of humanity and values of the country. He had been a beacon of light for many freedom fighters determined to fight for the independence of the country. The day is declared as national holiday due to which offices and colleges remain close. Prayer ceremonies are held at Rajghat, where people from different communities and religious background pay homage to the inspiring leader of the nation. 

Celebrations in schools 

Several commemorative ceremonies are held at different schools, where students actively participate. Different schools celebrate Gandhi Jayanti in different ways.

At Mother's Pride, gala ceremonies were held on the occasion. The entire school was brimming with the ‘Gandhian’ spirit. One could see toddlers dressed as Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, Bhagat Singh, soldiers and others. Children held placards conveying the message of peace and non-violence. Students paid tribute to the leader by reciting poems and singing patriotic songs. Also, little ones danced on the songs of the movie ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai’.  The main highlight was the song ‘Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram’, which was sung in his memory. 

Along with that, quiz was also held for the children, where they were asked questions about Gandhiji. The purpose was to make children acquainted with Gandhian concepts and glorify ideas like peace, non-violence etc. Also, to make them aware of Gandhi ji’s role in the Freedom struggle. 




Tuesday 27 September 2011

Simple Tips and Tricks for New Moms and Moms-to-Be

Being first-time mother is a wonderful feeling. Generally new moms get intimidated by people around her telling what to do and what not to do. Being a parent is not something that you can really prepare for. Just listen to your instincts and you will know what to do. Try and follow few tips that will guide you towards better parenting -

Get good prenatal and postnatal multiples: Good nutrition is very important for new moms and soon to be moms, particularly, during development of fetus. A good healthy diet will not only boost energy for new moms but will also increase nutrients for both you and your baby.

Breast feed your child: Breast-feeding is the most healthy and preferred method for feeding an infant. Breast milk provides specific nutrients for immune system. Breastfeeding protects against wheezing, respiratory tract illnesses in the first four months, particularly when other risk factors are present.

Avoid Diaper Rash: Change diapers frequently. Rashes can be avoided by keeping baby’s skin clean and dry. Allow diaper area to dry before reapplying diaper. Protect your baby’s tender skin with a diaper rash treatment.

Nurture yourself and Sleep whenever you can: Try to rest whenever baby is asleep or being cared for by someone else. You are putting out an enormous amount of energy. It is important to recharge your batteries. Take a break. Take advantage of relatives or friends wanting to watch the baby for a few hours, or even overnight, if it's convenient for you.

Co-sleeping: Co sleeping promotes bonding and enables mother and baby to sleep better and for longer hours. You could actually sleep better when the baby sleeps next to you rather than in another room or bassinet. 

Cuddle your baby: Babies up to 4 months old love being swaddled and cuddled; it recreates the warm, cozy feeling of being in uterus. So, cuddle your baby as much as you can.

Trust your instincts: Last but not least, trust your instincts. You know your baby better than anyone else. Every day you will know more than you did before, so celebrate being a mommy!!

Saturday 3 September 2011

Relevance of Teacher’s Day

What does school life reminisces about? Friends, wild pranks, homework, detention etc. Along with that there is one more important aspect of school life that is our relationship with our teachers, which we cherish throughout our lives and even share it with our children. We all have had some share of lovable and interesting memories associated with our teachers. Duly, a special day is kept to honor and admire educators of schools and colleges, which is called as Teacher’s Day. It is celebrated across India on 5th September every year with great passion and pride. This day gives you an opportunity to express your gratitude towards your teachers.  It is truly said that there is no noblest profession or more valuable employment to a state than teaching. Everyone must realize the importance of the Teacher’s Day as the day signifies the tribute to all teachers who have made noteworthy contribution in our lives. Teachers not only play a role in imparting academic knowledge but also impart ethical and moral values in children. They in a way lend a hand in overall development of the child. Moreover, they play a major role in developing students into best citizen of the nation. Basically, this memorable day is devoted to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of the greatest teachers and scholar of our country. 

Origin of Teacher's Day

It is actually birth anniversary of the former President of India Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan which is observed as Teacher’s Day. One day his students approached requesting him to allow them to celebrate his birthday. But, instead Dr, Radhakrishnan told them that not to celebrate his birthday separately, rather it would be his privilege if September 5th is observed as Teacher's day. Then since 1962, 5th of September is celebrated as Teacher's Day. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakhrishnan was a renowned philosopher and a teacher of par excellence, who wanted to bring revolutionary change in the educational system across India and he wanted to achieve that by improving quality of education. He strongly believed that only the right kind of education can solve many problems of the society and the country. 

Wednesday 24 August 2011

Little Krishna, Radha and Gopis Dazzled at Mother’s Pride

Janmashtami marks the celebration of the birth of the Lord Sri Krishna. Also known as Gokulashtami, it is celebrated with pomp and splendour across India. The cultural aspect of Janamashtami is depicted by traditionally dressed devotees visiting the temples and praying to the deity. The raas or dance is another highlight of the celebrations that adds to the spiritual fervour.  Generally, devotees observe fasting on the first day of the festival until midnight, when Lord Krishna was believed to have been born. At midnight, a traditional prayer is offered. Special baby cradles are installed and decorated in the temples and a small idol of Lord Krishna is placed in them. The most elaborate rituals take place at Mathura, where Lord Krishna was born. To commemorate the occasion schools celebrate the event with fun and frolic.  
          
                      Mother’s Pride school branches also rejoiced the festivity in full swing with tiny tots. Children looked adorable decked up as Krishna, Radha and Gopis. The whole festive feel reached a new level when little ones performed and danced. The lovable dandiya performance by kids truly mesmerised staff and teachers.  Adding to the gaiety was the wonderful environment and ambience of the school. The schools were decorated with flowers, balloons and rangoli. The main highlights were painted mud pots kept in a row filled with flower petals and a representation of Vasudev carrying infant Krishna in the basket. The school celebrated Krishna Janmashtami with great pomp and grandeur. To conclude it was a lively atmosphere, the day was enjoyed by the students and all the staff members.

Saturday 20 August 2011

Patriotic Presentations by Children Add Colours to the Independence Day Celebrations


To raise the spirit of patriotism in the budding toddlers, Independence Day was celebrated on 12th August in all the branches of Mother’s pride pre-school. The children looked amazing in the bright and colourful costumes. Some were dressed as national heroes and freedom fighters, while others adorned tri-colour dresses.

Several cultural programmes were organised to familiarize tiny tots with the importance of freedom. The celebration commenced with flag raising ceremony which took place within their premises of the school. Tiny tots hummed National Anthem and saluted as the flag unfurled.  It was followed by songs, dance and performance by the kids.

It was an absolute delight to watch little ones perform on patriotic numbers paying tribute to the freedom fighters. Along with that, kids also indulged in the tri-colour painting event. Later on, kids relished sumptuous sweets and snacks on the occasion. All together, the sentiment of pride and patriotism for the nation was the key element of the celebration.

Independence Day is the day of pride and glory for any country. This day is commemorated by flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs all over the country. These celebrations fortify national spirit in the people. Also, on this occasion people mark the day by reminiscing heroes of our freedom struggle. Schools and colleges across the country celebrate the day with pomp and show. Overall, everybody on this day is overwhelmed with a patriotic fervour and the day is solely dedicated to those men who awarded us with identity called INDIAN.