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P.18 Cover Story

Early education in Preschools

ARE CHILDREN GETTING THE BEST?

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Parent Circle

Relationships I Health I Nature I Culture I Learning I Activities

editorial

For the Parent in you To know, to understand, to connect

T

oday, as I am evaluating colleges for my son who will be completing his 12th standard next year, I cannot help reflecting on his educational journey that began 17 years ago as an infant with books and toys and explorations at home and outside. Yes, I was then an over enthusiastic

mom, wanting him to learn anything and everything. He went to his first parent-child playschool when he was just 1½ years old. By 2 ½ years I sent him to preschool five mornings a week. He cried his whole first week.

By 5 years he was not only sent to an all day school, but in my desire to expose him to various activities, I enrolled him in several afterschool activities as well. I soon realised my folly when he would often come home complaining of headaches and throw tantrums.

I was wiser with my second one. My daughter went to preschool only 2 mornings a week and went to only half a day of kindergarten when she was 5 years old.

As any child expert would vouch, the first five years are the most formative and crucial years in the

Find us on

child’s intellectual, emotional and social development. It is important that during these crucial first years, the child develops strong bonds with his parents, secure in the comfort of having his mother or father around him as much as possible.

However, in today’s changing family environment, often with both parents working, it becomes necessary to look at alternative care for the child. Yes, and as parents we want to ensure that our children get a head start in their education. Under these circumstances, at what age should we send our children off to preschool? How do we choose the right preschool for our children? These are some of the topics Parent Circle explores in our special story on choosing preschools.

In celebration of Chennai week in August, our cover story gives you short takes on the various aspects of Chennai’s heritage, fun facts, its culture and food.

In view of Indian Independence day on August 15th, we take time to reflect on the freedom and values envisioned by our freedom fighters. How can we inculcate this spirit of independence in both our children and ourselves?

As I leave it to you to explore this issue further, remember that you as a parent are the child’s first and best teacher.

Nalina Ramalakshmi PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nalina Ramalakshmi

CREATIVE HEAD Rangashree Srinivas

HEAD - OPERATIONS Neeta Kamath

MANAGING EDITOR Nitya Varadarajan

VISUALISER G Swarupa

ADVERTISING General Manager S Visalam

ASSISTANT EDITOR S Sudha

GRAPHIC DESIGNER M Ravisankar PRODUCTION CONSULTANT Poochi Venkat

CIRCULATION C Ganesh S Thirumalai ADMINISTRATION Sheeja Sasindran

PUBLISHED BY Nalina Ramalakshmi Director, Shri Harini Media Pvt. Ltd. (A Ramco Group Associate) 8/14, First Cross Street, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020 PRINTED BY R Dhayalan, Sun Graphics, 51, Gangai Amman Koil Street, Vadapalani, Chennai 600026 To advertise in this magazine call 044 24461066/67/68 or email advertise@parentcircle.in

Parent Circle is published by Nalina Ramalakshmi, Shri Harini Media Pvt. Ltd. All editorial material including editorial comments, opinions and statement of facts appearing in this publication, represent the views of its respective authors and does not necessarily carry the endorsement of the publishers. Information carried in Parent Circle is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. The publication of any advertisements or listings is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product or service offered.

www.parentcircle.in

1

COVER STORY

Early education in Preschools Are children getting the best?

SPECIAL

P.18

Celebrating Chennai Madras Day Special

A few Chennai preschoolers

REGULARS

RESOURCES 38

CHECK IT OUT Good Reads for All Ages

10 MINDSET To Salute the Spirit of Independence Day

46

PARENT CHEF Tri-colour Delights!

12 LEARNING Learning to Listen

48

HANDS ON Palm Frond Puppet

53

CLASSIFIEDS

54

EVENTS Chennai this Month

6 IN FOCUS

Write Away

24 DESTINATIONS Down ECR 34 TEEN CIRCLE Be a Parent, not a Friend

FORUM

36 TECH TALK Academic Help on the Net 40 CIRCLE OF LIFE Pets and You 44 HEALTH CIRCLE Learning to Recognise and

Prevent Dental Problems

49 ROOTS Understanding Lakshmi ON THE COVER TANVI KAMAT AT KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE TANK PHOTOGRAPH BY ARJUN DOGRA

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Parent Circle / August 2011

8

PARENT EXPRESS Making Moves in the

Jigsaw Puzzle of Education

50

VIEWPOINT Learning Can Be Fun!

52

DISCUSSION POINT Reality Shows

56

LIGHTER VEIN I Can Wait

your word

Letters to the Editor

TERS

BEST LET

I am an avid reader of your magazine and I must congratulate your team for coming up trumps, every issue. My only son is 22 years old, and actually I am done with parenting. But the point I want to make is that there is enough intrigue in your content to

How lucky I was to find your magazine

mesmerise anyone.

in my friend’s house. I grabbed the same

The first thing I look for is your cookery column. This issue's

and went through every page. I missed Dr Pugazhendi's recent camp for senior citizens but his article came as a solace to me. Your magazine is full of information and guidance for young mothers. How I wish there was such a magazine when I was young. Then I was seeking help and guidance from my in laws, parents and friends to bring up my sons. Even now, as my grand daughters are growing, I would like to read your magazine and discuss subjects with my daughters-in-law.

KAMAKSHI SUNDARAM, Mother of two sons and grandmother of three girls

centrespread, 4 week lunch menus is innovative. The articles in Lighter Vein make for great reading. The Teen Lingo article, threw a lot of light on the jargon around me. Scaling the Himalayas was an eye opener and the success stories made interesting reading too. The article on puppetry is also a must read! The Tao of Vegetable gardening gave me a lot of pointers for making my small balcony garden house-proud. In short, a thoroughly enjoyable and refreshing July issue.

SUDHA RAJA, musician and home-maker The sports article in the July issue was amazing. The concept, the way it was designed, was totally different. The article brings awareness to the layman on the importance of sports and playing it for fun, health and competition. I liked the

I find that in Parent Circle, from cover

holistic approach!

to cover, the content points to a fantastic

When we were young, we played games and sports for the fun

effort. Though many of your readers ought

of it. Later, we grew into the competitive groove. But it is totally

to be parents like myself, we can relive

different today. Parents ask of a coach the day they enroll the

our childhood and growing up years. It is

child, “When will he (the child) get his medal?” Many still do

important that your articles carry more of

not know the hard work and commitment this involves, both

what goes on in the mind of children, so that

from their side and the child’s. I hope to see many such articles

parents can identify with them more closely.

in future.

TK SRINIVAS CHARI, father of a

B GIRISH, father of a 9-year-old girl

14-year-old girl I found the magazine quite interesting. The recipes were very What I like about Parent Circle is that it

good. However, the 4 week lunch menus, though good in terms

appeals to all the cross-sections of people.

of concept, were not practical in terms of bus snacks.

There are takeaways on Parenting, Health and Culture. I liked the ‘Sports’ recipes in the July issue, and I am a student of catering myself! The language is excellent. It can be appreciated by the erudite as well as the Please send in your letter with the subject line “Letters to the Editor”, before August 15, 2011, to editorial@ parentcircle.in or send them to PARENT CIRCLE, 3rd Floor Shri Renga Vihar, 8/14 First Cross St, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020, India.

4

common man, who is not so high-brow.

The Sports article was greatly refreshing and different. There were no long passages on cricket! I feel that cricket is killing other sports and the time spent on other sports goes unrecognised. The focus on the Olympic sports is laudable.

THALAIVASAL VIJAY, father of two children

Parent Circle / August 2011

Children tend to get squeezed in buses; often their bags are kept in a different place away from their seats. How can they eat aaloo chat or rajma salad as a bus snack? Also, I doubt if cut fruits will stay fresh till the end of a school day, given Chennai’s weather conditions.

I would humbly suggest that the child eat a couple of biscuits, or a little namkeen or chips (even if this is unhealthy) from a convenient tear-off-pack that he can keep with him.

NISHA RAJASHEKAR, mother of an 8-year-old boy

in focus

18

memos from child to parent

1. Don’t spoil me. I know quite well that I ought not to have all that I ask for. I’m only testing you.

2. Don’t be afraid to be firm with me. I prefer it. It makes me more secure.

Constantly shifting a child from one school to another can cause severe behavioural problems especially in the current generation of children, according to a research by experts in child psychology. After a shift in the learning environment, it might take 1-2 years for a child to develop a bond or rapport with its teacher. It could also affect

3. Don’t let me form bad habits. I have to rely on you to detect them in the early stages.

the child’s learning ability for children between the age group

4. Don’t make me feel my mistakes are sins. It upsets my sense of values.

These revelations were brought to the fore at an international

5. Don’t correct me in front of people, if you can help it. I’ll take much more notice, if you talk quietly with me in private.

6. Don’t protect me from consequences. I need to learn the painful way, sometimes.

7. Don’t take too much notice of my small ailments. Sometimes they get me the attention I need.

8. Don’t nag. If you do, I shall have to protect myself by appearing deaf.

9. Don’t forget that I cannot explain myself as well as I should like. This is why I’m not always very accurate.

10. Don’t make rash promises, remember that I feel badly let down when promises are broken.

11. Don’t tax my honesty too much. I am easily frightened into telling lies.

12. Don’t be inconsistent. That completely confuses me and makes me lose faith in you.

13. Don’t tell me my fears are silly. They are terribly real and you can do much to reassure me, if you try to understand.

14. Don’t put me off when I ask questions. If you do you will find that I stop asking and seek my information elsewhere.

15. Don’t ever suggest that you are perfect or infallible. It gives me too great a shock, when I discover that you are neither.

16. Don’t ever think it is beneath your dignity to apologize to me, an honest apology makes me feel surprisingly warm towards you.

17. Don’t forget I love experimenting. I couldn’t get on without it. So please put up with it.

18. Don’t forget that I can’t thrive without lots of understanding and love, but I don’t need to tell you, do I? Source: Creskindia.com

6

SCHOOL CHANGE AFFECTS CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOUR

Parent Circle / August 2011

of 5 -10 years. conference on behavioural sciences hosted by CARE (Centre for Applied Research and Education) and Help Child Charitable Trust recently. The theme was ‘Managing Behavioural Problems in Children and Adolescents’.

The research also concluded that advances in technology, the Indian ranking system and a deviation from the traditional joint family system could also cause similar changes in the behaviour of children.

Pedal power to spread environmental awareness To spread environmental awareness, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board and Active Bicyclers Association have been organising a cycle yatra across India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Thirty students of Acharya Nagarjuna University are participating in the yatra, of which the second phase from Vijayawada to Kanyakumari concluded recently.

During the yatra, cyclists hold sign boards displaying awareness slogans and issue pamphlets to passers-by on the road. They meet heads of various organisations to stress the importance of cycling and public transport; they also emphasise the importance of pollution control across the state and spread the message on clean environment. The third phase of the trip from Srinagar to New Delhi is scheduled for this month.

Chennai gets its first French school The Ecole Franco Indienne Sishya has opened its doors to a group of eight expatriate students on the campus of the Sishya school in Adyar, beginning August 1. The school, set up with the involvement of Michelin India Tamil Nadu Tyres, will initially have only primary classes. Students can now learn French language, history, geography and a few other subjects but for core subjects like mathematics and science, they have to join regular students.

parent express

A

bout three years ago, thanks to the vagaries of my husband’s profession, I found myself living without him and left with the sole responsibility of my son and his schooling. He had just then completed his 9th grade in an American school and

was playing competitive sport.

I moved to Chennai. The American School in Chennai was not a viable option due to prohibitive costs. After much deliberation and realising the futility of attempting the CBSE Board in grade 10 at that stage, I decided to opt for an online American programme to complete his 10th grade. This entailed tuitions everyday and I had to reinvent the wheel of going through high school all over again in a new milieu. The challenge here was of time management and continuously motivating my son in a situation without peers. With some effort and struggle, the 10th grade was completed.

Gowri Tirumurti

Then it was time for class 11 and I had to help him choose subject streams. Realising the importance of the sciences, and wanting to keep up with his sport, we arrived at an institute which imparted British education making it possible to appear for the wellacclaimed A level exams. With the father still in-absentia, I had to double up as a punching bag and mentor, all at once. In due course, it was time to apply for college and University. After considering various options, we finally decided to explore Engineering as the most appropriate course.

This signalled in a dizzying spell of sleepless nights. Here was a boy who had completed part of his high school in the American system, and the rest by way of the British. While all of these matched corresponding Indian standards, we had to break into acceptability standards of the Indian education system. Earlier, extensive research had convinced me that the boy’s academic background would get him extra credits in the best American colleges. Armed with this confidence, my son and I decided to cross every hurdle. There were no ready answers as this was an unprecedented case. We pushed tirelessly in every quarter as I had the confidence that his grades had been matching up to the required standards.

After a six month battle, my son finally got into a premier institution in the city. A new routine started for him – early rising, long bus rides, and becoming part of tens of students in one class from diverse backgrounds, vastly different methods of instruction, and emphasis on rote learning… things that he was not used to, not having gone to regular school for three years.

A certain sort of self-sympathy crept into him, for no fault of his. He could not accurately make out whether his efforts were enough, what more was required, where he stood in a class of 60, how much more he had to toil and where he could reach if he did so.

I have realised that this is something my son would have to discover for himself as much as I would like to hold his little finger through this expedition. The formula will just have to come from within. If he had been under his father’s watchful eyes, his transition into the real world would have been much easier. I realise that though I try to transform into a dad to meet the need of the hour, I am only perceived as a mom. As the poor boy is toiling and experimenting on his own to figure out his best course of action, I hope the missing pieces of the puzzle will soon fall in place to offer him a comfortable way ahead. n Gowri Tirumurti is an Intellectual Property Attorney in Chennai and mother of teenagers playing competitive International Tennis.

Write to us on parenting experiences in 600 words, with the subject line ‘Parent Express’ to editorial@parentcircle.in or send them to PARENT CIRCLE, 3rd Floor Shri Renga Vihar, 8/14 First Cross St, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020, India.

8

Parent Circle / August 2011

mindset

To salute the

spirit of

Rangashree Srinivas

R

abindranath Tagore dreamt of how

Yes, we all know that the country achieved

independent India would be in this

independence after a hard struggle

timeless poem, from his collection,

against British tyranny. Several freedom

‘Gitanjali’

Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high Where knowledge is free Where the world has not been broken up into fragments By narrow domestic walls

Looking deep into the self G Ramesh, father of a teenager, reflects on the modern Indian’s mindset,

fighters fought selflessly against Colonial

“Teachings of J Krishnamurti made me

oppression and freed our country and its

question the very idea of independence.

people. After 64 years of freedom, we do not feel the pain of that struggle.

To him, a man is truly independent only

Further, all that we are seeing and

activities. “He has thrown light on my

when he is completely free of self-centred

experiencing of the political climate of this

hidden motives and my pretensions - on

country is just corruption and greed. Even

my desire for money, safety and power,

the civic society – which is us – operates

Where words come out from the depth of truth

on selfish needs. How concerned are we

Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection

our children?

and the desire to dominate others. The Britisher of pre-Independence is still very

about our nation? What can we pass on to

much within me; he is none other than me – even now,” he says.

Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit Where the mind is led forward by thee Into ever-widening thought and action Into that heaven of freedom, my father, let my country awake.

How patriotic are we?

PHOTO CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way

What you can do everyday Respect rules; do not try shortcuts.

For instance, wait for your turn in a queue. Demolish the attitude – “if others don’t, why should I”.

Keep your city and country clean.

It is not enough to keep our home spic and span and allow the public areas to be full of garbage.

For us, Independence Day is just flag

Share civic resources. Take the

hoisting, some television specials and

aftermath of the Japanese Tsunami.

a holiday! Have we paused to think of

The affected people in Japan

the relevance of independence and its

behaved with complete responsibility

significance to us, as citizens of India?

and care towards others equally

Have we imbibed the true spirit of freedom

affected, unmindful of their own

as expressed by Rabindranath Tagore in

suffering. No looting, shoving,

the poem above?

grabbing from the downtrodden!

10 Parent Circle / August 2011

Sometimes a widely publicised dramatic act of an Anna Hazare or a Baba Ramdev stirs up nationalistic passions in our hearts.

Or if AR Rahman receives an Oscar, we are proud of our country.

Building a sense of nationalism Working for an integrated community leads to national health. Here are some ideas: z Take children to exhibitions on national and cultural heritage. The expo on wheels

However, we need to do more. First, we

conducted by the Indian Railways is a very exciting tour for children. You could also

need to have a clear sense of identity – of

take them to an ancient monument and weave a story around its architecture and

who we are and what we stand for. We

history. INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) has various

can begin by being responsible for our own actions and be aware of how it impacts the society. We can participate enthusiastically in activities that do not necessarily bring us direct benefits. We can expose our children to our heritage in a way that is

resources on this, so does the Internet. z Participate with your children in community-based events like walks for a cause – the ‘Chennai Half’ marathon is a fun-filled and proud city event. z Hold learning sessions in your home for your children, their friends and other children from lower economic strata like the

relevant to them.

Says Pradeep Chakavarthy, the author of ‘Thanjavur – A Cultural History’, “Our rich

flower seller’s daughter or your driver’s son. Let them learn from each other – a song, a skill or a language.

and ancient heritage is something that we

z Take up one community-based service every year on special

should be proud of and teach our children

occasions like birthdays – planting tree saplings, cleaning the

its value. This would be an important step

street, painting the wall of a Government school.

for children towards becoming upright citizens.” n

Be your child’'s role model • Work for the greater good.

• Be prepared to make sacrifices.

• Be honest and transparent in your dealings.

• Do not indulge in petty politicking within any group.

• Be a good team player.

• Avoid paying bribes to escape sticky situations or to get things done.

• Treat everybody with respect irrespective of their

z You could subscribe to a group or club that works for the greater good, like Greenpeace in India or Abdul Kalam’s Action 2020 group (contact Prime Point Foundation’s K Srinivasan at 91766 50273 in Chennai for details on Action 2020).

Parentspeak

by Subash Chandra “I AM INSPIRED ar-old Aadithya.

Bose”, says 13-ye ills of society with “We should fight the to we cannot afford strong measures; ”. ers to be soldi be saints, we need responsible boy. He Aadithya is a very and wants our city values cleanliness t re! We have taugh to be like Singapo men. him to respect wo r. ar, Aadithya’s mothe Aparna Chandrashek

AS A TEACHER in Hari Shree Vidyalaya, we plan interesting activiti es according to age levels, around Indepe ndence Day. For instance, the primary cla ss children I handle, once noted down streets named after freedom fighters and presented this in class. Now they can relate better to stories on the freedom struggle. As a family, we like to take part in city-based civic events like the Chennai marathon to support cau ses and for a sense of belonging.

My great grandfather wa s the Tamil Thatha Uve Swaminathan. My dau ghter, inspired by him, reads excerpts from great Tamil works like Silapathikaram. My husban d converses with her on current affairs and she is quite aware of what is going on around her.

Mala Raghunath,

social status or ability.

mother of Niveditha, 9

• Protest against injustices

years.

happening before you.

www.parentcircle.in 11

learning

Learning to Aruna Raghavan

A

t Shikshayatan, we were conducting a workshop for teachers where there was a prominent slot on the art of giving and interpreting instructions. We divided them into small groups and set a task: they had to find and categorise all the gadgets

used as teaching aids in their school. We gave them 15 minutes to present their work.

Find and categorise all the gadgets used as teaching aids.

At the end of their presentation we went over their analysis of the question. The key words are: gadgets used as teaching aids in the school, find, categorise. Even they were surprised at the number of instructions they heard that were never given: n Eager to make the longest list, they included gadgets that were not used as

teaching aids

n Teaching aids that were not gadgets, were listed n Some teams did not classify them n One team put the lot as just audio-visual aids n They thought it was some kind of competition and tried to be ‘the best’ team n They refused to help each other

By the time we finished there was a lot of laughter and the idea that went home was: when teachers give instructions in class, are they absolutely clear? After all, it is obvious we hear more than is asked or said.

When a mother asks her child, “Have you done your homework?” the answer is rarely a direct no or yes. The answer ranges from ‘I went to Anil’s house’, ‘I will do it after dinner’, ‘I was going to, but you came early’. The question is always perceived as loaded and the child gleefully sets to deflect it.

‘Why did you go to Anil’s house?’ in an angry voice will bring a smug: ‘We did the home work together’. ‘Why after dinner?’ thunders the mother and the child says, ‘because I called daddy and he said he would help me after dinner’.

12 Parent Circle / August 2011

Sometimes we hear what we want to hear and our in-

Here is another example of hearing something other than what

terpretations are based on earlier experiences. To hear

was said:

what is said and to work on that, takes a quiet person.

Mother: Why don’t you wear the t-shirt I bought you to dinner

We could call it the Zen of listening.

this evening?

An important aspect of listening is to ensure that one

Son: I want to wear it tomorrow to school.

Mother: You did not like it.

Son: How does saying ‘I want to wear it to school tomorrow’ translate as ‘I don’t like what you bought me?’

has understood what has been said. For example, ‘Please pass me that medicine’ is a request. There are several possible responses to this. A quick glance at the speaker would tell the listener: where the person is pointing whether the speaker intends to take it right away whether he has water to swallow it Now, he has choices: to do as asked and wait or to go and fetch the water. n

Here are a number of exercises that can be done in a class as

Complex exercises for young adults calls for the students to

part of a language study, teaching children to listen carefully

make notes of the key words as they are spoken, to ensure they

and answer correctly without prejudice!

follow the instructions carefully. Obviously, the ones who follow will have an essay that meets the questioner’s requirements. In such

Simple exercises n use an atlas to find 5 places that fall on 30 degrees latitude n find 5 places that fall on 40 degrees latitude from

different continents

exercises, it is not so much the content that is evaluated as much as whether the student has covered the points raised. n You are a soldier in Alexander’s army. It is a month since you

have returned to Macedonia minus a king. Write 120 words about the political situation, slaves who are part of everyday life and the changes in culture including greeting, visiting, bearing gifts, festivities.

n find 5 places that fall on 15 degrees longitude

n You live in Ashoka’s time and everyone in the neighbourhood

n find 5 places that fall on 25 degrees longitude and in

is converting to Buddhism. You are the only Hindu left and are

different continents

wondering if you should convert too. Write in 250 words your ideas

n use a dictionary to find the meaning of adventure

of religion, conversion and power of an emperor.

n find different possible meanings of trick

n You are a satyagrahi who is in jail for participating in the Dandi

n write a sentence using both the above words n write five sentences about yourself; use one

sentence to describe yourself

n write about yourself, say what game you enjoy most

march. You receive a telegram saying that your son is born. If you sign a letter that you will never work against the British you could go home and see your child. Pen down your thoughts in 150 words. Remember to weigh both sides of the coin before you come up with a decision.

n write five sentences on what interests you

Complex exercises

These exercises help one to listen to instructions carefully,

n Find a round stone and write 30 words about it.

make a mental note of the salient points, to comply with

Include details of its colour, texture and

them and answer to the point. Answering a question

approximate weight.

actually involves language study, ability to interpret words,

n Pick a fallen leaf and describe it in 30 words. Give

to use words to frame a thought and present it as precisely

details of the holes and decoloured parts of the leaf.

as possible.

n Take a picture of your favourite monument and

describe its background in 40 words. n Take a soft toy, describe it and ask the reader to

Aruna Raghavan is an eminent educationist who runs a school in rural

guess what animal it is. Write in 15 words.

India called Shikshayatan.

www.parentcircle.in 13

learning

Write Away Usha Venkatesh

PHOTOS CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

Writing is a skill we all want our children to develop as they progress through school because we believe that as good writers they will have great opportunities in life.

Good writing doesn’t just happen; it is learnt and is a carefully crafted process.

Most of the writing we are called upon to do in life falls under two categories – creative writing and critical or analytical writing. In the previous issue, we looked at having Fun with Creative Writing. In this issue, we will talk about ways to encourage Critical or Analytical writing.

It’s all about the Journey: Focussing on Process rather than Product.

T

oo often, in writing as in all other

and drawing conclusions. It also involves

have a clear idea of what he knows about

aspects of life, we are focussed on

finding the right tone and voice, and the

the subject. This may or may not be what

the end product, while the actual

most appropriate form of delivery. In going

actually gets into the finished product; it is

learning happens in the process. They

through these steps, your child learns to

the starting point.

say that life is what happens while we are

become a better writer.

waiting or searching for our destination.

Research: This is the part when your

Whether it is creative or critical writing,

Brainstorming:

a lot happens during the process and

activity because it is limited only by your

topic, because what is the point of writing

knowing how to guide your child through

imagination and that of your child. At this

only what you already know? Research can

it can enhance your role in the learning

stage of writing, encourage your child to

often take the simple form of finding out

process.

put down any ideas and thoughts, however

what other people know about the topic.

What is the Writing Process?

remotely connected to the topic. The grain

Make this a fun activity by having other

can be separated from the husk at a later

older members of the family, including

stage. Here the idea is only to generate

parents, older siblings, grand parents,

ideas. Encourage even funny or absurd

uncles and aunts act as resources. With

Writing involves brainstorming to figure

ideas on the topic. Indulge in some free-

older children, encourage them to read an

out what you know about your topic,

writing – the process of writing nonstop for

article about the subject and assimilate

researching to learn more, focussing your

five minutes and putting down anything

one or two new ideas. Internet research

thoughts to suit the purpose, organising

that comes to mind. At the end of the

is the norm in your child’s world. Use the

your ideas, supporting your arguments

brainstorming process, your child should

opportunity to jointly figure out how to do8

14 Parent Circle / August 2011

This is a ‘great fun’

child begins to find out more about the

learning this and what to look for – you have to discern the right sources to approach while doing this research.

Focussing and organising ideas: By now your child has generated a lot of ideas – most often more ideas than what can fit into the scope of the assignment. Help your child focus on the assignment and drop those ideas that do not fit in – not everything you know or have learned has to be said in that one assignment. This is hard to do because we feel that we should say everything we know about a topic. However, not everything we know may be appropriate for the assignment. Help your child distinguish between major and minor ideas among the many that he has learned about the topic. It is often more important to write

Revising, Editing and Proofreading: No writing task is complete

process, unfortunately becomes the first

without these functions. In fact, writing is

to check the grammar and spelling of the

only half done before these steps of the process are accomplished. Revision, as my favourite composition teacher once told me, should be read as re-vision. It means to re-envision what one has written.

This cannot be done as soon as one finishes writing. One must walk away from the piece and come back to it as if with new eyes and examine it as if someone else has written it. Surely, you can write it better! Peer review works well at this stage. If you can get your child to write with friends and if they can revise each other’s writing just for fun, it would make

thing we pick on. As a parent, you have undoubtedly told your child countless times writing that she has completed. Even when we read the brainstorming pieces, our hands itch to correct the spelling. Desist!

Proof reading, the last stage, is when these issues need to be addressed.

Addressing errors from the beginning makes your child view writing as a process of error finding. No one enjoys having their mistakes pointed out. Make it fun to write by making error analysis an activity.

Give your child some passages with errors and the more errors that he can find, the greater the reward that he can have!

for a great exercise. Watch out for some

Finding errors takes practice.

fireworks!!

Writing is not the most natural activity your child will want to indulge in. It is up to you

convincingly about a few major ideas than

Editing can be more tedious and it involves

to list a number of minor points.

shortening, making it more precise and

Supporting arguments: Writing

correcting for consistency.

convincingly requires providing support,

Proof reading, which actually should

proof or examples. Help your child use the

be the last activity your child should

Usha Venkatesh is an English professor, social

research materials appropriately.

be engaging in as part of the writing

worker and mother of a teenager.

to make it interesting and rewarding! n

TACTILE LEARNERS Being highly tactile, these learners learn best through moving, doing things

E

and touching. They communicate

ach child has his own way of learning. As a parent, it is

best through gestures. A good way

important to recognise your child’s learning style. This will

to teach them is through hands-on

make it easier for the child to tackle his studies and for a

activities and experiments. Allow

parent to guide him. The different styles are outlined below with

such children to rock, swing legs

pointers to tackle them.

or play with pencils even as they

VISUAL LEARNERS These learners visualise their subject

study. They cannot sit still for long.

material by thinking in pictures. They learn best from maps, charts, diagrams, board and memory games and picture books. As you read aloud from their books, give them colour pencils so that they can draw while listening.

LOGICAL AND ANALYTICAL LEARNERS These children enjoy puzzles and like to know how things work. They try to understand things by using patterns and by constantly asking questions. Mental math problems, strategy

AUDITORY/LANGUAGE LEARNERS These learners learn

and computer games are easy for them. The best way to teach

best as they listen to others. Auditory learners enjoy listening to

them is through science experiments, using computer learning

the voice, tone and pitch and thus learn best from reading the text

tools and word puzzles. When reading fiction, discuss the story in

aloud. They can use a tape recorder to record their school work.

relation to real life situations and people. n

16 Parent Circle / August 2011

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special

M

usic and masala, colour and splendour, elegance and beauty, simplicity and sincerity‌that’s Chennai! This queen city of the South today is an amalgamation of what is left of its colourful history coupled with the influx of modernity. Let us celebrate Chennai - then and now - with a list of things that makes us love this city even more.

n at ural h e r it a g e Pul i ca t L a ke The second largest

brackish water lagoon on the Indian sub-continent, Pulicat Lake covers a total area of 461 square kilometres. During the monsoon (August or September), Pulicat Lake is filled with phytoplankton and zooplankton. These microscopic organisms constitute essential food for invertebrates and fish. As a result, thousands of birds are attracted to the lake.

Tambaram range of P a l l i k a r na i M a rs hl a nd the Forest Department recently, this fresh water swamp adjacent to the Bay of Bengal, is situated about 20 kilometres south of Chennai. The swamp is helpful in charging the aquifers of the region. It is one of the last few remaining natural ecosystems in the city.

Adyar E st u ar y a n d C re e k The portion

Ve d a ntha nga l Bi rd S a ntua r y Located

of water where the river meets the ocean is low in salinity and has high plankton availability which serves as a good nursery for fish. The flow of tidal water in and out of the creek earlier facilitated boat rides.

Gui ndy N at ion al P a r k The smallest

national park located in the heart of the city, the Guindy Park has over 350 species of plants and forms a natural destination for botanists.

Pal l i k a r n a i Ma r sh lan d Declared as a

reserve forest area and brought under the Mad ras H ig h Cou r t

in the Kancheepuram district about 75 kilometres from Chennai, Vedanthangal is home for migratory birds such as pintail, garganey, grey wagtail, blue-winged teal and common sandpiper. It is one of the oldest water bird sanctuaries in the country. Vedanthangal in Tamil means 'hamlet of the hunter'. This area was a favourite hunting spot for the local landlords 300 years ago. The region attracted a variety of birds because it was dotted with small lakes that acted as feeding grounds for the birds. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from November to March.

c ul t u ral h e r i t ag e South India has a rich repertoire of dance and music forms that seem to run in the blood of Chennaiites. Children, even before they can recite the alphabet, are sent to music and dance classes.

Though Carnatic classical and folk songs are popular, Bharatanatyam, a south Indian classical dance, is very much alive even today as it depicts mythological stories in the form of graceful movements. Street theatre is popular in the villages and it has become a source of education and entertainment for people as they depict history and mythology.

a rch it e c t ura l he r i t a g e N a ti o na l A r t G a l l e r y & M u s e u m T he a tre (Egmo re ) This is a repository of the traditional paintings of

structure surrounded by the cannons captured or used by the British during the wars.

Tanjore, Rajput, Moghul, Kangra and Deccani schools as well as modern paintings in oil, tempera, water colour and acrylic mediums. The gallery has a wide collection of Raja Ravi Varma paintings, which are considered as National Treasures.

M a dra s Hi gh C o ur t (Egmo re ) One of the three

Next to the gallery is the Madras Museum Theatre opened in 1896. Built by the British in IndoSaracenic style, the museum theatre is a grand

C he pa uk Pa l a c e & A mi r M a ha l (Wa l l a jah Road )

High Courts in India sanctioned by Her Majesty Queen Victoria in a letter bearing the date 26th June 1862, is a very good example of an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.

One of the earliest Mughal-style buildings in the city designed by the English engineer Paul Benfield

heritage

madras

Gemmarie Venkataramani

pl aces o f wor s hip

S ri Guru Na na k S a t S a ngh S a bha Gurudwa ra

San t h o m e B a silic a ( S a n tho m e H i g h R oa d ) The Basilica of the National

Shrine of St.Thomas was built over the tomb of St.Thomas, who is said to have come to India in 52 AD. This lovely Gothic Church is an architectural treasure, adorned with stained glass windows depicting St. Thomas and the other Apostles.

Walla ja h Mosq u e ( Tr i p l i c a ne H i g h R oa d ) Constructed in 1795 by the

Wallajah Nawab, the mosque is a granite structure. But it is different from other Mughal structures because it bears only the four minarets without a dome.

G uja rat i J a in t e m p l e ( M i n t S tre e t, Sow c a r p e t ) The 41 inches high idol of

Sri Parswanath found in this temple is made from Green Quartz, the first ever made from this material the world over.

The temple with three Gopurams of 67 ft from ground level, having the 23rd Jain Tirthankar Sri Parswanath as the

they specialise in tradition al food

main deity, was built by the Shri Gujarati Swetamber Murtipujak Jain Sangh Trust.

S r i G u r u Na na k S a t S a ngh S a bha G u r udwa ra (GN C he tty Ro a d) Built in

Gra nd S we e ts (A dya r, An n an ag ar, S pur ta nk Ro a d)

Kuzhi Paniyaram, Adai Aviyal S r i va r i S we e ts (A nna na gar)

Dhal powders, kozhakattai

1949 by Lieutenant Colonel Gill (former Director General of Prisons), Madras, this place of worship is for the Sikh community in Chennai. Devotees gather for prayers during the birth anniversaries of Guru Nanak, Guru Gobind Singh and Guru Arjun Dev. They also celebrate Baisakhi, a harvest festival.

Na tra j C o ffe e Ho use (nex t t o Raja S to re s No r th M a da S t - My lap ore)

M a ha bo dhi S a nga m Buddhi st Te mpl e ( K e nne th L a ne, Egmo re ) This temple

Idli, Vada, Dosa, Pongal for breakfast, Mixed rice for lunch, Dosa varieties for dinner (Closed on Sundays)

located opposite the Egmore railway station has a huge idol of Lord Buddha.

The Maha Bodhi Society of India was founded by one Anagarika Dharmmapala in May 1891.

Sevai, kozhakattai (sweet and savoury) S uswa a d (T Na ga r )

Sevai and Thanjavur traditional packed lunches M a mi K a da i (ne a r K a pa lees war te mpl e - M yl a po re )

K uz hi P a ni y a ra m

in 1768, the palace was the residence of the Nawabs of Arcot, once the rulers of Tamil Nadu. Situated next to the Chepauk Palace is Amir Mahal built in 1789, which belonged to the Royal family of Arcot.

Fort Sain t G e o rg e An architectural

marvel, the fort was built by the British East India Company in 1640 AD. It

was erected as a trading post, and later evolved to be the origin of the modern Indian Army. Within its boundaries is St. Mary's Church, one of the oldest surviving churches built by the British in India. This beautiful building with its glass windows, wall frescos, teak plaques still shine with their old glory. Another fascinating structure here is the 150-ft tall flagstaff, made entirely of teakwood. www.parentcircle.in 19

special

adventure zone G o -c a r t in g Kart Attack (OMR) - Ph: 044

28257744/ 24492386.

MRF Danny's Karting (ECR) - 044 25231512/13, 25231653 Kart Beat (Arcot Road) - 044 24836600 P a i n t- b a l l Planet Adventure

(Kottivakam) - 96000 16350

H orse b ack r id in g Red Earth Riding School (Tindivanam-

Pondicherry road) 96293 12071 e-mail: anngallopaway@yahoo.com Madras Riding School (Nichols Road, Chetpet) nvravi@ nvravi.in Phone: 98400 90045, 044 28362481, www.madrasridingschool.com Boatin g Tarsha Water Sports (ECR)

S p la s h D a s h ’N

theme parks

K i shk i nta (Ta mba ra m) Phone: 044 22512001, 22512002,

22512003, 22512004, 22512005, 32910078 www.kishkinta.in M GM Di zze e Wo r l d (M uttuk a du, EC R) Phone: 044 27472129,

9500063716/9500063717 www.mgmdizzeeworld.com

Que e nsl a nd T he me Pa r k Bangalore Trunk Road, Palanjur,

Chennai 602103 Phone: 26811124, 26811136, Weekly holiday: Monday

Phone: 98410 24429, 8270154, 8253004 Muttukadu Boat House (Mutukkadu, ECR) Phone: 99529 95827

Da sh ’N S pl a sh (C he nna i -Ba nga l o re Hi ghwa y)

I ce sk a t in g Pandora, Ampa Skywalk Mall (Nelson

VGP Go l de n Be a ch (I nj a mba k k a m, EC R)

Manickam Road) Phone: 30249494

Phone: 044 27156200/11, 98419 07322 www.dashnsplash.co.in

Phone: 044 24356900 www.vgpuniversalkingdom.in

C o tto n ( Pa nthe o n Ro a d) A variety of

street beat N o r th U s m an R oad

cotton from fabrics to ready-mades are available in every colour and price.

El e ctr o ni c s (Ri tchi e ’s S tre e t) It is

of fanciful and utilitarian lights for the home and office.

the second largest market for computer spares and peripherals in India with more than 900 shops.

Pl a nt Nur se r i e s (EC R) Visit the ECR

A u to m o bi l e s (Ge ne ra l Pa tte r s Ro a d)

A qua r i um a nd Or na me nta l Fis h (E as t M a da S tre e t a nd S o uth M a da St reet , K o l a thur ) Experience nature in your

From headlights to horns, bumpers to car seats, this is the place to go to satisfy the car lover in you.

S i l k a n d J e we l l e r y (No r th Usma n R o a d) Shops have a wide range of

beautiful silk sarees; the place is also the hub of jewellery retail - gold, diamonds and other gems.

20 Parent Circle / August 2011

L i ghts a nd fi tti ngs Te yna mp et (Mou n t Ro a d) The place offers a complete range

for the green thumb in you. Pick up pots and plants of all colours and sizes.

homes though these beautiful aquariums in all shapes and sizes.

Ba ngl e s (No r th M a da S tre e t, M yl a po re ) These bangles come in silver,

glass, wood and plastic, to adorn your outfit and add glitter to any occasion.

cosmopolitan madras places of interest Cho la m a n d a l A r t is ts ' V i l l a g e, (I njam b ak k a m , E CR) The largest artists'

commune in India, Cholamandal was established in 1966. Twenty resident painters and sculptors pool their skills and run the Artists Handicrafts Association, a cooperative which manages the village and sale of works S e m mo z hi P o o nga through the permanent exhibition at the complex.

Phone: +44-24490092, 24494053, e-mail: cholaartist@yahoo.co.in Dak sh in aC h it ra (M utuk k a du, E C R ) A project of the Madras Craft

Foundation (MCF), a non-profit organisation, DakshinaChitra is a centre for the living traditions of art, folk performing arts, craft and architecture of India with an emphasis on the traditions of South India. Phone: +4427472603, 27472783, e-mail: mcfdak@md3.nsnl.net.in Tou ch an d S m e ll G a rde n ( M S S wa m i na tha n R e s ea rch F o unda ti o n, Taram a n i) A garden with a difference, trees and plants are arranged not

based on casual selection or visual pleasure but to offer a pleasurable feel and aroma while learning about them. Tel: +91 (44) 22541229, +91 (44) 22541698, email: estatemanager@mssrf.res.in Semm o z h i P o o n g a ( C a the dra l R o a d- A nna S a l a i j unc ti o n) This

consists of twenty acres; it houses more than 500 species of plants and trees, most of them have been there for over a century. The garden takes pride in hosting some of the most exotic flora and rare plant species, medicinal and aromatic herbs.

Adyar P oo n g a (A dy a r ) This new park hosts several species of

amphibians like the soft shell turtle, the Brahminy skink along with the white breasted kingfisher, plovers, crustaceans and rare insects. Its environment education centre conducts awareness programmes about the wetland ecosystem.

V i v e k a na nda r I l l a m ( I c e Ho use, Be a ch R o a d ) This place, where Swami Vivekananda

stayed for nine days when he visited Chennai (then Madras) in 1897, now houses a permanent exhibition set up by the Chennai branch of the Ramakrishna Math.

street food

A t the be a ch Bajjis,

sundal, cut mango, roasted corn, masala peanuts Pa na ga l Pa r k (T Na ga r o utsi de Nalli) Cut

fruits – pineapple, raw mango sprinkled with salt and chilli powder, papaya, cucumber M o nti e th Ro a d (o utsi de A l sa M a l l )

Veg. sandwiches and bread omelette Nunga mba k k a m Hi gh Ro a d (Outsi d e Ran g oli) Chat and kulfi S owc a r pe t Sandwiches, Chat, juices

Chennai

• Is called the Detroit of India

due to its automobile industry producing over 40 percent of the country's auto parts and vehicles.

• Has the lowest pollution among major cities of India in spite of having more than 20 lakh vehicles.

• Is India’s fourth largest city and ranks among the fifty most populous cities in the world (#35).

• Shares the second position as the largest employment generator in India, along with Bombay.

The first is Bangalore.

• Has the largest bus stand in South Asia, the Mofussil bus stand at Koyambedu.

• Has the second longest beach in the world, Marina Beach ranks next to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.

• Has India’s first zoo, the Vandalur Zoo, built in 1855. It is also one of the largest in South Asia.

• Has the Theosophical Society in Adyar, the only place that houses a Buddhist shrine, a temple and a church. www.parentcircle.in 21

special Mudd u Tir u n arayan a Tem ple, S T D P a t h a sa l a , Jal l ad ia n p e t , P allik a ra na i

Music and dance are integral aspects of the unified experience of Bhakti. Sri Nathamuni, 9th Century AD, developed a unique one-man theatre based on the compilation of Alvars called “Araiyar Sevai”, for performance before the Lord and for spiritual education.

The Temple of Sri Muddu Tirunarayanaswami has been built specially to preserve and propagate this spiritual art. Twice every year, during January and June, the entire Divya Prabhandam is performed as Araiyar sevai for ten days. Children can attend special music camps.

Bo dygua rd M une e swa ra n Te mpl e, Pa l lavan Ho use The Bodyguard Muneeswaran Temple is

near Central Station. Scores of vehicles come here for puja and blessings for an accident-free ride.

In 1919, a group of labourers from North Arcot district brought the idol here and installed it under a neem tree adjoining military barracks. A commander of British troops took strong objection to this and ordered its removal.

However, he changed his mind after he met with an accident the same day and allowed the idol to remain there.

Pur i J a ga nna th te mpl e, EC R A replica of Orissa’s Puri Jagannath temple was constructed in 2001 in Kannathur on ECR. The temple is located in a serene atmosphere and the main deities are Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Balram and Subhadra. The temple houses shrines for other deities too and celebrates Rath yatra in a grand manner. Orissa’s Pata Chitra paintings adorn the temple.

K a l i k a m ba Te m p l e, T h a m bu C h e tty S tre e t, G e o rg e tow n

This temple enshrines Kalikambal (Kamakshi) and Kamateswarar and a host of parivara devatas. A hundred years ago, the great Maratha ruler Shivaji is said to have visited the Kalikambal shrine in Chennai, during his tour of southern India. The original temple was closer to the sea. Later the British relocated it.

lesser known temples and libraries Rangashree Srinivas

T he M a d ra s L i te ra r y S o c i e ty L i bra r y

Conne m a ra P u b lic L i bra r y

in Egmore is one of the four National Depository Libraries.

Established in 1890, it houses centuries-old publications and includes some of India’s most respected works and collections. The new building, an addition to the Library in 1973, also has a Braille Library and an IAS study centre.

Library timings: Monday to Saturday - 9 a.m to 7.30 p.m; Sundays - 9.30 a.m to 6 p.m

22 Parent Circle / August 2011

in the DPI Compound on College Road, Nungambakkam, is Chennai's oldest repository of books with its history dating to 1812. It is housed in a heritage building in Indo Sarcenic style and functions from 10 a.m to 5 p.m, Monday to Saturday. Contact the librarian at 044 28279666.

T he A nna C e nte na r y L i bra r y

opposite the Kotturpuram police station inaugurated last September is considered to be South Asia's largest library. An impressive statue of CN Annadurai greets visitors. The library has an 'own book reading' room and a Braille section apart from the children's and periodicals sections. It is open from 9 a.m to 8 p.m on all days. For details, contact: 044 65515031. visit www.annacentenary library.blogspot.com

Ro j a Mu t h iah Re se a rch Lib rar y

at Taramani is a well-maintained resource centre. It is a tribute to Roja Muthiah Chettiar from Kottaiyur, a signboard artist who had collected about 1,00,000 books, periodicals and other resource material during his lifetime. The University of Chicago took this over in 1994. It is open from 9.30 a.m to 5 p.m and closed on second Saturdays and Sundays. Call 044 2254 2551 - 52, visit www.lib. uchicago.edu/e/su/ southasia/rmrl. html.

destinations Boating in Pichavaram

Rangashree Srinivas

W

ith a long weekend ahead and two

miles away from civilisation! A few hits

stone installations painted with exotic

restless children on hand, I had

and misses later, we entered the gates of

bird, insect and animal figures greet you.

an urge to do something more

‘Purity’, a campus that lived up to its name.

These stones attract insect communities,

exciting than watch a movie or visit a mall.

I stumbled upon a group that was traveling down the East Coast Road (ECR), on a fun-adventure-educational trip for two days and one night and decided to join them.

The next morning, the children were up and ready early and they played on the swings around the campus. After a sumptuous hot breakfast, we began our journey to visit a rejuvenated forest, mangroves, crumbling

Our group comprised three more families

old forts, water sport sites, estuaries and

with children aged 5 to 13 years. Two

beaches.

young eco-travel enthusiasts Sridhar and Arul had put this trail together. We boarded a tempo traveller and set off on our muchawaited trail even as the dark clouds emerged in the sky. Chennai’s busy traffic gave way to long, quiet stretches of the highway. Vegetation became denser as we crossed Mahabalipuram.

Sadhana Forest A rejuvenated forest

Deep inside Auroville, Puducherry, is the Sadhana Forest, a young but dense forest of 30 years. When Yorit and Aviram Rozin (Israelites who chose to settle down in Auroville) visited this erstwhile barren land

Sometime later, our van swung down

in Auroville’s outskirts in the early ‘70s, a

a side road leading to Auroville. It was

vision unfurled in their minds – of a land

pitch dark and we almost lost our way to

buzzing with insects, heady with the aroma

the guest house we were to stay in that

of herbs and darkened with the thick

night. As the dense woods closed in on us from either side, we felt as if we were

24 Parent Circle / August 2011

foliage of indigenous trees.

As you enter the wilderness, waist-high

the first step in building and sustaining the bio-diversity of the region. This is an ongoing afforestation project, open to visitor involvement. A winding path leads to a cottage that houses all the products of the forest and exhibits posters.

Peacocks and turkeys in the forest delighted the children in our group. We came away with literature on growing herb gardens in our balconies, useful for home remedies.

Mangroves of Pichavaram After lunch, we drove down to the mangroves of Pichavaram a few kilometres away from Chidambaram. We got into a small boat having a frail-looking boatman.

We explored the wondrous world of mangroves as we glided through the narrow canals flanked by dense foliage

with its deep underwater roots. We were wearing life jackets and felt adventurous, till we realised that the shimmering vast waters were just two feet deep!

We managed to see a small fox slinking away among the roots and a majestic kite in the air – amidst a wafting breeze and the muted roar of the sea.

Bonfire on the beach Later in the evening, we drove to a deserted beach between Cuddalore and Puducherry. We saw some catamarans silhouetted against the moonlit sea – the scene was ethereal, dream-like in quality.

We sat on the catamarans and played games with the children. Sridhar and Arul set up a bonfire and placed piping hot food around it. After a wonderful meal, we spent some time gazing at the stars and listening to the rhythmic beat of the waves.

It is advisable to be part of a large group if

Alamparai Fort and Backwaters On day two of the ECR trail, we found ourselves near a crumbled 17th century Mughal fort. We learnt about its history, and then gave in to the demands of the children to go swimming in the back

Bird watching After Mudaliarkuppam, we descended down a gentle slope on the ECR, to find ourselves in a salt bed. Dotting the horizon were flocks of roosting birds – flamingos, herons, kingfishers, pelicans and egrets. It was an astonishing sight!

waters. After lunch and a boat ride in the

We returned home tired, but well-pleased

backwaters, we were back on the ECR.

with our experiences – all down the ECR. n

Kayaking On our way back home, we got off at the Mudaliarkuppam boat house where we could kayak and paddle boat.

The children, even the very young ones, opted to go on solo kayak rides. They turned out to be excellent first-time kayakers, and gained great confidence!

you want to experience deserted beaches and a bonfire.

Ecologin organis es various types of nature trails, all-inclusive of accommodation and food.

Contact Sridhar Lakshmanan at 9445384021 or visit www.ecologin.org.

However, travellers who like to plan their own itinerary can explore the destinations in any order.

Some information to plan ahead: AUROVILLE is 6 kilometres north of Puducherry and has s everal beach and non-beach stay facilities. Check out www.aurovilleguesthouses.org for rates, which can go upto Rs 1800 per day. Puducherry also has good hotels for those lower budgets.

If you are planning an overnight tri p to SADHANA FOREST, accommodation is available but you need to volunteer for their project. For details, log on to www.sadhanaforest.org. The place is a few kilometres north of Puducherry and can also be reached by taking an autorickshaw from the Puducherry bus station.

PICHAVARAM is 57 kilometres from Pudhucherry by road, near Chidambaram. State transport bus es ply from the main bus stand.

Food and accommodation are very basic. You can plan a day's visit here.

Children pose in Alamparai beach

There are two routes to Chidambaram from Chennai one down the East Coast Road to Puducherry and down south via Cuddalore, and the second along the Chengalpet-Tindivanam highway.

Buses from CMBT, Koyambedu will take you Pichavaram. Boating at Pichavaram is open from 7.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m.

MUDALIARKUPPAM is 92 kilometres from Chennai and 36 kilometres south of Mamallapuram. You can make bookings at the TTDC boat house in Mudaliarkuppam. For more information, call 044-25383333, 25389857, 25384444, 25381286. The Cuddalore Boat House is yet another option.

For BIRD WATCHING near Cuddalore/ Mudaliarkuppam, October to February is the best sighting season. Birds can be seen from dawn to dusk, but make sure you carry your binoculars.

ALAMPARAI FORT is near Kadapakkam village about 50 kilometres south of Mahabali puram (towards Puducherry) and about 100 kilometres south of Chennai along the ECR. It is preferable to use private transport.

www.parentcircle.in 25

cover story

P

reschool education emphasises learning through

preschools do not provide support for emotionally

fun. But holistic education is much more than the

affected children, and the problem is not dealt with

ABCs, the 123s, rhymes and activities taught in

early, it could lead to ADHD and dyslexia later on.”

preschools. A child’s brain develops the fastest in the first three years and whatever children

learn or experience during these formative years moulds their thinking and behaviour for the rest of their

Right age for preschool education

lives. So preschools play a vital role in shaping our

While parents are eager to send their children to the

children into better individuals.

best of preschools as early as 18 months of age,

What are the prerequisites of a preschool? What should parents look for in a preschool before they choose one for their child? Ideally, the learning environment in a preschool should be conducive. It should help children in the acquisition of knowledge

some grandparents dispute the very idea of sending little ones to a preschool. E. Balasubramaniam’s twoyear-old granddaughter Mahima goes to a preschool in Mylapore and stays back with the day care till someone picks her up in the late evening.

and self-discovery and provide a wholesome

Says Mahima’s grandfather, “Children should not be

development.

sent to school before they are five. Bonding with the

Some schools offer programmes in which the parent is with the child in the class. Kids Central has such programmes for children from 9 months upto 1 1/2 years for an hour. Parents are allowed to stay with the children for 3 days a week. Chettinad Hari Shree Vidyalayam allows the parent of the pre-primary child to be with the child for the first month.

mother is very important for the child. Every parent should spend at least 2 hours with the child everyday – just being with them, talking and teaching them something new. The mother is the best teacher.”

According to eminent educationist Padma Srinath, “Parents should realise that most pre-kindergarteners (and even lower kindergarteners) are not ready to part

Gowri Krishnamurthy, child psychologist and

from the mother for several hours a day. The child

counsellor with St. Michael’s Academy says, “If

feels that it is not wanted by the mother and there is a deep subconscious impact at this early age.”

26 Parent Circle / August 2011

PHOTOS CREDIT ARJUN DOGRA & SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

Sudha S

Contrary to the present preschool education system in India, Swedish children are enrolled in the primary only when they turn 7. In some cases, parents also have the option of delaying starting school for their child until the age of 8, if they think it is in the best interests of

PHYSICAL SKILLS Preschool curriculum should focus on

important features that parents should look for in a preschool.

developing children's gross and fine motor

The preschool should be run by a

skills. In other words, time spent sitting

qualified person.

indoors should equal time spent on their feet.

It should have a hygienic environment.

There should be ample scope for children

their child.

INTELLECTUAL SKILLS

to showcase their creativity.

In India, 2 and a half to 3 years is widely

Intellectual skill development should focus

considered to be the right age for children

Teaching aids should inspire the children

on language, knowledge, art, music, dance

to be in preschool though some parents

to learn even as they play, and help

and any other activity that interests

feel they are school-ready much earlier.

develop their senses.

the child.

Can preschools provide the best early education for my child?

SPIRITUAL SKILLS

develop hand and eye coordination.

Preschool teachers should help children

Children should be taught basic manners

recognise that there are many animals,

and etiquette like saying ‘sorry’ and ‘thank

people and trees who share this world with

you’.8

Many preschools take in children as early

in them. They should also teach children

as 18 months to 2 years of age and offer

about the mysterious wonders of the

Montessori, Kindergarten, Waldorf and

universe, the unfailing sun that makes the

Playway methods of teaching.

day and the wonderful breeze that makes

If parents are determined to send a child to preschool, they should ensure that the school has a programme content that encourages the five basic skills outlined below by Padma Srinath.

SOCIALISING SKILLS Children should be given at least 30 minutes of socialising time during their preschool hours to encourage bonding with the teacher, and with other children.

EMOTIONAL SKILLS The preschool should build the child’s self esteem and not thwart it.Trivial issues like coming late to school or any other emotional stress the child is facing

them and imprint the idea of non-violence

us feel so good.

What should parents look for in a preschool?

Today’s parents are slowly getting convinced that preschool education does give an edge. But the innumerable questions that arise in their minds are -- Which is the best preschool in the neighbourhood? How do I make sure that my child is under the best teacher and caretaker?

should be sorted out immediately with

Sudha Kasturirangan,

the parents. The school should make the

who runs a playschool in

child understand that he can do something

Kottur Gardens, says that

and that he has his place in a group. This

the maximum development of

will help build his self-confidence and

the child happens between

emotional strength. For instance, if your

0-6 years of age. A trained

child draws a circle and says that it is an

nursery school teacher

elephant, the preschool teacher should

with decades of

acknowledge the child’s effort rather than

experience,

ridicule his work. She can say that she can

Sudha

see the tummy or the head.

highlights a few

Educational materials should help children

cover story

Surya Kartik 2 years 10 months Loves to ride his bicycle and chant the ‘Bhaja Govindam.’ He can also say ‘Gajananam’ and ‘Saraswathi Namastubyam’ slokams. He loves to go to the park and play with the swing and see-saw. He likes to go to temples.

On television, he prefers Thomas the Tank Engine, Chotta Bheem and Keymon Ache. He likes collecting toy animals and seeing pictures in books.

PRIYA SAMPATH, MOTHER

Kimaya

1 year, 9 months

She loves colours in all forms! She loves painting and splashing colour all over.

She enjoys finger painting, dipping the brush in paints and swirling it around the paper. She says “WOW” once she is done with a few strokes!

SONALI SETH, MOTHER

vijaY 3 years

Is a very sm

talking! He is

s 6 month

art child and

loves

very bold an

many quest

PRIYA VENKAT

ions.

d asks

ESH, MOTHER

an nj ra Ni 3 years Is inspired by his father (a military man) and loves adventure. He enjoys frequent sojourns into forests and hills. He is fond of music and hops in tune with his favourite songs. An avid listener of stories, he loves

A few Chennai preschoolers and what their parents say about them!

simplified versions of Spiderman, Sherlock Holmes and Tarzan, and of course his dad's army experiences.

DHANYA BHASKARAN, MOTHER

An ag ha 2 years and 3 months

Loves mangoes and whatever her elder sister has! When someone scolds her, she says ‘ka… ka… ka…’ and hides her face on the couch.

JAIGANESH V, FATHER

N i ketan 2 years

of his father in Is a carbon copy very fastidious, behaviour. He is es everyone cheerful and mak happy! around him very SHKUMAR, MOTHER SARASWATHI VIJE

cover story

Preschool education moulds children B Sridevi, Head of the Accounts Department of a law firm, had earlier put her first daughter in a preschool for just three months. But her second daughter is going to one, on a regular basis. “Laya, now 3, is a lot more competent and confident compared to her sister,”

recommended play schools to be little more than training camps for school admissions,” they say. “Grassroots engages our son intellectually and creatively without forcing him to go through the rigours of a classroom at too early an age."

There are some schools that follow a Playway method of teaching. Siksha - The Learning Center in Kilpauk, for example, devotes the first half of the day to free play, rhyme time, rest room visit and a snack

she says.

break. The rest of the day is divided into Some parents seem to

four different activities per day, keeping

have found the right

in mind the multiple intelligence learning

environment for their

concept. There are verbal, mathematical,

child. Two-year-old Sidharth’s parents Anjali and Rohan George, after a long search, are happy with the Little Thinkers programme at

visual, musical and Kinesthetic learning activities.

Regular schools embracing the preschool concept

Grassroots, a school open to children

C Jagan, creative media entrepreneur of

between 18 months to five and a half

Minddreams, sent his daughter Kavinya to

years. "We found some of the best

a preschool attached to a leading regular

Uma Shanker, Director, Centre for Montessori Training, Chennai, has some expert views on preschool education.

What are the qualifications that a teacher should have, to handle preschool children?

A preschool teacher should: have knowledge of the child and his needs. develop her skills to offer different activities in a manner that will kindle interest in the child to take it up by himself. be child-centric in her approach. not only love the children, but learn to respect them for what they have to offer to adults, for

What is the right age for a child to enter a preschool?

We believe that 2 1/2 is the magical age for

our own learning process.

children to be in preschool. At that stage, they

realise that she is a role model for the child

can spend a part of the day away from their

and therefore she has follow the maxim ‘Do as

homes with other children in the same stage of

I do and not Do as I say’!

development.

Why are activities important for a preschooler?

I believe that a child needs to work using his hands and senses and therefore needs concrete materials to manipulate and to internalise the concepts. The activities offered have to be meaningful and make sense to his intelligence. He then becomes self-confident and articulate, and gets motivated to learn.

30 Parent Circle / August 2011

Should preschools be controlled by a board and uniform standards be set across all types of preschool education?

A Board could help preschools develop a broad outline of what children should be offered at this stage of development and how it should be done through activities. It may ensure that children are not forced to write when they are three or three-and-ahalf and burdened with homework and other pressures of performing at the examinations.

school, as he wanted to avoid the stress of

education. They often put their children in

securing an LKG admission later on.

a preschool that is close to their residence.

However, Amrit’s mother S Shoba is still looking for a good preschool for her

Many are not content with the services that the city’s preschools offer.

METHODS OF EDUCATION

son. She visited a preschool with an

Hemalatha Raman says she abruptly

‘international’ tag, but found that it did not

stopped sending her daughter Uma

have a reasonable play area, and one of

(3 years) to a daycare cum preschool

Waldorf Method Waldorf or Rudolf

the teachers there could not even speak

because the child was reluctant to go

Steiner form of education is based

good English.

there. “Though I sent Uma to one of the

on the view that the child develops

oldest and best preschools in Chennai,

through a number of basic stages

her signs of discomfort did indicate that

from childhood to adulthood. The

she was under some kind of trauma.

curriculum is specifically designed

Even today, Uma who is in the UKG, does

to work with the child through

not discuss with me her day’s activities

these stages.

She checked out another preschool, a branch of a regular school that promised good facilities. It had converted a first floor flat into a preschool and primary section.

The entrance was a narrow staircase and the school did not have proper ventilation.

Though the school charged exorbitant fees, it offered minimal facilities for children and packed about 180 children in just 4 rooms. There were only a handful of teachers and 3 caretakers.

at regular school. So I suspect that her experience at her preschool has had an adverse impact,” she says.

Should preschools have a governing body?

Think twice before you choose

Girija Kumarbabu, Honorary Joint

Parents are often helpless and left with

orientation programme for initiation into

no choice when it comes to preschool

learning in the most pleasant manner.

Secretary, Indian Council for Child Welfare, says: “Preschool education should be an

Sadly, teachers in many preschools are not well trained. 8

FOLLOWED IN SOME PRESCHOOLS

Reggio Emilia Approach The Reggio Emilia approach requires children to be seen as competent, resourceful, curious, imaginative and inventive, and possess a desire to interact and communicate with others. Followers of this method have a strong belief that children learn through interaction with others in a friendly learning environment.

Montessori Teaching In the Montessori method, children and developing adults engage in psychological self-construction

Here are some websites that offer free worksheets that can be printed or downloaded and be given to preschool children to encourage learning.

by means of interaction with their environments. Children, especially under the age of six, have an innate path of psychological development and they are at

COLOURING PAGES

liberty to choose and act freely

LEARNING AND FUN

www.coloring.ws/coloring.html

within an environment.

www.berenstainbears.com/

www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/

www.abcteach.com/

Playway Method The most desirable

www.activityvillage.co.uk/coloring_ pages.htm

method of learning for children,

www.activity-sheets.com/ www.printables.kaboose.com/animalsprint.html

maximum amount of learning happens while playing games,

WORKSHEETS

making the process interesting

www.schoolexpress.com/

and fun. Toys and apparatus like

MATH CONCEPTS

www.printactivities.com/

checkers, magic squares, puzzles

www.kidslearningstation.com/math/

www.tlsbooks.com/ foreignlanguageworksheets.htm

and building blocks are used to

www.kidzpark.com/kids-activity-sheets/ kids-activity.asp

memorable experience.

www.kidzone.ws/math/kindergarten.htm

make teaching and learning a

www.kidslearningstation.com/

www.parentcircle.in 31

cover story “Classes are conducted in an

having good teaching staff are few

unimaginative and restrictive manner. The

in number.

children are forced to follow instructions in reading and writing. The children imbibe what is taught, and it is difficult to go back and correct the errors later. Also, the mother tongue norm is not followed. In fact, education is being commercialised.

If this is the case in Chennai, one can imagine the plight of children in other smaller cities.

“For many years now, there have been efforts to get the State to enforce minimum standards for Nursery Schools and other centres for very young children. The Indian Association for Preschool Education (now called the Indian Association for Early Childhood and Development) has advocated this constantly. But the ‘market’ is stronger than any association of

“At present preschools are out of the

teachers, social activists or academics, as

purview of any governing body. Public

we have sadly found.

pressure should be brought in, and minimum education standards should be followed. A governing body should be formed and it should comprise of educationists and specialists in early childhood education. There should also be an inspection mechanism for preschools.

We all talk about what needs to be done, but there is a large gap.”

Educationist Padma Srinath has a few tips for parents on what they should look for in a preschool

“Perhaps, Parent Associations can play a pro-active role in improving the environment and the equipment in the preschool centres, rather than accepting low standards as a given.”

Get feedback from your child everyday In spite of parents doing several checks

Dr S Anandalakshmy, President, Bala

and ensuring that their child is under the

Mandir Research Foundation and an

best of care, some sensitive children may

experienced teacher of Child Development

not be comfortable with the preschool they

and Education at the post graduate level

are going to. What works best in these

says, "I think that parents have a choice,

circumstances is a regular feedback from

using the criteria of costs, size of class,

the child. Talk to your child to find out

proximity or access, philosophy of the

whether he enjoys going to the preschool.

school and the link to the next level of

What ultimately matters is whether the

schooling. But that choice is limited.

child simply loves going to school and

This is because the schools with a good

looks forward to another fun-filled day at

reputation for being child-friendly and

the preschool. n

The preschool should be in the neighbourhood because children should not feel tired commuting to and from the school at the end of the day. If it is not close-by, ensure that the mode of transport is safe for children.

Research thoroughly the preschools in the area and talk to parents of children studying there, before you zero in on the best for your child.

Carefully go through the preschool’s programme and ensure that its teaching modules will help in the overall development of your child.

Request the authorities for a complete evaluation of the campus. Scan the interiors for educational aids, safety of toys, the furniture, and cleanliness of the place.

Ensure that the teacher-child ratio is not more than 1:15 and that there are two caretakers in each class.

Open space or outdoor play area in the preschool should be adequate for the children to run around so that they get proper physical exercise.

Keep in mind that the minimum space required for every child is three feet by one-and-a-half feet bed area and an equal space to play, not inclusive of the outdoor play area.

Ensure that medical help is at hand and the preschool is well equipped to deal with an emergency, if one arises. Check if first aid kits are in place and there is a physician or doctor on call for immediate medical help.

Most importantly, the toilets should not be farther than an easy running distance for the child. The toilet should be childfriendly and cleaned frequently.

If the preschool provides food, check on the quality and quantity and the meal timings through the day.

Children with their parents and care givers at Grassroots preschool

At the end of it all, ask yourself this question: Will my child be comfortable here and enjoy learning?

ADVERTORIAL

Temple Tree Making a Difference

O

ne dilemma of parents today is how to best support their child’s development in early years. Parents hear about ways to build a better child on one hand and on the other, warnings of the dangers of hurrying children and mis-education. In a city that has witnessed a mushrooming of nursery and play schools, there is one that promises to provide a balanced approach. Nandini Palaniappan, who has had many years of teaching experience in a reputed school, started Temple Tree recently at Jeevarathnam Colony, Adyar to remain true to what is natural for children of this age and provide a curriculum that will help his holistic development . She insists that a child’s ability to learn begins from within and is developing every moment of his life. “At Temple Tree, we believe that each stage of a child’s development is unique and important. A child should experience each stage fully before moving to the next.”

Temple Tree has carefully balanced academic and non-academic programmes to nurture learning and social and physical activities. The academic curriculum has been designed to provide rich experience in listening, speaking and writing. Broad fundamental work in listening and speaking skills, including singing, finger play, dialogue, listening to and comprehending stories, which also provide vocabulary enrichment. Temple Tree’s curriculum aims to include a variety of domestic, artistic and creative learning opportunities and plenty of time for learning and discovery.

Shankuntala, a senior teacher, says that for a child “attention, small muscle development, and eye hand coordination are all essential for reading and writing.

Through activities and carefully chosen materials from established Montessori, Waldorf and other systems, a child learns to take care of himself and the environment, beginning the process of becoming independent.

Mixed-age kindergartens are a well proven method for encouraging children to help each other to learn. This class has a mix of children from 2 ½ years to 5 ½ years. It has the advantage of being more like a large family; the older children provide a model for the younger ones and help them, while the little ones bring a softer element to the 4 and 5 ½ yr olds.

The day is structured to alternate between active and quiet activities. For instance, an outdoor play might be followed by a quiet activity such as working with the material or story and exploring in the garden.

Sumathy, another teacher says that children in Temple Tree learn to play in groups, sharing and taking turns; practicing common courtesy and politeness. Children will be exploring art through watercolour painting, craft, sewing, crayoning and clay modeling. Children go on field trips and nature walk regularly that are relevant and meaningful for enhancing their learning experience. The school also provides a simple and nutritious snack and lunch.

Temple Tree is open for admission of children between ages of 2 – 6 years.

New No 14, Old No 16, 1st Street, Jeevarathnam Nagar, Adyar, Chennai 600020.

Ph: 9094850052, 9841642502. email: templetreeschool@gmail.com

teen circle

Be a Parent, not a Friend Gemmarie Venkataramani Situation #1: Your daughter wants to go to a beach party with her friends. You are fully aware that there will be no parental supervision and that there will be free flowing alcohol and cigarettes at the party. Refusing her would mean one week of cold treatment from her. But by giving her the permission to go, you become the coolest mom around.

Situation #2: First he wants an MP3 player, then a PS3. A touch-phone is next, and now he is asking for an iPad. Your son has an everextending gadget requirement every week. Say ‘no’ and he will blame you of putting him behind his generation. Say ‘yes’ and you are the best dad ever.

P

arents are often left at a crossroads

Many parents try to achieve a balance

rules and school matters are concerned.

and they would love an easy solution.

between friendship and parenting.

“I have to be tough when needed”, she

The easy way would be to give in

Switching Gear

stresses.

completely, become a friend and get rewarded with titles like - ‘Cool Guy’, ‘Fun Mom’!

Thirty-six-year-old Lavanya Rao, mother of 18-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy,

Cool parents “We have a lot of fun with our children.

Many parents do swear by friendship with

understands her children’s behaviour and

their teenagers. “This is the only way I

emotions. This helps her relate to them

can reach out to my teen and understand

more as a friend. Lavanya feels that being

her feelings. When I go on the ‘parent

a friend to them gives her an assurance

mode’, she gets into a shell”, says

that she knows what is happening to

Sudha Anantharaman of her 15-year-old

them. “We go out a lot together – eating

daughter. Sudha does not like to see her

out, watching movies, shopping, visiting

not see anything wrong with being a cool

daughter appearing remote and detached

relatives and friends”, she says. Still, she

parent as long as we do not lose respect

from her.

keeps a tab on the children where house

and authority over them”, explains Kumar.

34 Parent Circle / August 2011

We play on the beach, watch movies, play board games, eat out, go to the mall or just talk and goof around with each other”, says IT professional N Kumar, father of 12-yearold Saina and 14-year-old Ranvir. “I do

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ARJUN DOGRA

Situation #3: Forget about his final exams, he is not even interested in doing his homework.

For him, life revolves around friends and cricket. How do you manage this?

Parenting is not a popularity contest “Some parents choose the role of friendship, for fear of their children hating them. “Parenting is not a popularity contest”, says Kumar. “The role of parents is crucial to children as they grow. They pass through stages where the guidance of an adult is essential. Not being there at those times would be doing disservice to your children”, he says.

Be friendly, not a friend Parents need to draw the line when it comes to their relationship with their children. Arundhati Swamy, a Chennai counsellor, asserts that being a friend to your child automatically changes the equation. “Be friendly. Not a friend!” she says. Being friendly with your child enhances the relationship. The child would find it easier to approach the parent and freely share some of the things that she would otherwise keep to herself. “As a friend, a child would think that she can take liberties with her parents. When children do so, parents get upset and say that their children do not respect them. There lies the problem”, she explains.

Mala Natarajan is quite friendly with her sons, 21-year-old Anirudh and 14-year-old Pradyumna. She likes spending time with them. They would watch television together and discuss topics of common interests. Discipline is one aspect where the line is clearly drawn, particularly when it comes to cleaning their rooms, going out with friends or studying. “I do not hear them grumble when I start talking rules”, she says.

Friendship with a Purpose Seethalakshmi Ram, who works as Operations Head for a publication, proudly says that she is very close to her teenage daughters. In their relationship, everything is discussed openly. “I established a ‘friendship with a purpose’ relationship from the time they were small. I have been open with them, sharing my emotions and problems. We have established a comfort level wherein they share their feelings and difficult situations with me.” This does not mean that the thin line between parenting and being a friend is totally dissolved. “They know their limits and respect my rules”, she adds.

Parental authority comes in handy When teenagers experience peer pressure that they are not comfortable with, they happily and deliberately use their ‘strict’ mom or dad as an excuse to get out of that situation. At the same time, they do not get thrown out of their

tweets on Twitter. Today’s teenagers have enough friends to keep them company. They have only one set of parents. They need an authority figure that would tell them what is right or wrong and discuss with them the pros and cons of decisions before making them.

They need someone who can shelter them from the harsh realities outside the home.

friends’ circle. Says Gita Krishnan, mother of two children “ My teenage son

Betsy Brown Braun, author and specialist in child

has done this. I do not mind if his friends think of me as the `Uncoolest’ of

development and behaviour says, “Every time I hear

mothers!

a parent brag that her child is her best friend, I cringe

Countless friends, only one set of parents

and think, ‘Well, that’s too bad’. The job description of a parent is mighty long – nurturer, teacher, advisor, consultant, guide, spotter, disciplinarian, consoler, cheerleader. But I am quite sure ‘friend’ is not merited

Take a look at your teen’s Facebook page and see how many connections

in the list”. After all, your child has enough friends, and

she has. You will also be amazed at how many friends are following her

so do you! n

www.parentcircle.in 35

tech talk

Academic Help

Gemmarie Venkataramani

on the

Net

T

he dawn of the Internet revolution appears to be complex for some modern day parents. The sudden

influx of information can be baffling. While some parents blame the Internet for the changing behaviour of their children, several others have embraced it as a means to enhance their knowledge.

The net: a source for academic help Internet help at hand has made parenting much easier these days. Today, learning at home is more enjoyable and stress-

Having trouble with Quadratic Equations? http://www.homeschoolmath.net/ Homeschoolmath.net is a comprehensive math resource site for students, parents and teachers. The author, Maria Miller, is a math teacher who became a homeschooler and a work-at-home mom. The in-built resources emphasise understanding of concepts instead of learning by rote. The site offers free worksheets, math articles/lessons, games and quizzes. http://www.webmath.com/ Webmath is a math-help website that generates instant answers to specific math

free. The Internet is a great resource

questions as soon as the user enters a query and clicks the solve button. The

for modern day parents, who have lived

answers generated and displayed are real-time, with appropriate explanation and

the life of students devoid of any such

steps involved to arrive at the answer.

academic help. Those were the times

http://www.amathsdictionaryforkids.com/

when teachers were sought to answer every question, and friends and relatives could be reached only through letters.

Finding places and directions involved the handling of hard-bound and heavy atlases, while libraries were the only place where reference material could be found.

36 Parent Circle / August 2011

A Maths Dictionary for Kids is an animated and interactive math glossary of more than 600 commonly used math terms explained with easy-to-understand illustrations. Jenny Eather of Australia has made this glossary different, with an interactive interface. For instance, a student can learn the concept of ‘ascending order’ by placing a set of numbers from the smallest to the largest. Or learn about prime factors by creating a factor tree.

Other Subjects

But today, the Internet offers not just news

http://www1.teachertube.com/

helps users to connect with others via

TeacherTube, launched on March 6, 2007, was the brainchild of Jason Smith, an

children often turn to the Internet for extra

and entertainment on the go, but also social networking. Parents of school-going

educator, coach, campus administrator and district administrator in public schools.

reading and reference material to help

Instructional videos that focus mainly on education are shared on this platform,

their children in academics.

which is a safe venue for teachers, schools and home learners.

Parents are turning more and more

http://www.discoveryeducation.com/

to the Internet for help to answer the

Discovery Education provides engaging digital resources to schools and homes. It

some time, Kamini Nagarajan, the mother

countless questions children ask. For

aims to make educators more effective by increasing student achievement, and to

of 13-year-old Ashwin, felt helpless as she

connect classrooms and families to a world of learning.

found that her son’s lessons, homework and school projects were very different

Other sites to visit

from what she had studied at school.

www.edhelper.com/

www.historyforkids.org

www.indianchild.com www.splung.com www.khanacademy.org/

www.Internet4classrooms.com

www.chatterbeeshomework.homestead.com/ www.infoplease.com/homework

“Most of what he is studying now did not seem to figure when I was a student studying the same subjects, or maybe I just do not remember anymore”, she says.

www.harmsy.freeuk.com/orrery.html

www.sciencemaster.com/

A boon for parents

www.science-active.co.uk/

www.ewart.org.uk/

She finds the Internet a boon, as she

www.chemguide.co.uk/

www.purchon.com/biology/

constantly seeks information from Google, Youtube and other sites that offer academic help. “There is a considerable amount of information available. One

http://www.maths.com/index.htm

just needs to hit the search button and

It has the A to Z of Mathematics and includes a comprehensive list of topics,

thousands of sites will come up offering

questions and solutions for various math problems and equations. The site has enhanced features like pictorial representations, diagrams and video presentations of how to arrive at the answer to a particular math question. http://www.mathtv.com/videos_by_topic There is no substitute to a real-time teacher showing you how to solve a math

help,” she explains.

“Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach that person to use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.” (Source: Internet Quotes)

problem. McKeague and his assistants do just that. The site has a series of

Though the Internet provides a plethora

videos that guide the students step-by-step in basic math. It also covers advanced

of information and academic help on

concepts in algebra, trigonometry and calculus. http://coolmath.com and http://coolmath4kids.com/ Log on to coolmath4kids for a fun-filled math activity – it provides instructions, challenges and games in the concepts of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. Its sister website, coolmath.com, focuses on higher level math skills, typically learnt from classes 6th to 10th. It also has instructions and worksheets on pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and money and finance.

hand, there is nothing quite like being supportive and encouraging, and inherently believing in a child’s ability.

Every child is different, and each one has a special talent or skill. Though some children may not be good in studies, they may excel in sports, music or any other field.

The real challenge for parents lies in

Other sites to check out

tapping the child’s talent, bringing out the

www.cut-the-knot.org/

www.mathisfun.com/

child’s potential and helping him reach the

www.visualmathlearning.com/

www.mathforum.org/

goal. Do not be perplexed...even that can

www.funbrain.com/

www.mathnerds.com/

be Googled! n

www.parentcircle.in 37

check it out Ages 6+ Magic Kitten – A Puzzle of Paws Sue Bentley Puffin Books, `195

Flame, a cuddly black kitten, twinkling with magic, is of royal blood and goes missing from his own world. His uncle Ebony is very

GOOD READS for all ages

keen that he is found quickly. Flame may be hard to spot as he often appears in a variety of fluffy kitten colours but he needs a purrfect friend!

Flame is actually a lion cub that has lost his parents and he is too young to take over the lion throne. So his uncle Ebony betrays him and takes over the throne. Will Flame get the throne back or will Ebony rule forever?

In each book of this Magic Kitten series, the kitten appears in different colours, has magic powers and can become invisible. In ‘A Puzzle of Paws,’ Rosie Swales’ worries about moving house become easier to handle, when cuddly black kitten Flame

Ages 24

becomes part of the furniture. The story ends with Prince Flame allowing Rosie to stroke him one last time before he vanishes! Watch him reappear in another book in a new colour with a new adventure!

Ages 8+ The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories

Little Teddy Bear’s Happy Face Sad Face Lynn Offerman The Millbrook Press Inc., USA, `250

An ideal first book for preschoolers about feelings and emotions, it has four removable bear heads.

Each face expresses a different feeling -- happy, sad, angry and afraid. To be read with the help of

Sudha Murty Penguin Books, `150

Presented in a very simple language, most of the stories in this book have been gathered from around the world and retold with relevance to India so that the Indian child can relate to them. All the stories have a moral for children and are filled with intelligence and wit. In the author’s own words, “They are about human emotions and everyday human activities.”

a parent, this read-aloud book helps little children

The Magic Drum is the most interesting of the lot in which an

choose the expression that shows how the Teddy

old couple is cheated by a miser and saved by a magic drum.

is feeling in each situation.

Krishnakant, the king’s counsellor hides inside the drum and

Parents should encourage their children to explore how Teddy’s feelings arise from the situations in the book. Just for fun, make them swap the heads

ultimately brings justice to the poor couple. The culprit pays them three times the stolen money as penalty and they complete their pilgrimage in great comfort.

around. Young children will simply love fitting all

Nine questions for a princess, The very expensive coconut, The

of Teddy’s different expressions on the extra-thick

Dead Man’s Painting and other stories introduce young readers to

pages. This will help them understand their own

some of the funniest and oddest men and women. This collection

feelings too!

will be surely enjoyed by many more readers of all ages.

38 Parent Circle / August 2011

Ages 1 0-12

Ages 9-10

Crazy Times With Uncle Ken

Ruskin Bond Puffin Books, `175

The Mona Mousa Code Geronimo Stilton Scholastic, `200

Ruskin Bond fans have something exciting to explore -- the Uncle Ken collection. The

Italian author Elisabetta Dami is the author

author writes that he did have an Uncle Ken

of the Geronimo Stilton series although it

who helped to enliven his boyhood days. But he

is credited to its title character Geronimo,

did not set a good example for a growing boy. The tales in this

who works as a journalist and editor-

book are true (or almost true) but the publishers describe the

in-chief of a fictional newspaper, The

stories in this collection as ‘fiction’ though they are ‘stranger

Rodent’s Gazette. Geronimo admits that his true passion is writing adventure stories and says his stories are ‘fa-mouse-ly funny and whisker-licking’.

than fiction,’ according to the author.

In this book, Geronimo’s sister Thea gets to know of a secret

around him. In this collection, whenever Uncle Ken arrives

hidden in Mouse Island’s most famous painting, the Mona

at Grandma’s house, there’s trouble afoot! He drives his car

Mousa, and investigation follows! To crack the code, the mouse

into a wall, is mistaken for a famous cricketer, troubled by a

family follows a trail of clues that leads them below the streets

mischievous ghost, chased by a swarm of bees and attacked

of New Mouse City, where they make a discovery.

by flying foxes.

Colourful illustrations are aplenty and the variation of fonts in

Don’t miss Uncle Ben’s numerous bicycle rides with the author

the text attract young readers, who will simply get addicted to

or his futile attempts at finding a job. His misadventures provide

reading. Step into the world of New Mouse City and make a

huge doses of laughter!

Uncle Ken was a person who went through life without having to do much, although a great deal seemed to happen

fabumouse discovery!

For teens

Age 12 +

Figure it Out – the Ultimate Guide to Teen Fitness

Mathematwist: Number tales from around the world

Namita Jain Penguin Books, `199

T V Padma Tulika, `250

Today’s teens are increasingly becoming addicted

A collection of folktales, anecdotes and popular

to the television and fast foods. As the first step

stories from around the world, each story sets the brain ticking in children, encouraging problem-solving skills with a high quotient of fun! And each story is followed by a simple explanation of the maths behind the ‘magic’ that dispels the esoteric haze from the subject and makes it accessible.

The author has combined language and mathematics in a very unique way to make this book enjoyable for readers across all ages. The style of writing and the illustrations ultimately give a twist to Mathematics and help children rethink on fundamental arithmetic, encouraging them to calculate in the mind.

to fitness, the author says one should get out of the couch and step into a fitness routine. It could be as simple as walking, skipping or push-ups, but must make you break into a sweat! ‘Remember that the fitness routine should always be enjoyable too!’

Figure your body type from the three basic body shapes and then set your fitness goals to maintain an attractive figure and a healthy body. Peppered with examples and tips, the book tells you how to fight the fat, rate your fitness quotient, remodel your body, build up stamina, snack sensibly, tackle body changes during puberty and stay fit throughout the year. The book has an exclusive nutrition plan

All the 14 stories in this book increase problem-solving skills

for underweight teens to help them become healthy adults. Don’t

in young minds and at the same time make mathematics very

miss the FAQs on food and exercise, tips on how to eat a square

fascinating as a subject, especially for children in their

meal, the great ideas for smart snacking, and what should comprise

early teens.

the special diet of a sportsperson for a power-packed performance!

www.parentcircle.in 39

circle of life

Pets and You W

hen you relate to the world around

with her mother-

you, particularly to pets, there

in-law. She was

Sometimes the regimen of a full-day of

is an expansion of the self – a

often stressed out, having

school, coupled with an empty stomach

rising above the ego, caged within you.

to manage varying temperaments along

makes her weepy and cranky. Even simple

Taking care of the pets is like taking care

with the responsibility of shouldering the

requests by the parents, such as asking

of yourself – bringing about a happiness

entire household. Asha wore a forlorn look

her to eat something or drink water can

within you. Pet lovers will vouch that like

about her and the few conversations she

bring about a tantrum.

children, pets make the world a

had with her friends were always filled with

better place.

self-pity.

The Nagarajans for instance, are a classic

Her younger son had always wanted a dog

example of several generations of a family

as a pet. One day, her husband decided

being exposed to pets. Meena Nagarajan

to surprise their son and brought home a

the grandmother, just likes to have dogs

Labrador pup. Asha’s friends immediately

around her, daughter Chittu (a lawyer)

assumed that she was going to be

loves them passionately and the two

overburdened with additional work. No one

pre-teen grandsons cannot think of a life

in the family had ever raised dogs before

without dogs.

or even knew what it entailed.

Children are naturally inclined towards pets

Instead, Asha’s tone now has a vibrant

and animals, particularly single children.

ring when she talks to her friends, despite

If you do your part by keeping a pet, and

the additional work of feeding a perennially

encourage children to take care of it, you

hungry dog, toilet training it, ensuring that

Pets for the empty nest syndrome

will be inculcating in them a sense of

it does not chew up shoes and having

Chitralekha Arumugam’s husband was a

responsibility, and an attitude of care and

to frequently visit the vet. Suddenly the

pilot who constantly travelled to different

concern. The benefits of having pets are

mother-in-law and other travails are hardly

parts of the world and her children also

outlined below.

in the picture, and the dog has almost

left home to pursue their higher studies.

entirely replaced them in her conversation!

At home, Lekha set up an aquarium and

Pets relieve mental stress Take the case of Asha Kumar, the mother

Calming cranky children

of two boys 14 and 8 years old, who lives

Sruti Ramakrishnan is 6 years old.

40 Parent Circle / August 2011

A couple of stray cats regularly visit the house. Though they are not allowed inside, Sruti’s mother feeds them milk.

When the cats come by, even if Sruti is throwing tantrums, her mood always changes for the better. She tickles them with leaves and plays ball with them. She pulls at their tails while they drink their milk (when she thinks no one is watching her), and calls them endearing names. Handling Sruti has become that much easier.

brought home a dog. “The fish and dog helped me get over my loneliness,” she says. Watching the fish kept her calm,8

PHOTO CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

Malavika Lakshman

circle of life while the dog ensured that she never felt lonely.

After retirement, her husband settled down for good. Initially he was not attached to the pets. But over the years he grew attached to the dog. He took the dog for walks, fed it and took good care of it.

“Dogs can change one’s attitude too,” feels Lekha.

People who are initially indifferent towards pets, get to bond with them over time. The pet grows on them.

For the emotionally disturbed Dr N Rangarajan is a psychiatrist who loves pets and feels that they can provide a sense of comfort during distress.

“Anybody emotionally disturbed needs therapy (distinct from treatment) and pets can definitely provide that”, he says.

Saloni Singh, a parent from Kolkata, with her dogs Rani and Sara

Taking care of pets Dogs If they are pedigrees, maintenance (food, visits to the vet, shampoos etc.) could run to a

A lot of patients who come for counselling

couple of thousand rupees per month and more. Some dogs do take to natural food and

and the psychiatrists themselves, benefit

some adapt to vegan food, which makes maintenance less expensive.

from this ‘therapy’ and become

Mongrel dogs which can be obtained from the Blue Cross turn out to be very hardy, less

more stable.

fussy about food and can be easily maintained. Though they may not look glamorous,

Pets rejuvenate

they are as capable of loving their owners as much as the pedigrees. Children, unlike

CK Ranganathan, the founder of Cavinkare has been an animal lover all his life. Apart from birds, he keeps dogs, fish,

adults, have genuine affection and less vanity in choosing their pets.

Dogs need to be trained, brushed and given regular exercise. They get depressed if you travel out of town without them.

cows and monkeys. “As a child, having

Cats

pets at home brought me tremendous

Unless you opt for a high breed, cats are generally the local ones that are raised at

focus (although I was defocussed from

home. They need to be inoculated, much like dogs.

studies!), passion and ownership, coupled with a huge sense of responsibility.

I used to skip family holidays and movies because I used to make their cages and clean them up. It was extremely relaxing

They require less care, eat very little and do not cost much by way of maintenance.

Cats (and some hairy dogs too!) could cause allergies. If you have a garden, they can be trained not to come into the house.

Fish

and I learnt a lot from it. I never delegated

The initial cost of setting up a modest aquarium that sits in your living room would run to

this task to anyone,” he says.

at least a few thousand rupees, but monthly maintenance is low. Fish are a therapy for

“Having them at home makes me feel rejuvenated everyday; I am ready to start work,” he says. n

the eyes and the sub-conscious mind. You have to clean the tank fortnightly or monthly and keep the water oxygenated. The maintenance can be outsourced; but if you do it with your child, there is greater satisfaction.

Exotic birds and other animals Get well-acquainted with their behaviour and their requirements from experts and naturalists, before you decide to keep birds as pets. Macaw parrots for instance, will

Malavika Lakshman is a freelance writer-cum-

happily sit on your shoulder, but when they are in a bad mood, they will nip your ear or

editor interested in culture and heritage.

screech into it!

42 Parent Circle / August 2011

health circle

Dr Sukanya V Kumar

R

EGULAR DENTAL CHECK-UP IS IMPORTANT Children can

start visiting dentists from the age of 2 years, once every six months, for a routine check-up. The dentist ensures that the teeth are cleaned properly and are devoid of caries or any other infection. Preventive measures taken at an early age can help prevent tooth decay.

After they get sufficient teeth, the dentist

ALL ABOUT HEALTHY TEETH AND ORAL HYGIENE You can start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear in the mouth. Use gauze or muslin cloth wrapped around your finger for this. Once infants are weaned from mother’s milk, a non-fluoride toothpaste with a non-fruity flavour (some herbal pastes do not contain fluoride) can be smeared on the cloth to gently clean the teeth.

Then plain cloth should be used to remove the traces

can show them how to brush the right

of paste.

way. Preferably do not combine your own

Older children can

treatment appointment along with that of your children. Watching a procedure done on you could be too stressful for them.

Children between the ages of 4 to 7 years normally learn about teeth and food habits

use the fluoride toothpastes commonly available. Fluoride helps resist caries in teeth and to a small extent, in the reversal

in school. This is the right age for the

of enamel decay.

dentist to explain the parts of the tooth and

Bad breath can be

encourage children to brush their teeth at least twice a day.

Once the child starts losing the milk teeth (6-7 years) and develops permanent teeth, the dentist should let your child understand the concept of ‘a beautiful smile’ and why it is important to have teeth in good alignment. Certain problems in correcting teeth and the jaws may involve extensive treatment if the child visits the dentist in the late teens.

caused by factors like poor oral hygiene, coated tongue, multiple cavities, repeated infections of cold and cough,

you can eat better

gastritis,

you can speak clearly

indigestion and

you will have fewer toothaches

stress. Poor oral

X-rays should be taken once a year to

hygiene is the most

check for proper teeth formation and to

common cause of

rule out any cavities in the teeth.

bad breath.

44 Parent Circle / August 2011

Dental health is important because

you will have a pleasant smile!

Flossing is very important to maintain gum

treated to prevent

Usually, teeth correction with orthodontics

health and to prevent tartar formation.

further episodes

can be done only after all the permanent

Dental floss is available in supermarkets

of pain.

teeth erupt at 12 years of age. But children

and pharmacies. But if your child has some gaps, the dentist can prescribe an appropriate product and teach the child the

PHOTOS CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

correct way to floss.

In case of an accident, the broken tooth bit may be removed

Tongue cleaning is needed to maintain

or re-cemented

oral hygiene and prevent bad breath. A

depending on the

non-gagging shaped tongue cleaner can

extent of damage.

be used after brushing.

The tooth itself may need root canal

Teenagers have to be educated about maintaining oral hygiene and gum health because of the hormonal changes. Bad breath and jaw joint problems are common and need proper treatment. They should also be educated on the ill effects of

with jawbone problems like protruding upper or lower jaw will need early treatment by 9 years. Abnormal muscle attachments can cause gaps between the front teeth.

Your child will need a minor surgical correction of the muscle (frenum), usually done with lasers to avoid injections and stitches, before the orthodontic treatment.

treatment and a crown if it has chipped off

A visit to the dentist around 8 to 9 years of

close to the nerve or pulp of the tooth. If

age is desirable to check out the need

only a small portion is chipped off, the child

for braces.

will have occasional sensitivity and will

PREVENT TOOTH DECAY

need a filling to protect the tooth from hot and cold stimuli.

Avoid sweets that linger in the mouth for long, like lollipops and candies. Sweets are

various habits like smoking and

If the entire tooth falls off, it can be re-

best consumed soon after a meal when

chewing tobacco.

implanted if you bring the fallen tooth

salivation is at the maximum. Regular

dipped completely in milk to a dentist

brushing after eating sweets is important.

Children who are active in contact sports should wear mouthguards or helmets to protect their teeth and jaws from injury.

MANAGING TOOTHACHES AND OTHER TOOTH PROBLEMS If a permanent tooth comes out and the milk tooth has not yet fallen off then the dentist will have to remove the milk tooth. Sometimes, the shaking milk tooth can be painful and your child will find chewing difficult.

For temporary relief during a toothache, you can give him Paracetamol (Crocin) 10mg for 1 kg of the child’s weight. Then visit the dentist. If there is a dental cavity and it is not too close to the nerve, he will do a filling.

If the cavity is painful and deep, your child will need a pulpotomy or root canal treatment after which the tooth is capped. Lasers are used for most of these procedures so that the pain is not aggravated and the procedure is comfortable. Whether it is a milk tooth or permanent tooth, the cavity has to be

within 20 to 30 minutes. If Implants are not desirable then the natural teeth on either side will be used for support and a fixed tooth prosthesis can be given.

WHEN DO CHILDREN NEED BRACES? Orthodontics or braces

Young children and infants should not be allowed to drink milk and fall asleep without cleaning their teeth. This causes ‘rampant’ Caries that cause great pain and completely destroy all the milk teeth. The milk teeth turn black and break. The infection at the roots

will be needed for children with crooked

can spread to the underlying and developing

teeth, or spaces between teeth, having

permanent teeth. n

a protruding upper or lower jaw or cleft

Dr Sukanya V Kumar is a dental surgeon

lip and palate. Teeth may have to be moved to favourable positions in case of congenitally missing teeth.

and consultant at Dr K K Raja's Dental and Dentofacial Centre.

um, phosFoods rich in calci ins are phorous and vitam developessential for jaw d children ment in infants an g teeth. help develop stron , curds and eggs er ne pa , se ee munity, ch im e. Milk, d provide good upto 6 years of ag urce of vitamins an so t ea ns gr a e ar getables or bacterial infectio Fresh fruits and ve s. Prolonged viral ar ye ng . mi for ow thdark while gr ing during the too g the teeth appear which is important kin ma n, tio ma nces in enamel for can cause disturba

parent chef

Rashmee Ramkumar Children love colours and food presented attractively. Keeping in mind our Independence Day celebrations, we have introduced foods that have shades of saffron, white and green on them.

Makes 12 mini adais (4 portions of 3 adais each) INGREDIENTS TO MAKE BATTER

Vegetables Carrot

3 tbsp (grated)

Raw rice

¼ cup

Spinach 3 tbsp (finely chopped)

Boiled rice

¼ cup

Onion

3 tbsp (finely chopped)

Tur dhal

¼ cup

Oil

3 tbsp

Channa dhal

2 tbsp

Urad dhal

1 tbsp

Curry leaves

few leaves

Asafoetida

1 tsp

Red chilly

3-4

Salt

to taste

This favourite dish from Chennai is a judicious blend of cereals and lentils making it very healthy. The nutritional value of the ‘adai’ can be increased by adding vegetables. This increases the visual appeal as well as the taste. This protein and fibre rich dish can be served as a snack or a meal.

2. To one portion, add the

Shallow fry with oil on both

carrot after leaving some for

sides till golden brown

garnishing each adai.

and crisp.

3. To the second portion, add

6. Garnish the carrot adais with

the spinach leaving some for

carrot and so on.

garnishing each adai.

7. Serve hot with chutney

4. Repeat the same with

or sambar.

onions for the third portion.

8. Each portion can have one

5. Pour out mini adais on

carrot adai, one spinach adai

1. Split the batter into

the tawa to form rounds of

and an onion adai to offer

3 portions.

approximately 7 cm diameter.

variation.

For the green chutney

chutney into a fine paste.

Pudina

½ bunch

4. Using 3 slices of bread

Coriander

½ bunch

for each sandwich assemble

METHOD

1. Let the batter ingredients soak for 4-5 hours.

2. Grind into a coarse paste slightly thicker than dosa batter.

ASSEMBLING THE ADAI

Makes 6 triangular club sandwiches INGREDIENTS

Bread

9 slices

Butter 6 tsp Tomato 2 medium (thinly sliced) For the paneer stuffing Paneer

1 cup (grated)

Cumin powder 2 tsp Garlic powder 1 tsp

(available in super markets)

Butter

1/2 tsp

This club sandwich incorporates an interesting peanut, mint and coriander chutney along with paneer making it an iron and protein rich dish. Double-decker sandwiches are easy to pack in lunch boxes and offer a wholesome meal. The colourful tri-layer is appealing to the eye and children would simply love to eat them.

Roasted peanuts 1/2 cup Garlic 4 pods

the sandwich by applying

Lime

1 tsp

buttered slices. The paneer

Green chilly

1 large

Salt

to taste

green chutney onto two of the filling and sliced tomato can be applied on the third buttered slice. Sandwich them in such

METHOD

a way that the slice with the

1. Butter the slices of bread.

filling comes between the two

2. Sauté the paneer in ½ tsp

chutney slices.

butter along with the cumin

5. Cut into 2 triangles and

powder and garlic powder.

secure each with a toothpick.

3. Grind together all the

6. Repeat along with the other

ingredients for the green

six slices.

Serves 4 a cone onto

INGREDIENTS Hung curd

individual

2 cups

bowls as

(made from 1200 ml yoghurt hung for 3 to 4 hours in a muslin cloth)

Icing sugar

1 ½ cups

desired

Elaichi powder

3 - 4 tsp

and garnish

Saffron

few strands

Pistachio

2 tbsp (finely chopped)

Green and orange colouring

few drops

with chopped pistachio and saffron.

8. Refrigerate till you serve.

METHOD

4. To one portion add the

1. Beat the hung curd along

chopped pistachio and green

with the icing sugar till it is

colouring.

lump free.

5. To the second portion add

2. Add in the elaichi powder

saffron and orange colouring.

and mix well.

6. Keep the third portion as

3. Separate this mixture into 3

plain white.

portions.

7. Pipe the 3 portions using

Exotic vegetables

This aromatic Gujarati dessert is a healthy alternative to ice cream. It is relatively low calorie and protein rich. Children usually love the creamy texture of this dish and parents can experiment with a wide variety of flavours and colours. This extremely simple dish can be made by the children themselves.

in honey mustard dressing

Serves 4 INGREDIENTS

Mustard powder

For the salad

(available in super markets)

Carrot

1 cup (cut into cubes)

Vinegar

2 tbsp

Zucchini 1 cup (cut into cubes)

Olive oil

2 tbsp

Salad seasoning

to taste

Salt

to taste

Broccoli 2 cups (as small florets) Lettuce

for garnishing

For the dressing Honey

2 tbsp

3 tsp

(available in super markets)

METHOD

3. Alternatively the vegetables

1. Whisk all ingredients for the

can be microwaved or steamed

dressing.

for 3 to 4 minutes.

2. Blanch the vegetables. To

4. Arrange the blanched

do this, put them in boiling water for 4-5 minutes till slightly done but still crisp.

Use a mesh sieve to keep the vegetables immersed in boiling water. Immediately put them in

vegetables on a bed of lettuce and top them up with the dressing.

5. Add some more salt and salad seasoning to taste.

ice cold water to maintain their

6. Serve cold or at room

crisp texture and colour.

temperature.

Exotic vegetables are available easily these days and offer a variety to the daily menu. Broccoli with its cancerfighting properties, zucchini with its high folate and potassium content and lettuce with its high iron content make this dish a very nutritious one. The honey mustard dressing offers an interesting tangysweet taste.

Rashmee Ramkumar is a Chennai-based nutritionist who loves experimenting with healthy and tasty recipes.

www.parentcircle.in 47

hands on materials required acrylic paints, brushes, black felt pen dry palm fronds

shinaChitra

ak Courtesy D

broom sticks scissors

needle & thread

1

, each lm fronds ces of pa ie p .

7 e k Ta gh edges ff their rou o t u C . e 2" wid

2

ody ead and b To make h

gs To make le

3

onds, of palm fr ke 2 strips a T wedges long frond, 10" Cut 1/2 cm . g lm n a p lo f " o 6 p on es at Take a stri nd bottom off the edg t the top a half. Snip a in it r e ld ith fo ne and sides. wedges o alternate ut 1/2 cm et. p p u p one end. C e th ck of ate the ne side to cre

6

ther by pieces toge Stitch all the the 2 in between placing them the fingers ch torso. Stit e th of rs ye la . ' of the hand to the 'elbow

48 Parent Circle / August 2011

7

through Push a stick e the torso of th itch st d an puppet e th at it together center.

nds To make ha

4

fronds, 4" ps of palm ri st 4 ke a T n alternate t angles o cu d n a g lon ch piece. sides in ea

Palm fronds are available at Dakshina Chitra. Call Prabhu at 98412 49600.

Thick cards can be used instead of palm fronds.

gers To make fin

5

s of palm Take 2 strip tiny ng and cut fronds, 3" lo . d n e e wide fingers at th

8

and ink ht colours pet in brig p u p e th t Pain felt pen. face with a e th f o ils in deta

Now your puppet is ready. Flip her around by twisting the stick!

Dancing puppet craft demonstrated by: Rukmani Amma, DakshinaChitra.

roots

Understanding

Lakshmi Swami Dayananda Saraswati

V

aralakshmi Vratham is observed by Hindu women, which falls on 12th August this year. We should meditate on the total significance of Goddess Lakshmi, during the pooja.

Grihalakshmi because you think Lakshmi is only money Dhanalakshmi. In Chennai, on the beach, there is a temple dedicated to the different forms of Lakshmi.

Following is an excerpt from

A good home gives you

Stress-free Living, a book

domestic happiness. To

by Swami Dayananda

make a home you need to be

Saraswati, a prominent

available at home. You have to

teacher of Vedanta.

be a welcome person at home.

“Please understand Lakshmi

The members of your family

Trust in the goodness of

is not just money. You will

should never get prepared

people, in the laws that govern,

lose your domestic happiness

with fastened seat belts for

in their legitimacy, in their

your arrival. You should not be looked upon as a source of terror. Let them welcome you with eagerness. For that you have to spend time with your children because there is Santanalakshmi, wealth of children. Make the spouse happy because she is

Varalakshmi, wealth of marital happiness.

correctness, and so on and it will give you Dhairyalakshmi, wealth of courage.

It is not at all possible to fulfil all your desires. But if you can manage your desires, then there is also Jayalakshmi in your life, wealth of the capacity to manage. Now, your life is free from stress because you have taken care of everything to avoid stress. All forms of

Lakshmi being there, life is filled with meaning and doing.”

Involving children during pooja preparations

Other forms of Lakshmi

Children should be taught the significance of Goddess Mahalakshmi and how she is important

Swamiji has also spoken

for family life. They could also be involved in pooja preparation activities.

earlier of the importance of

For instance, teach them that Lakshmi likes a clean house. (In the north, broomsticks are worshipped as Lakshmi!) This would incentivise them to keep their rooms neat and tidy, on that day. Hopefully, this will become a habit.

Children are interested in drawing Kolams (geometric diagrams with rice powder). Even if it is not greatly artistic, children should be encouraged to involve themselves by drawing small ones, in front of the house and at the sides of doorways or even colouring the inside of one with rice powder. Kaavi (maroon colour) powder is mixed with water and put as contrast border to the white Kolams.

They can help with the general cleaning of the entire home, like freeing it of dust, cobwebs.

Doorways are decorated with Thoranam or mango leaves strung together. (This, like the

kolams is believed to keep bad energies at bay while welcoming inside the principle of Goddess Lakshmi). Children are amused at the ingenious and simple ways in which this Mango leaf thoranam is prepared and can help in making them.

Even in the preparation of the kalasam, children can participate in its decoration by dipping the coconut in turmeric water, spreading rice grains on plantain leaves, by helping fix the two saplings of banana tree on the sides of the mandapam and so on.

having ‘Vidya’ or knowledge as opposed to ‘Avidya’ or ignorance. Vidyalakshmi is an important constituent of the

Ashta Lakshmis.

Dhaanyalakshmi represents the wealth of food grains for the family - the cereals and pulses which are healthy and nourishing.

Gajalakshmi symbolises royalty, fame – a different kind of wealth. Adilakshmi is the priemeval Lakshmi or the Supreme Goddess from whom the world originated. We should pray to her to realise our roots. n

www.parentcircle.in 49

viewpoint applied in calculating the run rate. Extend this concept to calculating the slope of a distance-time graph to get accurate values of speed, velocity and acceleration. This is nothing but differentiation in calculus.

Have patience; do not be in a hurry Learning anything new takes time.

In spite of a deadline, it is advisable to slow down at times, contemplate, think and appreciate the concepts.

Mistakes are inevitable; anything done for the first time may not be perfect Learning something new involves committing mistakes. It is alright to make them. Learning from a tive of age, the learner should be made to

ing fun for children. If we do things

understand why the subject should

differently and follow some principles,

be studied.

the learning process can make children energetic at the end of the day. They would enjoy the process of learning almost as much as playing games.

If a learner does not see the scope of a concept’s application, he will not be interested in learning. Some examples in everyday life can be used as

learning effortless. However, it is the prac-

practical applications of concepts.

will ensure success.

Make the learner see the overall perspective; show children the big picture Often, a subject begins with

Criticism can sap one’s energy Remarks in the name of constructive criticism can actually de-motivate a learner.

Practical utility; how it can be applied

There are a few pointers that can make tice and implementation of all these that

mistake is more important.

Tap the learner’s interest; engage him in an absorbing activity Every learner has a different interest – language, music, dance, swimming, cricket

Appreciate the effort first and then discuss ways to improve it.

Illustrations and examples help reinforce concepts Examples and illustrations make it easier for the learner to assimilate the concept. Concepts can be boring at times but if they are supported by interesting visuals and peppered with examples, they can be understood well.

and so on. It is possible to explain the

Reversing roles helps the learner How inter-

the contents. But whether the objectives of

significance of a subject through the hob-

esting it would be if the learner is given an

learning the subject will be fulfilled or not,

bies of the learner. For example, cricket is

opportunity to teach, allowing him to

is not explained to the learner. Irrespec-

a game where the concept of averages is

express his point of view. The best teachers are considered to be good learners.

Art of visualisation; looking at the problem from various perspectives All learning need not be through paper, pencil or pen.

Discuss a situation, help the learner visualise it and make it interesting.

The ability to visualise can be a great boon and ensures success, if developed early.

Comfort enables learning Anything that is comfortable -- the height of the chair, table or a sitting posture that enables easy access to whatever is required can contribute effectively

PHOTOS CREDIT ARJUN DOGRA & SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES

P

arents and teachers can make learn-

to learning.

Relaxation helps eliminate stress Learning does not happen when the person is tense or in a dilemma. If the learner is unable to relax, then he loses most of the fun in the learning process. If the learner is not able to solve the

Enjoy the smell of flowers, feel the cool breeze or crack a joke – these can be energising.

Exercise can help remove energy blockages Only a healthy body can have a productive mind. Exercise enhances the potential of a learner,

problem by himself, we should not criticize

increases his stamina and inherent capac-

him and make him feel guilty.

ity. He should regularly play games, go for

Avoid comparison; every person is unique Never compare with others. Check for yourself whether there has been any kind of improvement or deterioration from the previous

brisk walks, do yoga, meditation, swimming or a combination of these.

Create a sense of wonder to motivate the learner Any activity that creates a sense of wonder will motivate a

the predominant learning style makes the task of learning easier.

Learning can be fun. It need not create boredom or fatigue. It can be a great

understanding of the concept in

learner. Creating a ‘wow’ feeling can ignite

energiser. This need not necessarily apply

the student.

the initial spark and help a learner attain

only to children; but also to every parent

greater heights.

within whom there is child that is yearning

Take a break from monotony; it can lead to boredom If the same pattern gets repeated over a period of time, it can be boring. Long and continuous efforts towards learning can at times be tiring. Every learner deserves a break.

Identify the learner’s style Some learners predominantly understand concepts through pictures, some through talks and many others through the written word. Identification of

to learn. Identify this desire, nurture it and use it. I wish every learner a very Happy Learning. n Anil Pillai is a civil engineer by profession and the father of a 13-year-old daughter.

discussion point

Can children watch REALITY SHOWS? Can they participate?

music for the past 22 years, I have

EXPERTSPEAK

identified talent for various television

Jayanti Sundar Rajan

shows comprising participants

Child psychologist

over 10 years of age. At the end of

and mother of teenagers, Hyderabad

As a teacher of Carnatic and choral

these shows, all of them seemed to be happy as they got to sing on television for special episodes and took home prizes. This encouraged the performers to give in their best and it generated a lot of goodwill.

till they become young adults. Healthy school and inter- school competitions are good for all-round development. Reality shows give the winners a high, but losers sometimes go into depression.

shows started aping the western programmes across various themes.

Whether the child is interested or not, he or she is forced

When an aspiring, talented child

to attend dance lessons, tennis classes, math tuitions

watches such shows, it could

and so on.

Some parents come to me with their children

Other parents, if they see that their children show budding talent, push them to achieve greatness and

and want them to be trained for singing at

become the best. This becomes a huge problem if the

reality shows. I gently discourage them and

little ones feel stressed out and suffer silently.

explain that art is not saleable. It takes a lot of time and effort to really become passionate and get to that level.

There are no shortcuts. Any form of art should be learnt for art's sake and not based on unrealistic goals. It is very sad that parents are ill-informed and want their children to join the band-wagon. It puts loads of untold pressure on them and affects their holistic growth. However, some children set their eyes on winning a show and work tirelessly towards it, and win it too. They live for awhile in an imaginary bubble which eventually bursts and leaves them disillusioned for life.

Please send in your responses before August 15 2011 to editorial@ parentcircle.in with the subject line ‘Discussion Point’, or send them to PARENT CIRCLE, 3rd Floor, Shri Renga Vihar, 8/14 First Cross St, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020, India.

reality shows. Children do not develop these traits

Over the years, television

generate mixed feelings in him.

SHOULD TEACHERS BE VERY FRIENDLY OR STRICT WITH CHILDREN?

It takes lot of determination and maturity to handle

Sudha Raja, Principal, Suswara School of Music, Chennai

Very often, the parents are in it for the money that the child generates, or for a share of the fame that comes through the child. They don’t stop to think about the psyche of the child and how his or her mental wellbeing is affected. Parents who are pushy and ambitious live vicariously through their children and exploit them – they are like businessmen seeking to make the best of opportunities.

Venkataraghavan Srinivasan, Chennai Is it a reality show or a talent show? Reality shows are a fake despite the name; it is all about entertainment ultimately. Children should not be forced to take part in these, in my view.

The competition factor should be kept out of these shows. It should just provide a platform to showcase

Arun Prasaad, London

a child's talent. Whether the child wins or loses, the

If parents don’t put competitive pressure on the child,

maximum pressure is from the parents. I have witnessed

reality shows are OK. There are experienced judges

this as a judge for several musical reality shows.

in the panel, who give very good suggestions on

Rajalakshmee Sanjay,

improvement and give off-stage guidance. The child

Playback singer and mother, Chennai

also develops self-confidence, gets rid of stage fear.

However, children are often made to sit the whole day

The problem with most parents today is that they tend

during the shoots and this can get very tedious for them.

to force on their children their own failed ambitions.

If the school does not co-operate during these all-day

Therefore, when they have children to boss around, their

sessions, then the study burden is an additional one.

dormant and unachieved ambitions come to the fore.

S Sundaresan, Media Consultant, Chennai

52 Parent Circle / August 2011

CLASSIFIEDS

Education

Chillies Fun Zone is an activity centre for kids where parents can also accompany their kids and make them play. Equipments available – play gym, cars, mini trampoline, library, mini theatre, toddler room, mini kitchen and more. They also have activities like drawing, flute, karate, Bharatnatyam, Carnatic–vocal. Located at Anna Nagar, Ph:04445563197.

Little Angels is a play school that has seats for special kids (Autism/ Asperger/ speech delay/ slow learners) as well. It also conducts tuitions from LKG to 7th std including Hindi. Little Angels also offers activity centre, Chess, Drawing, Dance, Story Telling and Communication plus Yoga and Aerobics for mothers and children.

For more details contact 13/9 third lane, Habibullah Road, T.Nagar Chennai 600017. Call 28341368 or 28342236.

Sports

Born to Fight at 45, Landons Road, Kilpauk offers Karate classes for children and women. Personal training is also given. Contact M Ayyappan mobile: 9841323914, 9566279977 Email: ayyappansensei@yahoo.co.in.

for children above 5 years. For further details call 9444478092.

All in one/ Miscellaneous Chennai Champs offers a variety of after school activities like Art & Craft, Yoga, Aerobics, Personality Development, Karate, Silambam, Kalari, Kick Boxing, Kobudu, different dances, Music, Chess, Language classes and Handwriting. Contact 9840990499 #49, Umapathy Street, Arya Gowda Road West Mambalam, Chennai -600033.

The Yellow Bus has exclusive evening activity programmes like Classical Bharathanatyam, Carnatic Vocal, Keyboard, Chess, Drawing, Art & Craft, Edusports, Karadi Tales. For details contact Mrs. Hema Chari at 9884549688/ 45511819.

Jack and Jill organises classes for kids in Karate, Drawing, Yoga, Dance, Music, Sloka, Keyboard and Guitar. Ph: 04466247855, 9003107278.

Art/Music/Dance

Chess Mate at 6th Main Road, Kasturba Nagar, Adyar conducts chess classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays: 4.30 p.m to 7.30 p.m, Saturdays: 4 p.m to 8 p.m Sundays 9 a.m to 1 p.m Call 09940094718 or 04445587473.

STUDIO41 at A-2 Sea Point Apartments, 41A Beach Road, Kalakshetra Colony conducts art & craft classes for women and children. Drawing and Painting classes are an after school activity for children in the age group of 7-16 yrs from 5-6 p.m Mondays/Tuesdays/ Thursdays and Fridays. Special coaching classes are conducted for NATA, NID, VISCOM entrance exams and portfolio preparation. Folk art forms are also taught here. Contact 9381094646.

Gat Table Tennis Club offers four classes a week for children in the age group of 8 to 15 at No 4, Opp. Pilot Theatre, Anthony Street, Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014. Contact 9884578477.

Om Sri Sai Arts offers basic drawing courses and also advanced painting techniques in all kind of mediums. Contact 61/25, Arya Gowda Road, West Mambalam Contact 9884214695.

MK Cricket Foundation No. 33/16, Opp. Manthopu School, Kaveri Street, Saidapet, Chennai - 600015 conducts two classes a week for cricket, five classes for tennis and six classes for swimming

For your classified advertisements contact us at PARENT CIRCLE, 3rd Floor Shri Renga Vihar, 8/14 First Cross St, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020, India. Ph. no.

24461066/67/68. Email: advertise@ parentcircle.in. Listing is free for a limited period.

An exclusive magazine for the Parent in you!

Parent Circle Know. Understand. Connect.

Global insights. Local issues.

To advertise call 044 24461067 or email advertise@parentcircle.in To subscribe call 044 24461067 or email subscription@parentcircle.in

events

CHENNAI this month August 5

August 13 – 14

R.K. Sivaswamy Kalalaya Sr. Sec. School, No.5, Sundareswarar Street, Mylapore

8 by 8 TN State level tournament

Bharathanatyam Programme by dance group of “Sri Saraswathi

State-level chess tournaments for

Bharathanatyam Performance

Gana Nilayam” (Smt. Ranganayaki Jayaraman, Director) hosted

by Indian Council for Cultural Relations and Sri Ariyakudi Music Foundation under the monthly “Horizon” Programme 6.30 p.m (044 24460767)

children at the age group of 8, 10, 12, 15 (98407 03544, 72000 03544, 8by8club@gmail.com)

August 14

Kids Workshop August 6

Indira Nagar

Free the Tree campaign

A fun workshop for children between the age group of 7-13

Natesan Park, T.Nagar

9.30 – 11.30 a.m (90030 11372/ 98402 21241)

Help and understand the trees in your neighbourhood, join Nizhal in a ‘Free the Tree’ Campaign

From August 15

4.30 p.m (90030 11372/ 98402 21241)

Crash course AIMS Education, 463, Anna Salai, L.R.

Till August 7

Swami Buildings, 2nd Floor, Teynampet

Adiperuku Ayyanar Festival

A three-month course for 10th

DakshinaChitra, East Coast Road, Muttukadu

and 12th students of CBSE and

Kaaliaattam by Muthukumar and troupe from Madhurapuri, Trichy

Matriculation schools. Enrollment open

044 27472603/ 27472783

from August 1. (044 24364954)

August 19 – 21

English for kids : YLE Starters Hansel & Gretel, 11, Jagadambal Street (Near Pondy Bazaar), T.Nagar A preparatory course for the University of Cambridge ESOL, YLE exams for children. These exams provide a reliable measure of how well they do in the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Level: Starters 7yrs – 9yrs (044 28152549)

Till August 31

Children’s Mela DakshinaChitra, East Coast Road, Muttukadu

August 6-7

Folk performance, Puppet show, Story telling, Bullock cart ride, Magic

Drawing Contest

show and much more. (044 27472603/ 27472783)

Max Mueller Bhavan, 4, Rutland Gate, 5th Street On the theme ‘My State, My Life, My Future’ (044 28331314/ 28332343)

54 Parent Circle / August 2011

For event listings contact us at PARENT CIRCLE, 3rd Floor Shri Renga Vihar, 8/14 First Cross St, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai 600020, India. Ph. no.

24461066/67/68. Email info@parentcircle.in with the subject line ‘Events’.

Madras Week Celebrations

event calendar

August 19

Photo Exhibition on trees of Chennai Ever dreamt of being the Salim Ali of trees? Nizhal now offers you a chance to exhibit photos of the different trees of Chennai! The photos will be exhibited at a venue during the Madras Week celebrations. Participants will be issued certificates. Photographs should be of size 8”x 11” and mounted. (9003011372/ 9840221241)

August 21 & 28

Madras Week Tree Walks Independence Day Park, Valluvarkottam (August 21) Guindy Children’s Park (August 28) Celebrate Madras Week and join Nizhal on a Tree Walk! To commemorate this occasion, they are organising walks on two consecutive Sundays. (9003011372/ 9840221241)

August 21 & 27

Heritage Walk Gallery of the Government Museum, Egmore History enthusiast Pradeep Chakravarthy will take children and their families on a guided tour of the Bronze Museum which will trace the history of the development of the bronzes.

Time: 3.00 - 3.45 p.m. To register, email: pradeepandanusha@gmail.com with your name, number of people accompanying you and date of walk.

August 23

Heritage of Chennai (Multimedia Presentation Contest) Srinivasa Sastri Hall, Luz, Mylapore

The contest encourages city school students to explore Chennai’s history and heritage and present the topic of their choice in multimedia form.

Last date for submission of entries: August 13, 2011 For more details log on to: http://themadrasday.in/category/contests/

August 24

Guided tour of DakshinaChitra DakshinaChitra, East Coast Road, Muttukadu Take a tour of DakshinaChitra from 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Organised by Namma Mylapore.

Led by Dr Chithra Madhavan, historian and archaeologist. For reservations call 99414 50776 or email nathanlatha@yahoo.com

August 28

Heritage Walk Gallery of the Government Museum, Egmore 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Organised by Namma Mylapore. Led by Dr Chithra Madhavan, historian and archaeologist. For reservations call 99414 50776 or mail to nathanlatha@yahoo.com

www.parentcircle.in 55

lighter vein because I told Lindsay and Mia that you could drive us to the pool.”

“I won't be long,” I say. “But right now I'm waiting.”

Carol Band

I hang up the phone, stroll down the hallway

S

ome people complain about waiting.

toward the toaster and told them that I'd be

and take a sip from the water fountain. I use

Not me. I like it. Waiting is doing

home in less than an hour. They could call

the restroom, examine my mouth for signs

nothing. And I like doing nothing.

my cell phone but only if there was a

of gum disease and savor the experience of

real emergency.

being uninterrupted.

miracle of time and space, perhaps a worm

“That's OK,” I said to the receptionist. “I don't

Beep beep beep beeeeeeeeeep …

hole at the end of my street, I have left the

mind waiting. I don't mind a bit.”

I am in the dentist's waiting room. By some

chaos of my kitchen and arrived five minutes

“Mom?” It's

I flip through the Journal of Periodontology

my oldest son,

and read about gum disease and tissue

Nathan. “Uh, I

I check in with the receptionist, sit down

inflammation. There are photos. I am

was making

and peruse the two magazines in the rack.

having fun.

Eggos

“Sorry to keep you waiting,” the receptionist

and there

early for my appointment.

There is the Journal of Periodontology and a year-old copy of Family Circle. Naturally, I pick up the Family Circle. By the time the

says. “I'm sure that Dr. Perlmutter will be

was a tiny

right with you.”

mishap with

to make a holiday table runner (so what if

“It's fine,” I say. “Really.”

think it's mostly

it's August?), discovered the seven secrets

Now some people complain about waiting.

smoke

Not me. I like it. Waiting is doing nothing.

damage.

And I like doing nothing. While I wait for my

The firemen

son's swimming lesson to end, I nap. While

said it was

“The dentist is running a little late,” the

I'm on hold with the credit card company, I

safe to go

receptionist warns me. “I hope you don't

doodle. I even let people cut in front of me in

back in

mind waiting a few minutes.”

the supermarket checkout line just so I can

the house.

read the headlines in the tabloids.

Maybe you

receptionist calls my name, I have learned

to a successful marriage, and copied a recipe for pineapple upside-down cake. I am thoroughly enjoying myself.

Do I mind!? Is she kidding? I am thrilled! I

the toaster. I

should write

am in a quiet room with comfortable chairs,

I'm never in a rush to get home because I

reading material and no kids. This is the best

know that although the house will probably

part of my day – maybe even the best part of

still be standing, nobody will have let the

my summer.

dog out, closed a cabinet, turned out a light,

I walk back to the waiting room, sit down and

taken a coherent phone message or cleaned

turn off the cell phone.

up anything they spilled. I will have to referee

“Oh, Mrs. Band,” the receptionist calls out.

When I left the house a few minutes ago, I put my

fights, find lost sneakers, mop up dog pee

two oldest

and sponge melted popsicles from the

children in

upholstery. So I don't mind waiting.

charge of their younger

Beep beep beep beep beeeeep. It's the Tchaikovsky tune.

to the waffle company and ask for your money back.”

“We thought you had left. Dr. Perlmutter is seeing his 9:30 patient now. Would you like to make an appointment for another day?”

“No, thanks,” I say. “I think I'll just wait.” n Carol Band is a journalist by training and mom

brother.

“Mom?” This time it's my daughter, Perry.

by chance. This article was originally published

I handed

“Lewisiseatingpopsiclesinthelivingroomandi

in her column ‘Household Word’ by Dominion

them a

t'smakingahugemessandhe'shoggingtheTV

Parenting Media. Please send your feedback to

box of Eggos,

andit's … NOT FAIR!” She pauses to catch

editorial@parentcircle.in with a cc to carol@

pointed them

her breath. “Also, when are you coming back

carolband.com.

Owned and Published by Nalina Ramalakshmi from No.8/14, First Cross Street, Karpagam Gardens, Adyar, Chennai - 600020, and Printed by: R Dhayalan at Sun Graphics, 51 Gangai Amman Koil Street, Vadapalani, Chennai - 600026. Editor: Nalina Ramalakshmi, Phone No: 044-2446 1066/67/68.

56 Parent Circle / August 2011

R.Dis.No.197/11

Like relationships,

it strengthens with time!

Parent Circle Volume 1 Issue 4 August 2011 Price ` 40

P.18 Cover Story

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