Apr 24, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

This Sunday was the twenty-fourth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in the class:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers. For the opening prayers we chanted Om three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu.
2. We recapped why we learn P and Q in the end in Vedantic way of alphabet,  introduced the Letter Q - Quite.
3. During Brainstorming time, we discussed what is quietness and Why we need to be quiet? And benefits of maintaining silent. 
4. Then we did Yoga and each kid did their favorite poses. 
5. Used daily life examples to explain how it bothers as when other people do not maintain quietness when the we sleep, do homework, doing pooja, visiting Temple or social gathering places. Explained to the kids that the same way others feel when we do not maintain quietness. 
6. Practiced the shell game for quietness and asked the kids how they feel inside/mind when they maintain that silence. 
7. For Story time, through the story of the Swan and Turtle moving from one Lake to another Lake, highlighted the importance of being silent when important tasks are being done.
8. With that we finished learning all the alphabets in Vedantic way. Next class we will discuss the Annual day program performance and will start practice on that way. 
9. Due to 4th grade monthly program, we ended the class early to join that.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Apr 10, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the twenty-third class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers. For the opening prayers who chanted Om three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. We recapped the letters what we learnt till last week and asked the kids whether we covered all letters and most of kids remembered that we haven't learnt letter P and Q which is meant to be learn at the end. 

3. After discussing why we learn P and Q in the end in Vedantic way of alphabet,  introduced the Letter P - Prayer. 

4. During Brainstorming time, we discussed what is prayer? Showing our love, appreciation and thankful for what God has given for us to live this life. and why we pray? Prayer brings closer to god and keep our mind and action pure. and what are the ways to pray? Bhajans, Japa, going to Temple, helping others, doing pooja etc., kids shared where the pooja room is in their house. 

5. Since today is Rama Navami we talked about the greatness of Rama and how chanting Rama's name help us to keep us in the path of dharma. 

7. For Story time, through the story of the Gajendra Moksha explained how Bhakti towards god saved the Elephant King Gajendra and how he attained moksha. Talked about Who was Gajendra in his previous life and what made him remember god during his present life to think of god during his life struggle with crocodile. We learnt that "Total

Surrender to God will Help to live better life and attain Moksha"

8. Then we did Yoga with new Pose of Statue of Liberty as one kid went to NYC yesterday and he wanted to show the kids, so we had fun doing Statue of Liberty pose. 

9. Shared another story of King who does not believe in God and his son. How his young son taught the king about the Creator of the entire world by looking at the nature. Then we talked about Sun, moon, mountains, river, valley and all aspects of creation. 

10. Kids took turn to do Alphabet chant with clap clap and snap snap rhythm. 

11. Then we chanted Bhajans together - Ganesha, Krishna, Rama and Hanuman.

12. Attendance was taken.

With closing prayer, class was ended with remark of spring break. It was a another wonderful week with the kids. Thank you, parents for sitting with kids and helping them.

Have a wonderful spring break! The next Balavihar class is on the 24th Apr. 

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Apr 3, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the twenty-second class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers. For the opening prayers who chanted Om three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. We did the Alphabet chant and then introduced the next Letter Y - Yajna is a fire ritual performed to please God. And Yajna Spirit is to work towards a common cause with dedication, sacrifice and service.

3. During Brainstorming time, we discussed what Yajna is - a fire ritual performed by the priests with Vedic chanting and special offerings in order to appease Gods and bring about auspiciousness and good for all. And we discussed Yajna Spirit - by explaining the work done by many people by their volunteer work in terms of food drive, blood drive, toy drive, helping in temple etc. And how all the scientists and doctors worked hard and created the vaccine for Corona virus to help mankind. 

4.For Exploration time, we discussed Yajna spirit - if someone in our home spills beans or popcorn, instead of we just watching it, we all can help and pick up each corn/bean and work together to gather everything from the floor.

5. For Story time, through the story of the Enormous Turnip- we learnt that "We must all work together, even the smallest and weakest can help to achieve our goals." 

6. Then we introduced the next letter 'Z-Zeal is doing things with great passion, enthusiasm, fervor, and eagerness' 

7. During Exploration time, we discussed couple of scenarios and home projects which each of us perform with passion and eagerness. And we explained to kids, small projects like this help us build our passion and enthusiasm. And for the Alphabet chant we chanted 'Bal Vihar Zindabad'.

8. Then we chanted Bhajans together - Ganesha, Krishna, Rama and Hanuman.

9. Attendance was taken.

It was a lively class with all kids actively participating. Thank you, parents for sitting with kids and helping them.

Have a wonderful week ahead.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Mar 27, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the twenty-first class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers. The opening prayers were led by three kids who chanted Om three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu and we all joined. 

2. Then we introduced the letter of the day as 'X- Excellence is to do something outstandingly well'.

3. During the Exploration session, we discussed to achieve excellence we need plenty of practice, dedication, and perseverance. And discussed about Swimming, cycling activities which though take time to learn, but we can excel with practice.

4. During Story time, through the story of Thomas Alva Edison, we learnt how Edison built the light bulb and how he was wrong 1000 times and succeeded the 1001th time which shows 'Perseverance succeeds'. And when asked about his failures, he said with a positive attitude and conviction that he knew he would succeed, and said he now knows a thousand ways of how not to make an electric light bulb.

5. Then through the story of the Big Frog and the Small Frog, we learnt that 'We should never give up and always keep trying' 

6. After this, Attendance was taken. 

7. Then we learnt the Hanuman Bhajan - we explained the meaning and repeated it together word by word.

8. After this, we joined the 2nd grade Annual program, where we learnt some more about Hanuman ji and small bhajans.

It was a lively class with all kids actively participating. Please note, to make the best use of time for some kids who are joining early, we are making them practice bhajans to help them learn.

Have a wonderful week ahead.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Mar 13, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents,

Today was the  twentieth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in the class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers. We together chanted the opening prayers starting with three Oms and then chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. We practiced Bhajans -Ganesha, Krishna and Rama.

3.One of kids had participated in the Slokhaton, and shared with the rest of the kids the slokhas she had chanted for the competition.

4.Then we introduced the next letter W - Work is effort directed to produce or accomplish something. And that Dreaming about something will not get us what we want. We have to work hard to be rewarded. 

 

5. For Yoga time, we did Jumping Jacks, snake pose and Lion pose. 

6. For Brainstorming, we discussed few day-to-day scenarios where hard work helps and get us what we want. And if you want something, you have to make the effort. No one else can do it for you. 

7. During Story time, through the story of The Ant and The Grasshopper - we learnt that we must work hard in order to play and enjoy.

8. Then we told another story to kids, about the Villager's Dream-though which we learnt, the concept of working, and not worrying about the fruits of the efforts and we need to work to achieve things we want, and not just daydream about the results and the happiness all those things would bring.

9. After this, Attendance was taken. 

10. For Exit ticket, kids were asked to complete the Coloring sheets and Activity sheet.

11. And then concluded the session after chanting the Closing Prayers.

It was a lively class with all kids actively participating. Please note, to make the best use of time for some kids who are joining early, we are making them practice bhajans to help them learn.

Have a wonderful week ahead.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Mar 6, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents,

Today was the nineteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers. We together chanted the opening prayers starting with three Oms and then chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. We introduced the next letter of the day T is for Truth which means integrity and sincerity in words and actions. And that we need to be truthful by not being scared of the consequences and understanding that it is always better to tell the truth than lies. And Ultimately Truth alone always triumphs.

3. During Brainstorming session, we discussed various scenarios to discuss when we say the truth and when we tell lies. We lie when we feel that the truth will get us into trouble, but a lie will save us. We lie because we feel we will benefit by lying. And we lie because we forget: Ultimately, truth alone wins.

4. During Storytime, through the story of the Boy who cried Wolf, we learnt that by lying, we can hurt ourselves and others around us. And kids were taught 'Satyam vada, Priyam vada'.

5. For Yoga time, we did Jumping Jacks, Tree pose and Lion pose. 

6.Then we introduced the next letter of the day V is for Victory- is when you attain your goal. To be victorious, work hard and always speak the truth. And we discussed small and big goals and how kids can be victorious. 

7. During Storytime, through the story of the Marathon Race, we learnt, that it's not always about being victorious, it's about winning together and being considerate to each other.

8. During Exploration time, we learnt about the Emblem of India and what it represents and the inscription states 'Satyameva Jayate - Truth alone Triumphs'.

9. We played a small game, where kids were asked to touch a wall and return, and each one was asked to do it by different actions, like walking, running, hopping etc. And we learnt to that no matter what action they used to touch the wall, as the goal was to touch the wall, they are all winners.

10. During Storytime, through the story of the Satya Harishchandra, we learnt that in spite of troubling times we should be truthful and follow the path of Truthfulness.

Overall, we had a wonderful time with our kids and practiced bhajans as students were joining in.

Have a wonderful week ahead.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Feb 27, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents,

Today was the eighteen class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers. We together chanted the opening prayers starting with three Oms and then chanted Sahana vavatu.

2.  For today's class JHCYKs volunteered to teach the kids. Sachit, Varun and Raghav joined the class and taught the kids the below sections.

3. For Brainstorming, through the Doll Activity sheet -introduced the letter of the day as U -  Unity is to join hands and work together to help each other.

4. During the Exploration session, we discussed about Unity in Body, all body parts are different. They look different, they function differently. Yet, they all work together. This is called Unity in Diversity. For examples, we discussed how food comes to our table, how bicycle works, how we assemble Legos, or toys etc. 

5.For Activity, using the Big Fish, Small Fish - we learnt - Through unity, we can overcome the greatest challenges and become stronger.

6.For Story time, through the story of the Four Cows, we learnt that 'We have a far better chance of protecting ourselves from an enemy if we stand together'. And United we stand, divided we fall.

7. We had another Activity time, where we learnt, using a strip of paper and tearing it into smaller pieces when its bundled together is a very hard and almost impossible task, which shows It is hard to harm those who are united. And there is Unity in Numbers. 

8. Then we did the Alphabet Chant and learnt that U is for Unity and United we Stand and divided we fall.

Overall, an exciting session and we had a wonderful time with our student teachers who kept our kids engaged and thought the lesson of the day wonderfully.

Have a wonderful week ahead.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Feb 13, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the  eighteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers. The opening prayers were led by one of the kids who chanted 'Om' three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu and we all joined. 

2.All kids wore Blue - to represent Krishna's Cowboys for the House Spirit Day!!  

3.To introduce kids to the house activity they need to participate in, we asked them to write their name in reverse, which they did. And asked to write a small sentence first and then write the same in reverse. Kids eagerly tried their best and succeeded in writing.

4. Then we introduced the House activity task, and gave them the first sentence, all of us together decoded the first sentence. By this time of the kids got a hang of it.

5. Then we provided each kid one sentence each, and all of the kids were engrossed in decoding the words and forming the correct sentence. At this time the House coordinator joined and watched the kids actively participating.

6. As they solved the first sentence assigned, they were given the next sentence, by this time all of the kids picked up speed and all of the 21 sentences were decoded.

7. Then we asked each kid to read the sentence they coded in the order provided and we all heard the beautiful story of Saint Mirabai and her love and devotion for Lord Krishna and how Lod Krishna always took care of Mirabai. And Mirabai was always engrossed in Krishna's thoughts and wrote beautiful bhajans on Lord Krishna. The House Coordinator asked kids questions from the story and was happy with their responses.

8. We identified one of the kids to represent KG class to read the story in the main Zoom session. And this kid did a wonderful job reading it in the main Zoom session.

9.After this, we read and discussed story of Saint Mirabai and asked kid's specific questions to check what they learnt from the story. All answered the questions enthusiastically and thoroughly enjoyed the activity.

10. Then today's attendance was taken as each kid was logging off to join the main session. In the main session, we heard wonderful stories of the various Saints from the other grades.

 

 It was another wonderful session with kids actively participating and we had full attendance today. Kids did an amazing job in decoding the words and were quick to get a grasp of the activity we needed to do, and we finished unscrambling all the 21 sentences provided for KG in a short time. And sincere thanks to our parents for sitting through the session to help the kids and for their active participation.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Laxmi

Feb 6, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the seventeenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers. The opening prayers were led by one of the kids who chanted 'Om' three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu and we all joined. 

2. Then we did the alphabet chant and revised with the kids the key message for each letter we learnt in the Alphabet Safari so far.

3. During Exploration time, we discussed that though the next letter of the alphabet is P, but it's not so in the Vedanta alphabet. In the Vedanta alphabet, letter "R" comes after "O." Why? Because we first need to learn all the values of the alphabet except "P" and "Q." After we learn all these values, we become fit to do prayers, and learn about the letter "P" which stands for prayer. When we offer prayers to

the Lord, what is the result? The result is, we become quiet, and learn about the letter "Q."

4.We introduced that the next letter of the day R stands for Right-is that which is morally good, just, fair, or means correct action.

5.During Brainstorming time, we discussed what Doing the Right Thing means. We played a game where kids were asked to raise their hand, if they think it's right thing to do, or stay quiet if they think it's the wrong thing to do, we went over different scenarios to help kids reflect on the right thing to do in each scenario. And discussed that we need to do the right thing even if no one is watching and we ourselves know what the right thing is and that we ourselves know when we don't do the right thing.

6. During Storytime for the letter R, through the story of The Rock on the Road, we learnt that we need to Do the right thing, even if nobody else is doing it. Doing the right thing always brings good rewards and happiness in the end. 

7.Then we introduced the letter of the day as S for Smile - a facial expression of joy and happiness. We discussed that happy and funny things makes us smile. And when we smile, people want to talk to us and make us happy.

8.In the Brainstorming session, we discussed various scenarios which makes us happy and smile. And to smile is easy and a simple thing to do to make everyone happy. When we smile, we stay healthy and a Smile is contagious, hence everyone around us also smiles and is happy as well.

9.For Exploration time, we asked kids to use the Activity sheet to find the Hidden Smile. And kids were taught 'Wear a Smile and stay in Style'.

10. For Activity time, we asked one of the kids to volunteer and to not smile, while the rest of the kids participated and shared jokes and funny stuff to make the volunteer kid to Smile.

11. During today's attendance we asked each of the kids to give a sweet smile and say HariOm. All the kids followed the same, and it was wonderful to see their beautiful smiles.

12.For Yoga time, we all did stretch exercises while laughing out loud (similar to laughing therapy sessions). Kids shared funny jokes and made everyone laugh. 

 It was another wonderful session with kids actively participating.  And thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids and for your participation.  Please note, to make the best use of time for some kids who are joining early, we are making them practice bhajans /Geeta chanting to help them learn.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Jan 30, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the sixteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers. The opening prayers were led by one of the kids who chanted 'Om' three times and then chanted Sahana vavatu and we all joined. 

2. Then we did the alphabet chant and revised with the kids the key message for each letter we learnt in the Alphabet Safari so far.

3. Then we introduced the letter of the day 'O'-is for Obedience which means dutifully doing what one is told to do without protesting. We discussed why we need to listen and obey our parents, elders and teachers and not argue, as they by their experience know what is good for us and will keep us safe and happy.

4. In the Brainstorming session, we discussed what will happen if the Sun does not set in the evening? What happens if mom does not cook food every day? What happens if no one will follow the road signs? Why is there a need to do everything in order? because otherwise there will be chaos. And when everyone and everything works in orderly fashion there will be 'harmony'. 

To maintain this harmony, all things and beings have to obey the rules of nature. Through different scenarios, we went over why kids need to obey and explained that sometimes even if we do not like what we hear and what we have to do, as it is in our best interest to listen and obey.

5. Then we explained about the 3 Guru's and explained that parents are also our Guru's as they teach us the right thing to do, and we need to obey them at all times. And we all together chanted 

 ' GururBrahma GururVishnu GururDevo Maheshwaraha

  Guru Saakshaat ParaBrahma Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha '

6. During Storytime for letter O, through the story of the Obedient Child we learned that we should Be Obedient and save yourself from trouble.

7. Then we recited together Geeta verses 41,42 and repeated it word by word and practiced couple of times.

8. Attendance was taken by each kid saying 'Hari Om' when their name was called out.

9. Today we had monthly program by 8th graders, we all joined the other zoom session. And we learnt a nice message RT, RP, RT i.e., Doing the right thing, at the right place, at the right time and follow the path of dharma through their presentation from Mahabharata.

It was a lively class with all kids actively participating.

Thanking all Parents, for sitting with kids and helping them through the session. Please note, to make the best use of time for some kids who are joining early, we are making them practice bhajans to help them learn.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Jan 23, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the fifteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.We started the class with the Opening prayers by chanting 'Om' three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu. 

2.Then we asked Kids to do the Alphabet chant and introduced the next letter of the day 'M' is for Mother. Mother cares, nurtures, and protects us and Alphabet chant for letter M is - 'Mathru devo bhava'.

3. During Brainstorming session, we discussed the various ways we can express love to our Mother by helping her, respecting her, listening to her and respecting her.

4.During Story time, through two stories, Mommy's Love and P.S. I love you Mom, we learnt that Mom's love is very powerful and when you love someone, you don't demand anything in return. 

5. During exploration time, we learnt that 'Mother Nature', 'Mother India, Mother USA', 'Mother Sruti', 'Mother Earth' and 'Mother Cow' are all symbols of Mother who we worship. They care for us, nourish us and sustain us. We discussed the 3 R's Reduce, Reuse and Recycle to help Mother Earth.

 

6. For Yoga time, we did jumping jacks, tree pose, lion pose and cobra pose (was taught by one kid).

7. Then we recited together Geeta verses 39,40 and 41,42.  And we asked all the kids to practice verses 39 and 40 for the next class. Some of the kids learnt these two verses.

8. Attendance was taken by each kid saying 'Hari Om' when their name was called out.

9.We introduced the next letter 'N'- is for Nobility - is upholding high moral standards and strong character. And that we can be noble by taking care of others and putting others needs first.

10.In the Brainstorming session we discussed about noble deeds and how we can do simple deeds for others by putting others needs first and help others.  And we can develop noble qualities by learning from great people.

11.During Story time, through the story of the Noble Cow - we learnt that being truthful and righteous is always rewarding, and we should show compassion towards all.

12.For Exit ticket, we asked kids to learn the Geeta verses 39 and 40 and practice Ganesha, Krishna and Rama bhajans.

Lastly, we said the closing prayers together and concluded the session. It was a lively session with all kids actively participating and we had full attendance.

Thanking all Parents, for sitting with kids and helping them through the session. Please note, to make the best use of time for some kids who are joining early, we are making them practice bhajans to help them learn.

  

 

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Jan 9, 2022 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the fourteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu and we together chanted Ganesha, Krishna and Ram bhajans.

2.For Yoga, we did jumping jacks, tree pose, and butterfly pose and virtually visited our ashram and bowed to all Gods.

3.Then we did the Alphabet chant and introduced the next letter of the day 'L' and that it stands for 'Love' which means being affectionate. And that we express our Love through good behavior and serving others.

4. During Brainstorming session, we discussed various ways, we can express our Love for others. And that God loves us all the most.

5. During Story time, by way of two stories, Gandhiji's Love and the Best Gift, we learnt that Love could change a person to become good and one can show Love by doing good things and behaving well with others and we can show our love through simple deeds every day.

6. Then we asked kids to do complete the Puzzle -Make a Word - which spells out LOVE. And then kids were asked to complete the Activity -'The House I built' which shows them the importance of Love. And learnt that Love binds all the members of the family and keeps them together.

7. Kids were asked to share how they express their love to their family and the simple deeds they do to show love to their family.

8. Attendance was then taken. Lastly, we said the closing prayers together and concluded the session.

Another exciting session with our wonderful kids. Kids actively participated and shared their thoughts and views with us. And thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids.

Have a wonderful week ahead!! Next Sunday is a holiday due to Makara Sankranthi!! Next class is on Jan 23rd.

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Dec 19, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the thirteenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu and kids chanted together Ganesha and Krishna bhajans and recited it individually.

2.  Then we sang the Ram Bhajan and chanted together, and few kids chanted it individually.

3. Attendance was taken by each kid saying Hari Om when their name was called out.

4. We did the Alphabet chant and introduced the next letter of the day 'K' and that it stands for 'Kindness' which means being gentle, generous and good natured. And that we can be kind to others with our actions and be helpful. And when we are kind and helpful, God takes care of all our needs.

5. During Brainstorming session, we discussed various ways in which we can be kind and gentle during our daily actions and be kind to all without expecting anything in return.

6. For Story time, through the story of Prince Siddhartha and the Swan, we learnt the kindness of Prince Siddhartha was towards the swan. And that we should be kind to all living beings.

7. For Yoga, we did jumping jacks, tree pose, and butterfly pose with kids leading the session.

8. Through the story of the Slave and the Lion, we learnt that Kindness helps and by doing kind deeds to all living beings without expecting anything in return, God takes care of all our needs.

9. Then Kids were asked to color the sheet given.

11. Then for Geeta chanting, we practiced verses from Ch2 39, and 40 and also taught the next verse 41, kids actively chanted and learnt the verses.

12. And then we joined the main session for 9th grade annual class play. 

 Another exciting session with our wonderful kids. Kids actively participated and shared their thoughts and views with us. And thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids.

Wishing everyone a very Happy Winter break and see you all in the new year!! Wishing everyone a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!!

Next Balavihar class on January 9th, 2022.

 

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Dec 12, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the tenth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  Started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu with one of the kids leading.

2. We explained why we chant Om three times and say Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi three times. 

3. Then we practiced the Ganesh Bhajan and Krishna Bhajan, some of the kids chanted individually. And then we introduced the Rama bhajan and explained the meaning and repeated it word by word.

4.For Yoga time, we did Jumping Jacks, forward walking pose, tree pose, and lion pose.

5. Then we did the alphabet chant until letter 'H' with one of the kids leading it.

6. Next, we introduced the next letter 'I' - stands for Intelligence and that Intelligence is the mental ability of understanding and learning new facts. 

7. For Brainstorming session - kids were asked questions on what mind is? what is Intellect? and explained that Intellect helps us decide what is right and what is wrong, our Mind helps us recognize specific object or situation. And that our intellect gives us good advice; but, to become a good person, we must also learn to listen to our intellect, just as we listen to our parents. 

8. During Exploration time, we learnt the difference between humans and animals is that humans possess a well-developed mind and an intellect, while animals do not. And that we need to use our Intellect wisely by making right choices. And we discussed why an Elephant is considered as very intelligent.

9. During Story time, one of kids told the story of the Celestial Fruit, through which we learnt that you use your intellect, to become victorious.

10. Then we introduced the next letter 'J' - stands for 'Japa which means repeating God's name with devotion. This improves our concentration, helps our mind to focus better and makes it calm.

11. During Brainstorming session, we discussed: What is Japa? Japa is the repetition of the Lord's name. And explained that we can take the Lord's name while doing any activity and keep chanting. And by chanting God's name, it strengthens our mind and improves our concentration.

12. For Activity time, we shared a Picture on the screen containing many objects for few mins and then asked each kid what they remember from it to test their concentration skills. Some of the kids were able to remember and say some of the objects from the picture shared.

13. And then we discussed, why do we need to learn to concentrate and pay attention? By concentrating on a task and paying attention, we can succeed.

14. Then we learnt the song 'Khate Bhi Ram Kaho' by playing a video of this song sung by our Balavihar kids from youtube. Kids learnt the song and were chanting along. Also, we asked the kids to chant it with their favorite God's name. 

15. Then, we explained that - Om represents all the words, and everything in the world. We explained how to chant Om and explained that we need to chant it three times before starting any work to help us focus better. 

16. We made each kid say Om 3 times, while their Attendance was taken.

17. For Exit ticket, we told the kids to do Nama japa along with their family for some time and to chant God's name during the week while doing their activities

18. Lastly, we said the closing prayers and concluded the session.

 

Another exciting session with our wonderful kids. Kids were participating and sharing their views. The Geeta chanting videos have been shared please make kids practice. For today's class we covered 2 letters I and J.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Dec 5, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the nineth class of Balavihar!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1.  We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. We started the class with Yoga, some of the kids led this session, we did Jumping Jacks, tree pose, soldier pose, etc.

3. Then we did the alphabet chant until letter G together.

4. Then introduced the next letter H -is for Happiness and during Brainstorming session, we discussed various instances which makes us happy and sad. And explained that Happiness is a state of the mind and is actually not related to any object or person.

5. During Exploration time, through various examples and through virtual train ride, we explained that we should be content with what we have and be happy in all situations and always encourage happy thoughts. 

6. Then we did some quiet time by doing Body Scan meditation.

7.Then we explained the meaning of Bhagvad Geeta Ch 2 verses 39 and 40, chanted it multiple times. Couple of kids were able to chant it independently. Kids were asked to practice BG Ch 2 verses 39 and 40 for next class.

8.Attendance was taken by each kid saying Hari Om when their name was called out.

9. Then one of kids chanted the Ganesha bhajan and Krishna bhajan 

10. Lastly, we said the closing prayers and concluded the session.

 Another exciting session with our wonderful kids. Kids were happily participating and sharing their views. The Geeta chanting videos have been shared please make kids practice.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Nov 21, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the Eighth class of Balavihar 2021-2022!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session:

1. We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu, led by one of the kids. 

2. Each kid individually chanted the Ganesha Bhajan and was made to repeat it couple of times. Also, explained the meaning of Ganesha bhajan again.

3. Then we introduced the Krishna bhajan with meaning and made the kids repeat it word by word. And chanted it couple of times.

6. Kids were then introduced to the next letter 'G' - it stands for God. God loves us and protects us and is everywhere. God gives us everything we need and we should thank him for all these gifts and pray to God. Our Saints know him and see him as they have sweet mind. And when we have a sweet mind we can see and feel the presence of God. 

7. In the Brainstorming session, we discussed about who is God and what does God do? God is everywhere and God gives us lot of gifts, like Sunshine, rain, snow, air, flowers, birds, animals, fruits, food, clothes, the whole universe and God gives us everything. God can do what no one can do and makes impossible things possible. Kids shared the various things God gives us .

8. During Exploration time, we discussed that for all the gifts God gives us, we should thank him and kids were taught the Bhajan -

 "Krishna here, Krishna there, Krishna Krishna everywhere, God is one, God is one, God is for everyone. "

And told kids to repeat this using their favorite God's name and that we can express our gratefulness and gratitude to God by 

'praying'.

9. And then we discussed about the various ways to pray to God :  by chanting slokhas, singing bhajans, reciting God's name, doing abhishekam, meditation etc. And then we discussed what abhishekam is and how to do it. We shared a small YouTube -Ganesha abhishekam video performed at home showing all the various steps involved. 

10. Then we did the Alphabet chant together covering all the letters we learnt so far.

11. For Yoga time, we did Tree pose, Jumping jacks, Lion pose and stretching exercise. 

12. After this we recited the poem 'All things Bright and Beautiful' by Cecil Francis Alexander which talks about all the beautiful gifts given by God to all of us.

13. Then we discussed that 'Dhyana -meditation' is one more form of praying to God and we did the Body scan yoga and mediated on our favorite God for few mins.  

14. Attendance was taken and each kid responded by saying HariOm when their name was called 

15. Lastly, we said the closing prayers and concluded the session.

 Another exciting interactive session with our wonderful kids. And thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids and making them actively respond to our questions and helping with the bhajans.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Nov 14, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the seventh class of Balavihar 2021-2022!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session :

1. We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Opening prayers Sahana vavatu led by two kids.

2. Then we made each kid chant the Opening prayers individually to help them learn.

3. Most of the kids shared how they celebrated Deepavali festival.

4. Then we practiced Ganesh Bhajan, and made each kid chant couple of times to encourage them to learn it.

5. One kid on her own shared that today in India Children's Day is celebrated and its connection with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru ji and his love for children.

 All kids listened keenly and we encouraged kids to share similar good information which we all can learn from.

 

6. For Yoga time, we did the Lion pose, tree pose and butterfly pose, and while doing the butterfly pose we flew to Mexico(as one kid expressed it) 

and kids shared the various Mexican dishes they like.

7. Then we sang the Alphabet chant singing it until the Letter E and kids happily joined in by learning it.

8.After this, we introduced the next letter F - Friendship- is a feeling of mutual affection and respect. And we need to care and share with our friends.

9. For Brainstorming, we discussed couple of scenarios which show how to start and maintain good friendships, also understand how not to behave 

which can hurt our friends and lose their friendship, Kids shared their views and got the essence of how a good friend needs to be.

10. For Story time, through the story of Krishna's Best Friend - Krishna and Sudama story, we learnt what true friendship is, 

how we need to respect and care for our friend, and how we need to help our friends when they truly need something or are in trouble 

without them specifically asking for our help. And that it does not matter how big or small you are to be good friend. 'A true friend helps without even being asked'.

11. After this, we said closing prayers and closed the session. Attendance was taken as each kid was exiting the session.

 Today, we had an exciting session, kids actively participated by sharing their thoughts and by chanting bhajans. Thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids.

 Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalakshmi

Oct 31, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the sixth class of Balavihar 2021-2022!! Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session :

1. We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu.

 All the kids were looking lovely in Blue attire, representing Krishna's cowboys.

2. Kids were taught that letter 'E' is for Enthusiasm -is to experience joy and excitement while striving for a goal.

3.In the Brainstorming session, we discussed by various examples of situations when they feel excited and joyful. Kids happily shared and 

participated by providing answers and actively discussed and learnt the meaning of Enthusiasm. 

Kids learnt the alphabet chant 'Go Go, Go and Fly' and chanted it couple of times.

Go, go, go, and fly,

Soar, soar in the sky,

Work, work hard and try,

You'll make it, just don't cry.

4. After this for Story time, through the story of the little chipmunk 'Gitu's place', kids learnt that it does not matter how small we are, 

when we do work with enthusiasm and hardwork, we can accomplish anything no matter what physical impediments we may have.

5. Through the story of 'the Starfish and the Boy', we learnt that small actions can make a difference, and we need to work hard 

and enthusiasm is key to everything. And every small step counts even if the task is huge and can make a difference.

6. After this, Attendance was taken by each kid saying Hari Om when their name was called out.

7. Then as it was House Inaugural day today, Kids were asked to do a house activity, to identify important places and cities in India Map and 

connect them. Kids participated with their parents and were excited to identify the places. And later shared the place where they are from in India.

8. Kids were then asked to color the E Coloring sheet. Due to lack of time today, the interview with Dad questionnaire will be discussed in the next class.

9. Then we all joined the main session to watch the older kid's presentations.

 Today, we had full attendance and an exciting session with kids actively participated by sharing their thoughts. Thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids.

Wishing everyone A Very Happy and Prosperous Deepavali !!  Have a wonderful week ahead!!

Pranams

Selvi and Mahalaxmi

Oct 24, 2021 - Kindergarten (Sunday AM)

Hari Om Parents!

Today was the sixth class of Balavihar!!Here is the summary of what we covered in class today:

After everyone joined the Zoom session, 

1. We started the class with Opening prayers by chanting Om three times and then we all together chanted Sahana vavatu.

2. Kids were taught that Letter C is for Cleanliness and then we had a Brainstorming session where kids were shown different pictures to learn about Cleanliness and three types Cleanliness of body, surroundings and mind. Pictures were shown showing good and bad actions. And our actions come from our thoughts which in turn show a clean mind. And that Cleanliness is equal to Godliness. And by having clean mind within is the only way to get closer to God and to have inner happiness and joy.

3. During story time, kids were taught through a wonderful story of the Royal horse, that we should always keep our body, surroundings and mind clean.

4. Then kids were asked how to be clean inside ? And were taught that we should be like Gandhiji's  three monkeys - See no bad, Hear no bad and Talk no bad. And kids were then asked to color the 3 monkeys Coloring sheet, while we played Ganesh bhajan in the background.

Some kids completed and shared the pictures, rest were asked to complete it and show it in next session. 

5.Then for Yoga time -we did Jumping Jacks, Tree pose, and Lion pose.

6. Then kids were taught Letter 'D' is for Daddy and Dad's are "kind," "loving," "caring," "wise," "protective," "strong," and have similar qualities as God, hence we revere them as God.

7.For Brainstorming session kids told the various things their Dad's do for them which shows their love and care. And that the Almighty God is our Eternal father and takes care of all of us. And kids were asked to say to their dad - 'Pitru Devo Bhava'  and explained that 'Pitru' in this context refers to their 'Daddy'.

9. After this we had Story time, kids learnt about how Father's Day started and why its celebrated and learnt that the best way to celebrate is by listening to Dad and doing what Dad likes. 

10.Kids shared about details about their Dad and ways they show their love and care. And also, they shared how their Dad's spent time with them.  

11. Kids were then asked to color the D Coloring sheet. Some kids completed and shared the pictures, rest were asked to complete it and show it in the next session. 

12. Lastly we said the closing prayers and concluded the session. Kids will be given a set of questions to quiz their Dad and we will discuss the answers in our next class. 

Thank you parents for sitting through the session to help the kids.

Have a wonderful week ahead!!