Inspiration and Joy: Sunbeam Lahartara

My Good School.pptx by Manisha Khanna

Students of Sunbeam School enthusiastically share their views about Sunday School, expressing their love and enjoyment of it. For them, Sunday School is not just a place of learning but also a source of joy, values, and inspiration. They eagerly look forward to it every week, as it helps them grow in knowledge, confidence, and character, while creating beautiful memories with their friends and teachers

Puberty and Perspective: Learning, Questioning, and Growing with Confidence - Nikunj Gupta

Today's session really helped me make sense of the changes I’m going through—both in my body and emotions—as I experience puberty. I learned that it’s all a normal part of growing up, mostly driven by hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

I also found it fascinating how our culture can shape the way we respond to things, even something as simple as food. One part that stood out to me was the example about deworming horses—it showed how the same word can mean completely different things depending on the context.

Overall, I feel more comfortable now discussing these topics and know it’s okay to ask questions or seek help when I need it.

Nikunj Gupta

Class VII

Sunbeam Suncity School

Understanding Puberty: Navigating Change with Awareness and Empathy - Vishakha Singh

Good morning & Jai Hind,

Today's session was really very important, especially for our students. It discussed the changes that occur during puberty and their longer-term impact.

Sharing my opinion & reflection related to today's session:

The session on puberty and the changes that occur during it was both informative and eye-opening. It provided a safe space to learn and discuss the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during this crucial stage of development. Understanding these changes helps reduce confusion and fear, especially as many young people experience them for the first time.

One key takeaway was learning how puberty can affect friendships. As we grow and change, our interests, moods, and the way we relate to others can shift. Sometimes, friends might grow apart or misunderstand each other due to emotional ups and downs or different paces of development. However, learning about these changes can help us become more patient and understanding with our friends, strengthening those relationships instead of losing them.

The session also helped highlight the importance of emotions during puberty. Emotions can become stronger or more unpredictable due to hormonal changes. Learning to recognize and manage emotions, especially through open communication and self-care, is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. It was helpful to know that feeling overwhelmed or confused at times is completely normal.

I also explored the meaning of happy emotions, such as joy, excitement, and contentment. These emotions are important because they help us build positive relationships, motivate us to achieve goals, and give us a sense of purpose and connection. Understanding that it’s okay to experience a range of emotions, including happy and difficult ones, can make this stage of life easier to handle.

Overall, the session was valuable in helping us understand ourselves and each other better during puberty. It reminded us that we are not alone in our experiences and that emotional and social support are essential during this time of growth.

Thank you.

Regards,

Vishakha Singh

Educator

Sunbeam School Ballia

Puberty and Growing Up: Understanding Changes with Confidence and Care - Sunbeam School Ballia

Today's session was really informative.

The resource person, Ms. Shikha Agnihotri, began by explaining what puberty is – a stage of physical and emotional development where children transition into adulthood. Students were told about the emotional ups and downs they may face, such as mood swings, increased sensitivity, self-consciousness, and anxiety.

The session also covered how puberty affects behaviour. Children may start seeking more independence, feel peer pressure, or become more private and less communicative with parents or teachers. The facilitator encouraged open communication and reassured students that it’s okay to ask questions or feel confused during this stage.

Most importantly, the session focused on creating a safe and respectful environment where students could express their doubts and emotions freely. It emphasized that growing up is a journey, and with the right guidance and support, it can be a smooth and confident one.

Regards,

Pooja Pandey

Educator

Sunbeam School Ballia

Today's session on "Puberty and Its Impact on Emotions and Behaviour" was both engaging and informative.

The speaker beautifully explained that puberty is a natural phase of life during which children experience significant changes in their bodies, minds, and emotions. Due to hormonal shifts, they may sometimes feel angry, sad, confused, or shy without any clear reason. The session helped us understand that these changes are a normal part of growing up, and with proper guidance and support, this transition can be managed smoothly and positively.

Thank you,

Anurag Tripathi

Educator

Sunbeam School Ballia

My Good School, Sunday 29th June 2025

YES Workshop with Shikha Agnihotri of Right Side Story

Discussion on puberty, growing up, and adolescence with high school students, led by Shikha Agnihotri from Right Side Story.

Key Takeaways

• Puberty involves both physical and emotional changes that are beyond one's control; understanding these changes helps normalise the experience ("puberty is not a race")

• Students shared insights on mood swings, emotional changes, and physical transformations during puberty, demonstrating awareness but also misconceptions

• The session emphasised communication as a crucial strategy for managing challenging emotions and relationships during adolescence

• Gender differences during puberty were discussed, including societal expectations and biological variations, with an emphasis on respect for all genders

Topics

Understanding Puberty and Growth

• Puberty is defined as a "software update" in the mind and body, signalling the transition from childhood.

• Students recognised that puberty is influenced by genetics and occurs at different ages for different people.

• Physical changes discussed included body odour, voice changes such as the Adam's apple in boys, and muscle development.

• Brain "rewiring" during puberty leads to feelings of independence and new emotional experiences.

• Girls and boys experience different physical changes, but both face hormonal shifts (testosterone vs. estrogen)

Emotional Changes During Puberty

• Students identified negative emotions experienced: anxiety, jealousy, frustration, irritation, depression.

• Positive emotions noted: happiness from recognition, validation, success, and achievement.

• Discussion of mood swings affecting both genders, not just girls, as commonly believed

• Students expressed challenges with controlling emotions during puberty

• Shikha emphasised that emotions during puberty are often temporary but intense, requiring patience

Friendship and Relationships During Adolescence

• Students debated whether friendship affects puberty or puberty affects friendship

• Trust issues in friendships were highlighted as a challenge during puberty

• Advice given: when hurt by friends, communicate within 24 hours rather than avoiding the issue

• Self-inflicted independence during puberty can strain relationships with parents and authority figures

• Importance of finding trusted adults to discuss difficult decisions emphasised

Self-Image and Body Awareness

• Students noted increased focus on appearance during puberty (clothes, hygiene, physical features)

• Discussion about boys becoming more conscious about their physical appearance (muscles, height)

• Girls discussed increased attention to skincare, makeup, and fashion choices

• The importance of hygiene is emphasised, especially regarding body odour, which increases during puberty

• Both genders experience increased self-consciousness and concern about how others perceive them

Reading Session: Animal Behaviour and Taste with Brinda Ghosh

• The second half of the meeting featured a reading from "The Inner Life of Animals" focusing on taste in animals

• Discussed how animals have different taste preferences than humans (example: crows eating seeds from horse excrement)

• Explored how taste is adapted to different species' needs and evolutionary history

• Reading skills were emphasised, including proper use of punctuation and expression while reading

• Importance of regular reading beyond textbooks (15-20 minutes daily) was encouraged

Next Steps

• Shikha proposed separate follow-up sessions for boys and girls to discuss puberty more openly

• Future session on pronunciation and reading skills to be conducted by Brinda

• After completing the current book, the group will read Gerald Durrell's works about animals

• Students are encouraged to practice communication skills when dealing with emotional challenges

• Students advised to develop reading habits beyond textbooks (15-20 minutes daily)

Looking Back: Reflecting on the Journey - Sunbeam School Lahartara

At  Sunbeam School, Lahartara, we believe that  true learning begins when students pause to reflect. Reflection transforms experiences into insight, moments into meaning, and interactions into personal growth. Our recent  Meet and Greet session with Mr. Kartik Bajoria—a celebrated  coach and mentor—was not just an event; it was a mirror held up to every student’s thoughts, expressions, and aspirations. His words didn’t merely inform—they inspired, provoked questions, and awakened self-awareness. After the session, students took time to write, discuss, and share their reflections. This deliberate act of looking inward helped them:  Recognise how communication shapes confidence.  Acknowledge their own strengths and fears.  Connect what they heard to who they are becoming. Each reflection was a beam of light—unique, honest, and glowing with possibility. At Sunbeam, we don’t just teach students what to think; we nurture how they think. And through reflection, they grow not just smarter—but wiser, kinder, and more self-aware. 

My Good School, Sunday 23rd February 2025

 Sunday School # 177

A workshop on goal setting with guest speaker Lina Ashar, followed by a book reading session and updates on My Good School activities. 

Key Takeaways

• Lina Ashar presented on the importance of SMART goal setting and how to apply it effectively
• The group read chapters from "The Hidden Life of Animals" on animal intelligence and goal-oriented behavior
• Updates were shared on upcoming My Good School events, including a retreat in April and new weekday sessions

Session 1 of 3, scheduled for the third Sunday of the month, beginging February 2025.

Lina Ashar, founder of Dreamtime Learning, discussed the importance of goal setting using the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, Time-bound) framework. She emphasized the need for clear, realistic goals to achieve personal and academic success. Lina Ashar highlighted the reticular activating system (RAS) in the brain, which helps focus on specific goals. She also addressed common challenges like procrastination and stress, suggesting time-blocking and realistic goal setting. The session included practical exercises to transform vague goals into SMART ones and stressed the importance of inner mastery and personal growth. 

What we learnt with Lina Ashar

• Explained the SMART goal framework: Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, Time-bound
• Discussed the brain's reticular activating system (RAS) and its role in goal achievement
• Emphasized the importance of setting realistic, incremental goals to avoid stress
• Addressed questions on procrastination, parental pressure, and maintaining motivation

Book Reading: "The Hidden Life of Animals"

Chapters: Hidden Agendas & Simple Sums:

• Read chapters on animal intelligence, focusing on crows, goats, and dogs
• Discussed examples of animals demonstrating counting abilities and time awareness
• Explored the concept of forward planning in animal behavior

Reflection questions

1. How does Wohlleben challenge the traditional understanding of animal intelligence in this chapter? Reflect on examples he provides and consider whether they change your perspective on how animals think and solve problems.

2. In what ways does the ability of animals to perform simple mathematical tasks impact our ethical responsibilities toward them? Do you think recognizing intelligence in animals should influence the way humans treat them?

3. Wohlleben shares anecdotes about animals demonstrating basic arithmetic skills. How do these examples compare to the way young children or untrained humans approach similar tasks? What does this suggest about the cognitive abilities of animals in comparison to humans?

Planning for March 2025

The meeting discussed the upcoming schedule for various educational activities. Students will return from holidays on April 1st, and attendance is expected to improve. The calendar will include reading sessions on Sundays, watching the Episode 14 of Guru Nanak’s travels with Amardeep Singh and a workshop with Lina Ashar. The students of Sunbeam School Varuna are planning a presentation at My Good School. In addition, a poetry sessions are held on Thursdays at 5:15 PM, and a book reading sessions on Friday afternoon at 2:20 PM. 

The My Good School retreat is scheduled from April 11th to 14th. Art and music sessions are under consideration for the week, with a focus on engaging a broader audience. Finally, plans for the Art and Music Sessions on Monday and Tuesday respectively, with Wednesday as a weekly off.

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in or post them as comments below!

My Good School, Sunday 19th January 2025

Session No. 172

Mr Raghu Pandey,  the founder of iMature.in, led an insightful session focused on preparing students for the future in the context of AI readiness, internet maturity, and digital citizenship. 

Key Points from Mr. Raghu's Session:

1. AI Readiness & Future Careers:
   Mr. Raghu discussed how AI will disrupt traditional career paths and job structures. He explained the importance of students developing essential skills to thrive in an AI-powered world, including:

   • Continuous online learning is needed to stay adaptable and acquire new skills.
   • Online Reputation Management to effectively showcase their abilities and secure opportunities.
   • Mastering the "4 C's"—Critical thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration—is key to success in human-centred roles, even as AI evolves.

2. Online Safety and Internet Maturity (FAST CAR Method):
   Mr Raghu stressed the importance of students practising internet maturity and adhering to online safety practices. The FAST CAR method for online safety was highlighted:

   • Firewall, Antivirus, Strong Passwords: Basic tools for securing devices and personal information.
   • Trust with Caution, Confidence, Avoidance, and Reporting: Guidelines for online interactions while avoiding cyberbullying and antisocial behaviour.
   • Never Share Physical Location Online: Encouraging students to protect their privacy.
   • Be Cautious of AI-generated content: Always verify the credibility and source of information found online, as AI-generated content can sometimes be misleading.

3. Digital Citizenship Skills:
   Mr. Raghu emphasized the importance of developing digital citizenship skills, including responsible, ethical, and safe use of technology. He discussed how these skills are essential for navigating the digital world and balancing emotional and moral growth in an AI-driven society.

In conclusion, Mr Raghu's insights provided a clear roadmap for ensuring students are ready for the future and well-prepared to responsibly navigate digital citizenship's challenges.

Book Reading

Chapter 14, "Misal Pao," from My Name is Cinnamon by Vikas Joshi

What skills does Cinnamon demonstrate while interacting with others in the chapter, and how do these skills help him navigate his relationships?

This question encourages us to reflect on Cinnamon's communication, empathy, and adaptability as he interacts with those around him.

How do the characters in this chapter use practical skills to express themselves or contribute to their family and community?

This question explores how specific skills, such as cooking, can represent personal expression and connect individuals to their culture or traditions.

In what ways does the chapter illustrate the difference between academic skills and life skills, and why might both be important for personal growth?

This question considers the value of academic achievements and life skills (such as social interaction, resilience, and emotional intelligence) and reflects on their balance.

How does Cinnamon’s perspective on the value of skills evolve throughout this chapter, and what does this reveal about his character development?

This question invites us to reflect on Cinnamon’s growth and how he came to understand the importance of various skills—both practical and personal—on his journey toward self-discovery.

Reflections Sunday the 6th October 2024

 - From My Guide Inside-

1. We can make healthy decisions and make and keep healthy friendships. Create and submit a reflection!
2. What were the words discussed today, and how do they reverberate with you?
3. The Best Ship is Friendship- Comment.
4. In the replay of the Signal Story, what did Rohan remember that made everything different?
5. What steps have you made to establish positive relationships with your friends, family, and/or relatives?
6. Write a story of your own by using the Power Words.
belonging—be a part of
healthy—good
insecure—unsure
realize—see, understand
signal—sign

Note: MGI Online is a school well-being curriculum that aligns with our work at My Good School and helps us focus on life skills.

- From My Name Is Cinnamon-
1. What was your takeaway from today's session?
2. Have you ever been to Kolkata? Share your experience.
3. Does communication change depending on how something is said? How?
4. Why do people snore?
5. What could be the side effects after you raid the kitchen late at night?
6. Post a photo of the regional art form and discuss it.

These are some suggestions you can choose from. We are looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in.

My Good School 06-10-2024 

VIEW RECORDING - 204 mins (No highlights)

Highlight

To discuss social-emotional learning concepts and read a chapter from "My Name is Cinnamon", followed by updates on the upcoming My Good School retreat.

Key Takeaways

• Christa Campsall presented on managing emotions and building healthy friendships using Hawaiian concepts like "huli the bowl" and riding emotional waves
• The group read Chapter 5 of "My Name is Cinnamon" and discussed themes of family dynamics and cultural differences.
• Plans were shared for the upcoming My Good School retreat, which will focus on service, skills, sports, and study from November 13 to 16.

Topics

Social-Emotional Learning Presentation

• Christa Campsall presented on managing emotions and building healthy friendships
• Key concepts:
  • "Hula the bowl" - emptying unhelpful thoughts
  • Riding emotional waves - letting negative thoughts pass
  • Pausing when angry to let mind clear before acting
• Emphasized realizing innate wisdom/intuition vs. developing new skills
• Used the story of two boys with a pencil to illustrate different emotional responses

"My Name is Cinnamon" Chapter 5 Discussion

• Read Chapter 5 about Cinnamon's family trip to Kolkata
• Discussed:
  • Cultural differences between Maharashtra and West Bengal (food, language)
  • Family dynamics and storytelling
  • Cinnamon sneaking sweets at night and getting caught
• Highlighted positive family atmosphere of open communication

My Good School Retreat Planning

• Dates: November 13-16
• Location: Khan Farm, Dehradun
• Key activities:
  • Service project with Artha Food Academy
  • Skill-building sessions
  • Forest walk and reading reflections
  • Dehradun city tour and Doon School visit
• Emphasized unique learning experience beyond a typical school picnic

Next Steps

• Students to reflect on learnings from today's session and write about them
• Manisha to reach out to teachers/schools to provide more details on the retreat
• Participants are encouraged to register for the retreat
• Continue weekly Sunday sessions and prepare for the upcoming Dussehra holiday

Action Items

• Call teachers from each school about retreat. Brief on differences from a picnic, full school curriculum in 4 days. Discuss web pages, answer questions, and explain travel logistics. - WATCH (30 secs)
• Post reflections and questions from today's meeting - WATCH (20 secs)

The Jai Hind Project - Vineet KKN 'Panchi'

Streaming Worldwide

The Interns of My Good School produce podcasts with élan. Listen to heartwarming stories about schools, schooling and their passion for education. Check out the Learning Forward Podcast on Spotify, Apple, Google, or your favourite podcast application.

In Season 13, Episode 5 of Learning Forward, Vineet KKN 'Panchhi' converses with Anvesha Rana and Saikiran Sahu, leaving a lasting impression on listeners with his unconventional introduction. While most guests are introduced by their educational qualifications, Vineet urged audiences to focus on his passions instead. From cars and bikes to travel and communication, music, outdoor films, voice acting, writing, leadership coaching, and Urdu poetry, Vineet is a dynamic individual with diverse interests. He describes himself as a "rolling stone" and has pursued his passions relentlessly. From being a teenage musician in a band to a filmmaker, communication expert, and Urdu poet, Vineet has done it all. He is also the founder of The Jai Hind Project and Word of Mouth Media. By showcasing his unique perspective, Vineet's approach inspires viewers to embrace and pursue their passions with the same dedication and commitment.

Why Does My Voice Matter? - Shambhavi Nautiyal

Picture Courtesy: https://www.yourdictionary.com/articles/voice-descriptions

My voice matters because 'I matter'. 

I want my voice to matter to all. My voice is purely the interpretation of my thoughts. And it resonates with my soul's reflection on what my body and my mind are going through. It fabricates all of my emotions, opinions, beliefs and desires. It unfolds one by one like the onion peels layer by layer, taking physical form, and I turn my thoughts into reality. 

My voice raises my apprehensions. And sometimes, it unravels my reality. It often unleashes the truth of my core. It lets me stand tall with my head held high.

My voice has been raised on innumerable instances - whenever my existence was questioned; whenever my presence was neglected; whenever my efforts were made meaningless; whenever my credibility was shaken. 

It is not that I raise my voice only if I am overlooked. I am also vocal when it comes to my loved ones' well-being. I also voice it whenever it is a matter of my faith. When it comes to my nation, I never lose the opportunity to take a stand and vote my opinion. That is my karma.

So, it matters how I use my voice.

Do I use my voice to manipulate others?

Or Do I use it to spread negativity and cuss at them, or do I use my voice to show gratitude, express love and use words of kindness and comfort for others?

That is what matters. 

No matter what you say or how you use your voice, it does make a difference. 

If you choose to be flippant and hurtful, it shall harm the people around you for the time being, but ultimately it shall come back to you since then, no one shall want to be friends with you and will start eviting you. Thus, your voice will eventually lose all its meaning, and at last, it will not matter anymore.

However, if you use your voice otherwise, then it shall be reciprocated with pleasure, and you will receive more happiness since now you have learned how to appreciate the things that you have.
When you learn to love yourself, you will start feeling confident. And also deflect people with remorse in their voices. In return for all the good that we do, we receive good, too. 

We should learn to trust that our voices matter because then we can present ourselves and our ideas in the most captivatingly confident manner.

As citizens of this world, we should keep exploring ourselves and honing our skills. We avoid questioning each of our beliefs. We work and focus on embarking on and strengthening the flourishing ones and eliminating the detrimental and deteriorating ones. 

Voicing our thoughts in an upright manner brings a difference in our life. It sharpens the outlook of a wider diaspora commendably. That is how the changes brought in mundane tasks and procedures. That is how the laws are made. That is how the amendments are brought into reality, bringing brimming smiles to the downtrodden section of society. 

Each voice does matter as it facilitates the formation of a powerful road map and vital development of one's nation and ensures accomplishment. Let us have some faith in our worth and keep believing that we all are worthy by simply existing and being ourselves. 

In the end, I would conclude with a famous quote from Steve Jobs that says - 

Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.

That is all which matters. As human beings, our voices deserve a hearing. Since we are always looking forward to improved facilities and lifestyles for humans living on this planet, and in this process, we can only achieve the best with communication and collaboration whilst having mutual respect.

Shambhavi Nautiyal
Class- 9 || Ahlcon Public School

Why is it necessary to ask questions? - Nishan Karki

 Why is it necessary to ask questions?

Every person in the world has questions ranging in their minds. Questions indicate desire and curiosity to know something by asking others. People may ask questions to several people like parents, teachers, relatives, friends, brothers, sisters and many more people. Every time different questions come into people's minds.

There are several reasons for the necessity of asking questions. We ask questions to get information about different things. Asking questions helps us to develop our thinking skills, communication skills, social skills, etc. It also increases our general knowledge or knowledge about different things. Thus it is necessary and essential to ask questions. 

Nishan Karki
Pestalozzi Children's Village India