Curiosity, Habits, and Learning: Reflections from the Good School Session - Sunbeam School Ballia

In today’s reading session with Brinda Ma’am, we read the chapter “A Treasure of Spiders” from My Family and Other Animals. The chapter beautifully shows how curiosity and close observation of nature can turn even small discoveries into exciting learning experiences. Listening to the discussion made me appreciate how passion and patience can help us understand the world around us more deeply.

Along with the reading, Maira shared her review of the book Atomic Habits. Her explanation about how small habits can lead to big changes really caught my attention and motivated me to read the book myself. It made me realise that improving ourselves does not always require big actions; even small and consistent efforts can make a difference. Further, Jugjiv Sir spoke about the importance of physical movement and the development of good daily habits. His words reminded me that discipline, healthy routines, and staying active are essential for both our mind and body.

Overall, today’s session was not just about reading a chapter, but about learning how curiosity, habits, and physical well-being together shape a better lifestyle and a stronger personality.
Akanksha Rai

Today I attended the Good School session. First, Brinda Ma’am had a brief discussion about superstitions, during which many students shared various superstitions they had heard about. After that, the session with Manisha Ma’am began. It started with Maira’s book review of Atomic Habits. I have already read this book, and I think it is amazing.

Then Manisha Ma’am conducted a short quiz based on reading reflections. After that, she told a very interesting story about a school surrounded by a deep forest. The story was very engaging and enjoyable.

Overall, the session was amazing and very interesting.
Ishika Singh

Learning Through Curiosity and Reflection - PYDS Learning Academy

 

MGS Reflection 

Students participated in an engaging Good School session that combined reading, discussion, and reflection. The session encouraged students to observe nature closely and understand how curiosity and patience can turn small discoveries into meaningful learning experiences. Students also shared different superstitions they had heard, which made the discussion lively and interactive. The session also included a thoughtful book review highlighting how small, consistent habits can lead to positive changes in life. A short quiz and an interesting story added to the excitement and kept everyone actively involved. Overall, the session inspired students to value curiosity, develop good habits, and maintain a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.

Young Readers Discover the Joy and Value of Books - Lotus Petal Senior Secondary School

Today’s session was very interesting and informative with Brinda Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir. Brinda Ma’am read a story from “My Family and Other Animals” and explained the character and his interests. Jugjiv Sir read from “What You Are Looking for in the Library” and asked us questions about books and reading habits. We discussed why libraries are important and how books help us learn new things. I liked answering the questions and sharing my thoughts. I learned that reading helps us think more critically and generate new ideas. The session was enjoyable and meaningful.
Disha, Class 5A

Today’s session was very enjoyable with Brinda Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir. We listened to stories from “My Family and Other Animals” and “What You Are Looking for in the Library.” The teachers asked us questions and encouraged us to think about what we enjoy reading. We discussed how libraries help us find books and learn new information. I learned that reading can improve our knowledge and imagination. The session was very helpful and inspiring.
Adarsh Kumar, Class 5B

Today’s session was very interesting and knowledgeable. Brinda Ma’am read a story from “My Family and Other Animals,” and Jugjiv Sir read from “What You Are Looking for in the Library.” We talked about the main ideas of the stories and why reading is important. The teachers asked questions and encouraged us to share our answers. I learned that reading books helps us become smarter and more confident. The session was engaging and meaningful for me.
Vansh, Class 5C

Today’s session was very interesting. Brinda Ma’am read a chapter from “My Family and Other Animals.” George was the main character, and he was interested in History and Geography. Jugjiv Sir read from “What You Are Looking for in the Library,” and we discussed how books help us learn new things. The teachers asked questions, and we shared our opinions. I learned that reading helps us understand the world better. The session was very meaningful.
Akrit Tiwari, Class 5C

Today’s session was very interesting with Brinda Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir. We listened to stories from “My Family and Other Animals” and “What You Are Looking for in the Library.” We discussed why libraries are important and how books help us learn. The teachers encouraged us to think and share our ideas. I learned new things about reading and learning. The session was interesting and meaningful.
Saba, Class 5C

Today’s session was joyful and interesting with Brinda Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir. We listened to stories from “My Family and Other Animals” and “What You Are Looking for in the Library.” The teachers explained how reading helps our brain and improves our knowledge. We answered questions and shared what we like to read. I learned that reading reduces stress and makes us smarter. The session was meaningful and enjoyable.
Aysha, Class 5C 

Exploring Learning, Family, and Personal Passions through Literature - Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Today, we read the chapter “A Bushel of Learning” from My Family and Other Animals. Durrell presents education as an unconventional yet enriching journey shaped by family dynamics and personal curiosity. Unlike rigid classroom instruction, Gerald’s learning takes place in the vibrant setting of Corfu, where nature becomes his primary teacher. His tutor, George, nurtures his interests rather than suppressing them, encouraging observation and independent thought. This flexible approach highlights that true education goes beyond textbooks and examinations. The family environment plays an equally significant role. Each member of the Durrell family is eccentric yet supportive, creating a lively atmosphere that fosters imagination and self-expression. Instead of strict discipline, there is freedom, humour, and acceptance. Through humorous incidents and affectionate portrayals, Durrell shows that learning flourishes in an environment of love and encouragement. Ultimately, the chapter suggests that education is most meaningful when it nurtures individuality, curiosity, and emotional growth.
Lavanya Jaiswal, VIII F

In “A Bushel of Learning” from My Family and Other Animals, Gerald Durrell vividly portrays the lively and unconventional dynamics of his family. The Durrell household in Corfu is far from ordinary; it is filled with eccentric personalities, spontaneous decisions, and constant humour. Despite their differences and frequent disagreements, there is a deep sense of affection and mutual support that binds them together. The family does not impose rigid rules or expectations on young Gerald. Instead, they allow him the freedom to explore nature and pursue his passions. Their acceptance of his unusual hobbies, including collecting animals, reflects their open-mindedness. I personally think open-mindedness from parents is very important nowadays. Our generation is exposed to so much transformation every day. We are influenced and need to be understood, rather than being considered rebellious or different.
Gauri Agrawal, VIII F

In the second chapter of "What You Are Looking For Is in the Library," Michiko Aoyama beautifully explores the quiet yet powerful passion for antiques. The protagonist’s fascination with old objects reflects a deeper longing to connect with history and forgotten stories. Antiques are not merely decorative items; they carry memories, craftsmanship, and the spirit of another era. Through the guidance received in the library, the protagonist begins to understand that this interest is meaningful and worth pursuing. The chapter suggests that passions, even if they seem unusual or impractical, can offer direction and fulfilment. By valuing antiques, the character learns patience, appreciation for detail, and respect for the past. Ultimately, the story shows that recognising one’s true passion can open new paths of purpose and self-discovery.
Ezra Minsen Mathew, VII G

Today, we read two chapters—one was “A Bushel of Learning,” and the second was a chapter from What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama. Both chapters were nice and engaging, but what caught my interest was the protagonist’s struggle with human relations at work, which reflects a deeper sense of insecurity and isolation in the second chapter. I couldn't initially relate, but I eventually understood the situation by comparing it to certain situations in school among peers. In the chapter, Ryo’s workplace interactions often feel formal, competitive, or emotionally distant. The protagonist finds it difficult to express personal aspirations openly, fearing judgment or misunderstanding from colleagues. This creates a gap between inner desires and outward behaviour.
Arjun Gaur, VII F

A peek into the inner landscapes

"What is life when you are walking in the garden?" is what a teacher from Sunbeam School, Balia, and I were talking about in our recent Wisdom Mandli session on Saturday, when she used the word 'sukoon' in her response. When some cards kept appearing and disappearing on the screen, with questions that are felt but mostly not asked of each other in everyday conversation, I was asking myself: What interests me in the world now? What am I curious to find out- the chaos, the harmony and the functioning of everything around me. 

Sometimes, there is an assumption that learning sessions are online, and they seem slightly disorienting until you attend them with the intention of meeting and hearing the voices of educators and people sharing their conundrums in life and school. Take what speaks to you, and don't beat yourself up for everything that's beyond your head. 

Wisdom Mandli was a session that opened my curiosity about the mundane around me! I was aware of what I feel in the kitchen, in the garden, or under the stars (they are hardly visible now), but can I speak about just that to a fellow teacher? We live in different realities, but these are such universal feelings and experiences. We were just coming to a point in the discussion where we were brainstorming how we could bring wisdom to our children and still be able to teach our curriculum when it struck me- Isn't talking about it already a large part of why we would want our children to learn in the first place? We are surrounded by ecology and nature all the time, but we sometimes just bypass it and do not pause to wonder. These sessions with Wisdom Mandli by project Fuel are my gateway for this month to something larger than me, me, me. I'd like my students to tell me how they feel when they walk barefoot on the ground. I am curious about their observations. It is a peek into their inner landscapes, and these questions seem like a torch to go with. 

Neelashi Mangal is the Head of Training and Development at the Learning Forward India Foundation. You may wish to email her at NM@LearningForward.org.in

Sunday Reflections of Young Readers - Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Reflection_Lotus Petals Foundation

The Sunday reading session filled the students with joy, curiosity, and a sense of discovery. As they listened to stories come alive, they felt the excitement of new words, new ideas, and new worlds opening before them. Many shared how reading aloud helped them speak with confidence, imagine more deeply, and understand emotions better. The session reminded them that every story brings its own surprise — a moment of learning, a spark of inspiration, and the happiness of reading together as a community.

Lotus Petal Foundation

DRIVE: The Force Behind Success - Manisha Khanna

“From First Steps to Full Circle: A Journey Rooted in DRIVE”

It began with a question: What truly makes a school good?

I didn’t have the answer then, but I had curiosity. And sometimes, that’s enough to begin.

Neetu Koranga, my mentor, didn’t hand me the answer—she offered scaffolding. Gentle nudges, reflective pauses, and space to explore helped me see that a good school isn’t defined by buildings or rankings, but by its soul—its people, its purpose, and its practices. She let me climb at my own pace, not rushing the learning, just guiding it. That’s where I found my first ‘D’—Direction.

Then came the voice behind the movement— Sandeep Dutt. A mentor, not in instruction but in inspiration. He didn’t just show the way; he walked with me. From helping shape my first student post to allowing me the space to correct, create, and eventually lead, he helped me tap into my second ‘D’—Dream.

The rest followed like ingredients into a simmering pot:

From designing graphics, writing reflections, to conducting a session in Hindi for students on a Sunday—it wasn't just learning, it was living the learning. Each effort, every retry, every Sunday spent refining my thoughts taught me the value of Dedication.

And when I stumbled, as learners often do, it was the fire within—the silent push to continue—that revealed my own Determination.

Together, these four pillars became my foundation. And like any good recipe, it wasn’t just one spice but the perfect blend that brought flavour to my journey.

“When You Dare to Dream, Direction Finds You—And Drive Takes You Further.”

To everyone who walked beside me in this journey, thank you for the patience, the belief, and the freedom to grow without limits. My Good School didn’t just change how I see education—it changed how I see myself.

Chasing questions, catching sparks — Manisha Khanna

A Reflection on Growth and Curiosity - Aayush Kumar Singh

 Good morning and Jai Hind dear readers,

I am Aayush Kumar Singh of Class 10-A, and this is my reflection on the session organised by My Good School.

So, last Sunday, June 8th, was an excellent session! We kicked things off by chatting about everyone's holiday plans and catching up on personal matters. Then, we dove into a website called The Joy of Learning, which got us thinking about why it's so great to continue learning throughout our lives.

We spent a considerable amount of time going through a chapter about Carl and Sabine Gruber, really delving into their story and relationship. And to wrap things up, Manisha Khanna Ma'am led this fantastic, interactive session with riddles that got our brains really working!

Essentially, the key takeaways centred on personal growth, continuous learning, and finding happiness in viewing things from diverse perspectives. Everyone was encouraged to try out new skills, pick up some books, and just stay curious over their holidays. It was a really inspiring meeting!

Good day and Jai Hind

Aayush Kumar Singh

Class 10-A

Sunbeam School Ballia

Sunbeam Moments: Learning, Growing and Glowing!

Sunbeam Moments: Learning, Growing, Glowing.pptx by Manisha Khanna

Students from Sunbeam School Lahartara shared thoughtful reflections on the Sunday School stories of Guru Nanak’s travels and Kubja Ji. Guru Nanak’s journey inspired them to value humility, equality, and compassion. Kubja Ji’s story taught them the power of kindness and inner beauty. Their reflections showed a growing understanding of empathy, respect, and the strength of moral values in daily life.The story of Kubja, the legendary hunchbacked woman of Mathura. Guru Nanak and Oneness, what we learnt from the session with Amardeep Singh, at the screening of Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels Episode 17. Our understanding of religion, belief and much more.

A Sunday Well Spent: Voices from Sunbeam Lahartara

 

A Heartwarming Glimpse into Our Sunday Session at Sunbeam School

Reflections Sunday School # 183

Episode 16 – "Gyan Bohit: Boat of Wisdom" from the Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels series:

We are delighted to share a wonderful summary of this Sunday’s session, beautifully presented by the students of Sunbeam School. Their creativity, depth of thought, and enthusiastic participation reflect the joy and genuine love they have for our Sunday School experience.

It’s truly inspiring to witness how these young minds express themselves so freely, embracing every opportunity to learn, collaborate, and grow. Their reflections speak volumes about the impact of a nurturing and engaging environment—one where curiosity is encouraged, and learning is filled with meaning and purpose.

We warmly invite you to join us and experience firsthand the reason behind the students’ affection for our Sunday sessions. Discover how a thoughtful blend of creativity, values, and interactive learning makes each Sunday truly special.

Sunbeam School Lahartara

My Good School, Sunday the 6th April 2025

Sunday School # 183

Episode 16 – "Gyan Bohit: Boat of Wisdom" from the Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels series:

"Inner Awakening Through the Wisdom of the Guru"

This episode explores the metaphor of the Gyan Bohit—a wisdom boat that carries seekers across the ocean of illusion and ignorance toward truth, understanding, and liberation. The boat represents Guru Nanak's teachings, which guide individuals through the storms of life with clarity, courage, and compassion.

In Episode 16, Gyan Bohit: Boat of Wisdom, Guru Nanak's journey is shown as a physical exploration and a deep spiritual voyage. He meets people caught in rituals and superficial religious practices, and through dialogue and song, he gently steers them toward inner reflection and truth. The Gyan Bohit (wisdom boat) symbolises his teachings as a vessel to cross the worldly ocean (bhavsagar), freeing individuals from ignorance and leading them to a deeper purpose. The episode emphasises introspection, ethical living, and the transformative power of wisdom.

Reflection Questions:

1. What does the 'Boat of Wisdom' symbolise in your own life? What helps guide you through difficult times?

2. How do Guru Nanak's teachings encourage us to question blind rituals and seek truth through self-awareness?

3. Can you think of a moment when knowledge or insight helped you overcome a personal struggle?

4. Why is wisdom considered more potent than mere information or tradition in life?

5. How can we become 'boats of wisdom' for others around us—family, friends, or community?

Summary of Today's Session:

Amardeep led the session, focusing on Episode 16 of the 45-episode documentary series on Guru Nanak's travels. The key highlights included:

• The teachings of Guru Nanak emphasise respect for nature and understanding the symbolic meanings of natural elements (like rivers, trees, and mountains).

• A strong message on the importance of inner purification and genuine spirituality over mere external rituals.

• Coverage of Guru Nanak's journey from Bharuch, where he engaged in meaningful dialogues with saints and visited spiritually significant sites, promoting interfaith understanding and universal values.

The session encouraged reflection on spirituality, simplicity, and reverence for all forms of life—core themes in Guru Nanak's philosophy.

I am looking forward to our continued discussions. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need clarification. 

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

 

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

Nishan Karki on 'Pot of Wit'.

My Pot of Wit

Everyone's mind keeps on thinking about and discovering many new things. Every time there is something curious going on in people's minds.

My mind is also filled with curiosity about doing new and exciting things. My pot of wit means my mind is filled with many new ideas and thoughts. It is interested in reading, playing, writing and doing numerous things. 

Nishan Karki

Courtesy -
Shelja Thakur
Pestalozzi World Local Alumni Coordinator and Senior Student Liaison Officer
https://pestalozziworld.com/about/where-we-work/indian-village/

We are reading The Art Of Focus by Gauranga Das.

Value for August is Patience

In August, we celebrate Patience; please share your thoughts with us, comment below or send a blog post by email to LF@ebd.in.

We need to build the future of learning at school on 22 values: Appreciation, Caring, Cooperation, Courage, Freedom, Friendship, Happiness, Honesty, Hope, Humility, Love, Patience, Peace, Quality, Respect, Responsibility, Simplicity, Thoughtfulness, Tolerance, Trust, Understanding & Unity. The teachers collaborate and work in groups to discover how the values come alive. Individuals take stock of their values and how they wish to lead their life. This program will inspire you by using examples of where the values are already being used by children and adults in schools and share practical tools to stimulate discussion and philosophical debate. #JoyOfLearning

Joy Of Learning (JOL) is based on The Little Book of Values: Educating Children to Become Thinking, Responsible and Caring Citizens by Julie Duckworth and Ian Gilbert, which explores twenty-two values that can be taught through schools. 

My Good School
Where Passion Meets Education
www.MyGoodSchool.IN

Patience - Value Of The Month at My Good School

Hello Everyone. We are excited to share our poster for the value of August - Patience. 

Patience is a significant value for the students to develop as Patience is the key to success and strengthens our self-belief. I believe our classroom teaches us to live in harmony with our environment, which creates balance and harmony within us, developing Patience. The blackboard has always stood the test of time, teaching us patiently over the years to build our curiosity and think innovatively. 

Do you all agree that at My Good School, we are building the value of Patience by consistently reading every Sunday and listening patiently to each other, slowly helping us to learn and grow and experience the joy of learning?

Share your experiences and stories through written blogs, graphics, drawings or audio. You can email it to your school's blog coordinator mentioned in the poster.

Patience is the balm, the healer and the power behind learning. 

Arav Agarwal

Grade: 6

Billabong High International School, Thane

Step-by-step, day in and day out, we keep schooling ourselves; this cannot happen without perseverance. 

The Teacher, the Student, and the Blackboard have all stood the test of time; only the colour or materials may have changed - digital, intelligent, white...interactive. 

What is most crucial? 
Understanding comes with time, Patience and perseverance.

75 Year of Indian Independence, all of us are here this August to celebrate Patience, the value that alone keeps the world sane.

Let's Blog, email your thought and post to us at LF@ebd.in; visuals add value to your writings, and finally, stories retold are the best way to take learning forward at My Good School. 

Life Skills Program, by My Good School
Children pick up skills for life, preparing them to face the world. They experience values and virtues working with mentors and peers. Focus on the 6 C's: 1 Critical thinking; 2 Creativity; 3 Collaboration; 4 Communication; 5 Character; and 6 Citizenship. 

Check out www.GoodSchools.in 

#MyGoodSchool

#HappyTeachers

#JoyOfLearning

#75yearsofindependence

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