Sunday School is a wonderful time to read, learn and have fun together. Our reading sessions encourage us to share our ideas, listen to different perspectives and reflect on what we have read. Through these conversations, we develop a deeper understanding of the story and ourselves. Reading together makes learning joyful, meaningful and engaging.
The session on “My Family and Other Animals” with Brinda Ghosh ma'am was engaging, insightful, and enriching. The session beautifully explored the themes of family, relationships, nature, and the fascinating bond between humans and animals. Brinda Ghosh’s lively, captivating narration made the discussion enjoyable and easy to connect with.
The session encouraged us to look at the text from different perspectives and helped us appreciate the author’s unique way of portraying family and nature. Overall, it was an interactive and thought-provoking session that deepened our understanding of the work and left us with many interesting insights.
I really enjoyed the session on “My Family and Other Animals” by Brinda Ghosh ma'am. It was fun, interactive, and helped me better understand the book. I loved listening to the interesting insights and stories shared during the session. Overall, it was a wonderful and enriching experience!
The session was enriching and practical. Gerald Durrell’s words reminded me that slowing down helps us notice the extraordinary in ordinary routines, just as I pause during assemblies to observe gratitude and discipline in small gestures. Michiko Aoyama’s story of rice balls and crabs echoed how everyday choices, even in food or care, reflect empathy and respect, values I try to weave into classroom practices and family life. Overall, the readings were not just literary; they were mirrors to daily living, urging us to stay attentive, empathetic, and open-minded in our roles as educators and individuals.
Ravina
Reflections -PYDS by Manisha Khanna
Every Sunday School session is an opportunity to discover new ideas, explore inspiring stories, and develop meaningful life skills. Reading is just the beginning—the real learning happens when students pause to reflect on what they have read, connect it with their own experiences, and express their thoughts in their own words.
Through thoughtful reflections, students transform stories into life lessons, strengthen their critical thinking, and build confidence in expressing their ideas. Each reflection is a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and deeper understanding, showing that every book has the power to inspire, every story has a lesson to teach, and every learner has a unique voice worth sharing.
Book: What You Are Looking For Is in the Library
Mentor: Jugjiv Singh Sir
The webinar highlighted how books have the power to transform our thinking and help us understand ourselves better. The selected excerpts from What You Are Looking For Is in the Library showed that every individual has unique strengths, emotions, and experiences, and that kindness and encouragement can bring out the best in people.
The discussion about Confuciusornis symbolised discovering hidden potential and using creativity to give life to ideas. The reference to Monger, the "ultimate creature," reminded me that true strength is not only physical ability but also emotional resilience and the need for care and acceptance. The conversation about the Venus flytrap and other unusual examples encouraged curiosity and the habit of learning from nature.
One of the most touching parts was Nozomi's childhood experience of struggling to fit into the classroom. Ms. Komachi's simple words of appreciation changed her confidence and outlook. This reinforced the idea that a teacher's encouraging words can leave a lifelong impact on a student's life.
As a teacher, I realised that every learner has a different story and learns differently. My responsibility is not only to teach the syllabus but also to create a classroom where students feel respected, valued, and confident to express themselves. I will encourage reading, creativity, empathy, and meaningful discussions so that students develop both academically and emotionally.
Overall, the session reminded me that libraries and books are not merely places for information; they are spaces where hope, self-discovery, imagination, and lifelong learning begin.
The reading sessions were both enlightening and enjoyable, offering me an excellent platform to develop my reading habits, improve my comprehension skills, and appreciate the beauty of literature.
The first session was conducted by Brinda Ma'am, where she discussed the book My Family and Other Animals. In the session, Ma'am discussed the chapter "Conversation." Through the author's vivid descriptions, I experienced the charm of the spring season and the fascinating world of nature. Brinda Ma'am's engaging narration made the session both informative and captivating.
The second session was conducted by Jugjiv Sir, who guided us through the chapter "Hiroya" from What You Are Looking For Is in the Library. He made the session more engaging by asking many questions and also encouraging us to share our insights.
In the session, they also read the reflections written by the students.
In today's session, we first listened to the My Good School Anthem, and afterwards we read and saw all the creative reflections written by the students.
Brinda Ma'am's Session
In the first session by Brinda Ma'am, we enjoyed the story My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. We read the chapter "Conversation." This chapter was about the spring season. There were baby donkeys, tortoises, butterflies, and many more animals. We were also introduced to the book The Elizabethan Dramatists, which was recommended by Larry to his mother.
Session by Jugjiv Singh Sir
The second session by Jugjiv Singh Sir was marvellous, as Sir introduced us to new words and explained the chapter "Hiroya" from the book What You Are Looking For Is in the Library. Sir also asked many interesting questions.
Today's My Good School session was both enjoyable and meaningful.
Brinda Ma'am read My Family and Other Animals. In the story, Gerald's great-aunt planned to visit the family, but Lawrence and the other siblings did not want her to come. They kept suggesting excuses, and eventually the family shifted to a smaller house to politely avoid the visit. This made me smile because it reminded me of how many of us also ask our parents to make excuses when guests are about to arrive.
Today's sessions were highly engaging and enriching. Brinda Ma'am's beautiful reading and explanation of "Conversation" by Gerald Durrell helped me appreciate the beauty of nature and the warmth of family life. Jugjiv Singh Sir's interactive session introduced us to new vocabulary and made us think deeply through interesting questions.
My Reflection: Chapter "Conversation" by Gerald Durrell
Reading this chapter honestly feels like looking at a warm, sun-drenched painting made of words. It instantly brings a smile to your face because of how alive and joyful it feels.
What I loved most is how beautifully Ma'am connects nature with family life. On one hand, you see the entire island waking up after a long winter—lambs playing, tortoises shaking off the dirt, and flowers blooming. On the other hand, you see this wonderfully chaotic family doing the exact same thing: stepping out onto their veranda to soak in the sun.
My Takeaway— In today's busy world, this chapter is a gentle reminder that happiness is actually very simple. It is found in enjoying a beautiful morning, waiting for a letter, and the sweet, messy noise of a family spending time together.
The reading session by Brinda Ma'am on "Conversation" was enjoyable. This chapter taught me that meaningful conversations make family relationships stronger. I learned that simple moments, such as sitting together, talking, reading letters, and sharing laughter, can create lasting memories. The chapter also reminded me to appreciate the beauty of nature and enjoy life's small pleasures instead of always rushing.
Sunday Reading Session Reflection
From Jugjiv Sir's reading, I became fascinated by the idea of a time capsule—not just for preserving memories, but also for writing about what we would like to become at a certain age or stage of our lives, keeping in mind our current interests and passions. Then, when we reach that age, we can look back and see whether we truly achieved it or at least tried our best. I also thought that doing this with friends would be a really great idea.
Another thing that came to my mind was the awkwardness we often feel when meeting an old friend or someone we haven't talked to for a long time, not knowing whether they would be interested in talking or not. But eventually, we should take the first step and speak.
From Manisha Ma'am's reading, I was reminded of my Maths teacher. She wanted us to be more curious and practise the subject more. She is the teacher I have hated the most but also liked the most because of her way of teaching and motivating us. Sometimes, strictness doesn't always come from dislike; it can also come from wanting students to learn better. The story also reminded me that our deeds eventually come back to us.
Recently, I heard a line from someone that has stayed with me: "Teachers stay with us throughout our lives." Maybe through their teachings, their manners, or simply their thoughts and support.
Akanksha Rai, Class X-B
The session was very meaningful and thought-provoking. The core message—"A teacher should never judge students by their dressing or family background"—was conveyed with clarity and empathy.
It reminded us that empathy is more powerful than judgment. Every child comes from a different background, and our role as teachers is to guide, not to label. The quote, "As you sow, so shall you reap," beautifully explained that good karma leads to good results. The kindness, patience, and positivity we show today will return to us through the growth and success of our students tomorrow.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful moral story.
The session encouraged teachers to build classrooms based on respect, understanding, and a positive mindset. It was a strong reminder that we don't just teach subjects; we shape lives.
Teach with heart. Guide with belief. Because how we treat one student today decides the kind of human they become tomorrow.
Today's reading session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Khanna Ma'am, reminded me that people can have different perspectives in the same situation. It also made me realise that even simple incidents can teach valuable life lessons if we observe them carefully. Overall, the session encouraged me to be more understanding, observant, and appreciative of the lessons hidden in everyday experiences.
Riya Yadav
Educator
The story reading session conducted by Jugjiv Sir was a meaningful and engaging learning experience for me as a teacher. Through this story, I realised that reading is not just about understanding words but about connecting with emotions, developing empathy, and encouraging critical thinking. The way Jugjiv Sir explained the story made me understand the importance of expressive reading and guiding learners to reflect on the characters' feelings and experiences. I was particularly inspired by the kindness and support shown by Ms Komachi, which reminded me that every teacher should create a caring and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to learn. This session also reinforced my belief that stories are powerful tools for teaching life values, building emotional intelligence, and nurturing a lifelong love for reading. Overall, I learned that as a teacher, my role is not only to teach lessons but also to inspire, encourage, and support students in their academic and personal growth.
Today I listened to the story अँधेरे की फुसफुसाहट was a meaningful learning experience. The story reminded me that fear and confusion often arise from assumptions rather than reality, and that patience, courage, and careful observation help us understand situations more clearly. It also made me reflect on my role as a teacher, realising that every child may carry unseen fears, doubts, or challenges. Instead of judging students quickly, I should listen to them, understand their emotions, and guide them with empathy and encouragement. This story inspired me to create a positive and supportive classroom where students feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and learn without fear. Overall, it reinforced my belief that teaching is not only about completing the syllabus but also about building confidence, curiosity, and emotional strength in every learner.
My Reflection on Webinar – 5th July 2026 (Sunday), 10:30 a.m. onwards
The story-reading session conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Brinda Ma'am was a truly enriching learning experience. Through the selected excerpts from My Family and Other Animals and What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, I realised that reading is much more than decoding words; it is about observing, imagining, questioning, and connecting with life.
What inspired me most was the way the mentors encouraged us to pause, visualise the scenes, appreciate the beauty of language, and reflect on the emotions and values embedded within the text. The character of Ms Komachi reminded me that sometimes a teacher's simple guidance or timely encouragement can open new possibilities for a learner and help them discover interests they never knew they had.
This session strengthened my belief that reading should not be limited to completing a chapter or preparing for an assessment. As teachers, we should create opportunities for students to experience stories, think deeply, express their ideas confidently, and develop empathy through literature. It also reminded me that every book has the potential to shape not only language skills but also character and perspective.
Overall, the session inspired me to make reading a joyful, reflective, and meaningful experience in my classroom, where every student feels encouraged to explore, imagine, and grow.
The subsequent reading sessions by Mr Jugjiv Singh and Ms Manisha Khanna were equally insightful and encouraged us to reflect on the value of literature in our daily lives. The webinar reinforced the importance of reading, sharing ideas, and building meaningful relationships.
Overall, it was a well-conducted and inspiring session. I sincerely thank you for providing us with this valuable opportunity to learn and grow.
Regards,
Aayush Pandey
Social Science Department
In today's Sunday School session, I learned about a giant daikon and how fresh flowers and vegetables are grown and sold in the local market. Near the market, there is a community center connected to the elementary and high school. Although I have visited the center before, my mother often goes there to attend flower-arranging classes.
Jugjiv Sir shared something I never thought about before: how vegetables like the Miura daikon radish travel from the farm to wholesale markets like Azadpur Mandi before reaching the shop near our home. We discussed how seasons affect when vegetables are available and how farmers, middlemen, and markets all work together so we get fresh food. He even spoke about going with his mother to a community house near a school to bring back more vegetables.
Sunday School Reflection
During the session, we also discussed manga, graphic novels in India, and the challenges faced by many NEETs who struggle to find jobs. Jugjiv Sir emphasized the importance of developing our skills for a better future.
In the story, Hiroya visited a library and met Miss Komachi. He liked the peaceful atmosphere of the library and shared his struggles with finding work related to illustration. This chapter taught us that guidance, books, and continuous learning can help people find direction in life.
Ishika Singh, 10th B
The Sunday reading sessions taught me that books are not just stories—they are windows to new ideas, emotions, and experiences. Through these readings, I learned the importance of observation, family values, gratitude, and finding joy in life’s simple moments. Every page opened a new perspective and inspired me to become a better learner and reader. 📚✨
I particularly appreciated how the discussion highlighted the beauty of descriptive writing, the relationship between humans and nature, and the author's use of humour to make everyday experiences meaningful.
The pace of the session allowed participants to absorb the text thoughtfully, while the shared reading created a collaborative learning environment. Such sessions remind us that literature is not only about understanding words on a page but also about developing empathy, imagination, and critical thinking.
I am grateful to Sandeep Dutt Sir, Jugjiv Sir, Kunal Sir, Brinda Ma'am, and Manisha Ma'am for their dedication to fostering a culture of reading and meaningful dialogue. Their efforts made the webinar engaging, reflective, and professionally enriching for educators and learners alike.
Rekha Sharma, Teacher, Sunbeam School Mau
Reading is one of the best habits for keeping our minds healthy and active. It improves our concentration, increases knowledge, and helps us think more clearly. Reading good books reduces stress, boosts creativity, and fosters empathy by helping us understand different people and perspectives. Just as exercise keeps our body fit, reading keeps our brain sharp and strong. A few minutes of reading every day can help us learn new ideas, build confidence, and maintain a positive mindset.
Maira Jalan
Today’s session began with the Good School Alliance Anthem, followed by a brief review of reflections from previous sessions.
In the first session, we explored the book My Family and Other Animals. Brinda Ma’am read the story beautifully, explained unfamiliar words, and clarified our doubts. One of the most exciting parts was when Roger tried to catch an owl, but the owl attacked him. Frightened, Roger shook the bird off and hid under the table, refusing to come out until Ulysses was safely back in his basket. The story was adventurous, engaging, and enjoyable.
Jugiv Sir’s session was both informative and enjoyable. He first introduced the My Good School Alliance platform to the new students. He then continued reading from his book, What Are You Looking For Is in the Library. Sir discussed the previous chapters before moving ahead with the story, making it easy for everyone to connect with the narrative. The session was very interesting and interactive.
In this session, we discussed Surang (सुरंग), a chapter written by Ruskin Bond. Manisha Ma’am explained that the story revolves around a boy who observes a tunnel and appreciates the beauty of the surrounding nature. Her explanation helped us understand the deeper connection between the character and his surroundings. The session was insightful and enriching.
Today’s My Good School session was very interesting and informative.
Brinda Ma’am read an excerpt from My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. In the story, Gerald found a tiny owlet that was the size of a teacup. At first, the owlet remained distant and did not show much affection. Gerald’s dog tried to befriend it, and gradually, the owlet also became attached to Gerald. It would go out hunting at night and return shortly afterwards, showing its growing trust in him.
During the session, we learned many new and challenging words that helped improve our vocabulary. We also came across the names of different flowers and animals, which made the story more interesting and educational. We learned about porpoises and discovered that they are similar to dolphins. Brinda Ma’am also introduced us to the famous Tintin books and encouraged us to read them.
The session helped us learn more about nature, animals, and literature in an enjoyable way. Overall, it was an engaging, enriching, and memorable learning experience.
The story was adventurous, enjoyable, and full of interesting facts about nature and wildlife. Towards the end of the session, Brinda Ma’am also discussed the wildlife sanctuary established by Anant Ambani in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The session was informative and engaging, and helped us learn many new things.
