By Mahek Khan for BIS Mumbai

A Class Connect Initiative at Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul

July 5, 2025, Nerul, Mumbai – Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul, conducted Milestones and Moments, a Class Connect initiative organised by the Foundational Stage I and II teams in the Assembly Hall. The programme aimed to strengthen the home–school partnership by helping parents understand the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children during their early learning years.

Fr Barnabe D’Souza, Director of the institution, addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of early childhood growth and development. He spoke of the school’s commitment to holistic education and emphasised the need for collaboration between parents and educators in nurturing each child’s potential. Fr Shekhar, Administrator, welcomed the parents and interacted with them, reinforcing the school’s strong sense of community. Mrs Kalyani Choudhary, Principal, was also present and extended her support to the initiative.

The event began with a session conducted by Ms Prutha and Ms Janaki, counsellors from Prafulta – Don Bosco Academy. Drawing from their experience working with children with diverse learning needs, they explained the stages of early childhood development and emphasised the emotional growth that occurs during the foundational years. They also guided parents on helping children recognise, express, and manage their emotions in healthy ways.

Mrs Renu Dudhmande, a physiotherapist from Aum Centre, Seawoods, spoke on physical development. She demonstrated posture-improving exercises and raised awareness about the adverse effects of excessive screen time. Her presentation included practical suggestions to encourage active routines and better physical habits at home.

Dr Sameedha Rao, a paediatrician, focused on the importance of nutrition and outdoor play in child development. She highlighted how active play contributes to both physical and cognitive growth, and shared simple dietary and lifestyle tips that families could implement easily.

The school also launched an environmental and emotional initiative titled Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam (A Tree for Mother). As part of this symbolic tribute to motherhood, each class participated in seed sowing—Class I planted tomato seeds and Class II planted chilli seeds. The initiative served as a reminder of nurturing relationships and the responsibility of growth.

Following the sessions, parents visited their children’s classrooms for Class Connect interactions. Teachers and PTA members discussed assessment rubrics, shared expectations, and responded to queries. The open forum encouraged two-way dialogue, fostering clarity and collaboration.

Parents expressed appreciation for the well-organised sessions, noting that the event was informative, relevant, and emotionally enriching. The initiative brought together educators, experts, and families to build stronger foundations for the children's overall development.