by Jeneta Ratinam for BISMumbai

Don Bosco Primary School, Matunga, organized an outdoor educational initiative titled ‘Mama Hope Magic Day’ for students of Grades I and II on December 2. The event aimed to shift the focus from traditional classroom setups and smartboards to hands-on learning in a natural environment.

The sessions were conducted on the school grounds, utilizing the open space for observation and movement. Teachers designed lessons that integrated the surroundings with the curriculum, focusing on storytelling, nature study, and practical life skills.

For Grade I, the activities centered on nature and drama. Students of Class I A and I B engaged in story sequencing and role-play based on The Fox and the Crow, using flashcards, masks, and props. Class I B students further explored the topic ‘Plants Around Us’ by collecting leaves and observing different trees on the campus. Meanwhile, students in Class I C and I D participated in yoga, singing, and interactive number games under the shade of the trees.

Grade II students participated in sessions designed to build conceptual understanding. Class II A and II D focused on reading and story comprehension using charts. Class II B learned about computer parts through activity-based methods and ‘brain gym’ exercises on the turf. In Class II C, the teacher introduced the concept of the ancient Gurukul system, followed by lessons comparing city and village life. Practical sessions on currency involved the use of play money to teach mathematical concepts.

Lakshy Gupta, a student of Grade I, said, "I loved studying outside and playing the story game with my friends." Abhimanyu Nirbhawne of Grade II added, "Using the play money and learning about notes was so much fun today."

Johncy Varghese noted that the change in setting was beneficial. "The experience was enriching for both teachers and students. Learning under the shade, feeling the breeze, and observing nature closely helped every child connect better with the day’s lessons," she said.