By Tr Mahek Khan for BIS Mumbai

Dominic Savio Kindergarten conducted its first Class Connect – Moments & Milestones session for parents at Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul, on July 10. The programme introduced parents to two new teaching approaches Passion Projects and Theatre-Based Learning that will be implemented in the kindergarten classrooms during the academic year.

The session aimed to help parents understand how these child-centred learning approaches promote creativity, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, confidence, and self-expression among young learners. Kindergarten teachers explained the objectives of both methodologies through interactive presentations and live demonstrations, allowing parents to experience the learning process from a child's perspective.

Parents actively participated in the activities and interacted with the teachers throughout the session. The demonstrations provided insight into how classroom experiences are designed to encourage inquiry, imagination, and meaningful learning rather than rote instruction.

An interactive parent energiser based on the theme of reducing children's screen time formed another highlight of the programme. Through a lively rhyme and action-based activity, teachers addressed one of the common concerns faced by families today excessive dependence on digital screens during mealtimes and daily routines. The activity encouraged parents to adopt simple alternatives that promote healthy habits, family interaction, and positive values in an engaging manner.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Joyston Machado encouraged parents to continue working in partnership with the school to support the holistic growth of their children during the foundational years of education.

Headmistress Mrs Jyotsna D'Souza introduced parents to the newly established Peace Corner, an initiative being implemented in the kindergarten classrooms. She explained that the Peace Corner provides children with a safe and supportive space to recognise and regulate their emotions, practise self-calming strategies, resolve conflicts peacefully, and develop emotional awareness. The initiative forms part of the school's continued emphasis on nurturing children's social and emotional well-being alongside their academic development.

The session concluded with an interactive discussion during which parents shared their observations and appreciated the school's efforts to introduce innovative and developmentally appropriate learning practices. The programme strengthened the partnership between parents and educators while providing a clear understanding of the school's vision for holistic early childhood education.