‘Thanks to Rhythms Kinderworld, my son is trying to speak full sentences in English, even at home’

Kumar Abhishek’s son Mahiraj Dev Sharma, who will turn three this month, has recently started going to school. For the pre-nursery student of Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld, Jalandhar, it was difficult initially to even sit through online classes. His teacher, however, took personal care to gradually help him adapt. In an interview, the father, who is the owner of Sunny Sales that deals in welding electrodes, shares what influenced his son’s progress. Edited excerpts:

Why did you decide to start your child’s formal schooling with Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld, Jalandhar?

I am an Apeejay alumnus myself; I did my schooling at Apeejay School, Model Town. I had a wonderful experience at school so, we decided to enroll our child in Apeejay Kinderworld, Jalandhar. Mahiraj’s joined the school in March this year. The academic session began with online classes but now, he is going to school.

What memories do you have from your time at Apeejay?

I was average in academics, but I was a basketball player. I was the captain of the school team. My time at school was fun. Whatever I have learned is because of Apeejay only. The only friends that I have to date are those from school. We also meet our teachers occasionally, many of whom have retired.

How well did your son adapt to online classes?

My son attended the classes with his grandmother. As in the case of most young kids, Mahavir was hyperactive, and it was difficult to get him to sit in front of the screen for long. However, now he loves the school and his teachers.

What brought about the change?

I have to thank his teacher. It was her patience and sincere efforts which finally made the difference. She suggested I take my son to the school for 30 mins to interact. We did this for three to four days, and we could see him bonding with his teacher. Gradually, he started taking interest in online classes, just to see what his teacher said or did. He even tries to imitate her (laughs)!

Since both of you and your wife are working parents, how do you manage to keep up with the developments at school?

The teacher kept my wife Priya, assistant manager, HDFC bank, informed about every progress at school. They connect on a regular basis.

Now that your son has started going to school physically, what progress have you seen in him?

Mahavir had difficulty speaking earlier. Now, he tries to speak full sentences in English, even at home.  Besides, he also participates in many extra-curricular activities—he dances well and is gradually learning to hum songs.

What methods do teachers use to keep the students engaged in the classroom?

The kids are mostly taught through various interesting activities. In fact, the approach has worked well in the case of my son. He is learning very well.