TravelTrails
The National Bal Bhavan leads & coordinates Indian educational institutes too!
Founded in 1956, the Bhavan was established to foster the creative potential of children
Place: National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi
Location: 28.6290° N, 77.2410° E
When to Visit: The best visiting hours are from 9 am to 5:30 pm; the National Bal Bhavan remains closed on Sundays, Mondays, and all Gazette holidays.
Dos and Don’ts: Engage respectfully with all exhibits and activities; follow the specific guidelines for each activity area. Children must be accompanied by adults where necessary.
Significance in History
Founded in 1956 by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the National Bal Bhavan was established to foster the creative potential of children and provide a platform beyond the formal education system to develop their personalities comprehensively.
What to See
Toy Train and Traffic Park: Engage with interactive exhibits like the Toy Train. The ride mimics a real train experience in a miniature format, allowing children to enjoy the thrill of a train journey within the safety of the institution’s grounds.
Museum: Includes the National Children Museum, Hamara Bharat Gallery, and other themed galleries. This museum houses various collections that reflect India’s diverse cultural heritage. It offers educational and cultural exhibits that are designed to stimulate the interest of children in the history and diversity of their country.
Mini Zoo and Jawahar Fish Aquarium: Explore biodiversity in a controlled environment. This aquarium features a range of aquatic life, allowing children to learn about marine and freshwater ecosystems, fish species, and the ecological balance of aquatic environments.
Science Park: Offers hands-on science exhibits. It includes devices and setups demonstrating various scientific phenomena, allowing children to experiment and learn through direct interaction.
Interesting Facts
· National Bal Bhavan facilitates a variety of activities ranging from science and arts to physical education, helping children explore their interests in a non-formal, engaging environment.
· It also functions as an apex body coordinating activities and standards for affiliated institutes across India, ensuring a uniform experience of learning and creativity.
· The bhavan emphasises learning through play and encourages children to discover their innate talents and interests in a supportive setting.
· It also has facilities like a Traffic Park and a Museum Technique Club.
· The bhavan awards the prestigious Bal Shree Honor; it recognises and nurtures exceptional creative talents in children in categories like creative performance, creative art, creative writing, and scientific innovation.
· The institute hosts the National Children Assembly and Integration Camps annually.
· The library serves as a learning space that organises storytelling sessions, book reading competitions, and workshops that enhance literacy skills among children as well.
