INTRODUCTION
As parents, we want our children to develop a lifetime passion for learning, which will prepare them for the fast-evolving future when learning will need to be continuous to enable adaptation to rapid continuous changes.
So, it’s more than just academic success; it’s about fostering curiosity and excitement for exploring the world around them.
Here are some engaging activities to consider, dear parents – to spark a lifelong love of learning in your young learners:
1. Explore Nature
- Go for a hike: Discover the wonders of Nature and identify different plants and animals.
- Create a nature journal: Encourage your child to draw and write about their observations.
- Plant a garden: Watch seeds grow into plants and learn about the life cycle.
2. Read Together
- Visit a library: Explore different genres and find books that interest your child.
- Create a cozy reading nook: Make reading a memorable and enjoyable experience.
- Discuss the story: Ask open-ended questions and positively encourage discussion to encourage critical thinking and comprehension.
- Suggest they write a daily/weekly diary: just writing their observations in their diary periodically can be great learning & help cognitively/emotionally (maybe set an example first – dear parent).
3. Hands-On Learning
- Do basic science experiments: Explore the scientific method and have fun with simple experiments at home – ‘say’, lifting things with simple levers or using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight/magnify/burn some waste paper.
- Build with blocks or LEGOs: Develop creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Cook or bake together: Learn about measurements, following instructions, and the chemistry of food.
4. Art and Creativity
- Draw, paint, or sculpt: Encourage self-expression and imagination.
- Try different art techniques: Experiment with various materials and tools.
- Visit museums or art galleries: Inspire creativity and appreciation for art.
- Join an art activities event: Try participating in an art event in the neighbourhood, such as a painting or a rangoli competition.
5. Games and Puzzles
- Play board games: Develop strategic thinking and teamwork skills.
- Do puzzles: Improve problem-solving and concentration.
- Learn a new game: Challenge your child to try something new and exciting/participate with your child.
6. Community Involvement
- Volunteer together: Give back to the community and teach your child the importance of helping others.
- Attend local events: Explore your community and learn about different cultures and traditions.
- Join a club or group: Connect with other families and share interests.
7. Sustainability & eco-friendly practices
- Greenery: grow/have lots of potted plants & if possible, a small kitchen garden at home
- Recycle: Give used or unused clothes to the underprivileged or others—and be comfortable taking from others—to encourage recycling.
- Avoid plastics: Avoid plastic usage. Use a cloth carry bag with you & your child when doing sundry/small shopping.
- Avoid waste: food waste or other waste can be avoided to encourage good values.
8. Encourage Curiosity
- Ask open-ended questions: Spark Curiosity and critical thinking.
- Support their interests: Provide opportunities for them to explore their passions.
- Celebrate their achievements: Recognize and reward their efforts and accomplishments.
Remember, making learning fun and engaging is the key to sparking a lifelong love of learning. By incorporating these activities into your child’s daily life, you can help them develop a curiosity and excitement for learning that will benefit them throughout their lives.
In our evolving world, it’s essential to supplement the efforts of school & equip our children with more than just academics. So they become curious, confident, and values-led, well-rounded individuals.
The Sixth Element School values & encourages all of the above
Why – the Sixth Element?
The Sixth Element was a phrase coined by the school founders 20 years ago to illustrate igniting the joy of learning —crucial for children’s development —as we nurture and prepare them for the future.
How to Foster a Well-Rounded Child?
While there is lots of operating structure and detailed SOPs in the school’s daily /weekly/monthly/annual – schedules – “how” the same is executed is unique – i.e., the Sixth element way of incorporating co-curricular & scientific & artistic activities, project work etc – leading to children enjoy learning & look forward to coming to school each day (and interestingly they do miss school on holidays 😊 ! )
Some examples of what’s done to instil values & character building:
- Instil values: Understanding differences between right and wrong is often discussed in its many facets. Discussing environmental issues, volunteering for community activities, clean-ups, and respecting all living beings.
- Values as a Compass: Values are the moral principles that guide our actions. The Cambridge International Curriculum emphasises global citizenship and community service and fosters values like respect, empathy, and responsibility.
- Embrace sustainability: Reduce waste, conserve energy, and grow your food together. Encouraging minimalism (BTW, we are a uniform school), upcycling, gardening, and exploring green technologies like rainwater harvesting, recycling, etc
- Building Confidence: The curriculum’s focus on individual & team achievement (over experiential projects in small groups) and overcoming difficulties – and making progress, encouraged by the teacher, helps build self-esteem. Students develop a strong sense of confidence and resilience by setting and achieving goals.
- Life Skills for Real World: The curriculum’s focus on independent learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving equips students with essential life skills. These skills are invaluable in navigating challenges and opportunities- building confidence.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT’s commitment to sustainability?
As the Sixth Element, education should go beyond classrooms. Our green, airy, spacious campuses are a living laboratory where children learn experientially about sustainable practices. From solar panels to rainwater harvesting, recycling & near no plastics usage.
Our curriculum integrates sustainability into every subject, fostering a deep appreciation for nature, science, commerce & the arts – while instilling a desire to protect our planet.
By igniting the joy of learning and nurturing curiosity, confidence, values, and environmental consciousness – we empower children to become successful individuals and equally responsible members of society and global citizens.
Does a unique International Curriculum School like the Sixth Element help?
A progressive, holistic school following Cambridge International Curriculum significantly contributes to lots of experiential learning and project-based work.
The Sixth Element School: Where Cambridge International meets India- in an exclusive, low-density, impactful format
We chose the Cambridge International curriculum because the blend of teacher-directed and learner-driven learning and research seems relevant for aspirational kids from Indian families keen on preparing their kids to be global citizens of the future, whether based in India or overseas.
Is the Sixth Element School duly registered with Cambridge International?
Yes, The Sixth Element School – is duly registered as one of over 10,000 schools globally – as a Cambridge International school with a global registration number IA 892
Are you keen to see what a unique school like The Sixth Element School offers? Schedule a visit and see why it could be the perfect launchpad for your child’s bright, global future!
We started the first sixth element school 20 years back in 2004 @ Gurgaon.
Our schools, afternoon extended school afternoon’, and activities enriched’ daycare centers are unique, exclusive, compact neighborhood green campuses where children participate in many outdoor activities and experiential learning (physical—not digital) most days.
Our unique smaller campus—with only two sections and limited children—lets us properly focus on each child’s growth and development.
We are proud of our high-quality, committed teachers – the backbone of any good learning environment.
We raise well-rounded, future-ready individuals who are prepared to face the world’s challenges with confidence and integrity, using the proper methods and practices. For example, our foundational fitness program, delivered in partnership with Fit Kids, our gym, our green playgrounds, and our great coaches, gives our school kids a tremendous foundational fitness start.
A good understanding and partnership between parents and schools are key to nurturing the future leaders of Gurugram, our great nation, and our planet.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT SCHOOL WE BELIEVE IN THE IMPORTANCE OF CATALYSING & ENSURING “THE SIXTH ELEMENT – i.e. THE JOY OF LEARNING” FOR EVERY CHILD. OUR CURRICULUM IS BENCHMARKED WITH THE BEST INTERNATIONALLY WHILE DRAWING FROM OUR VERY OWN CORE ANCIENT INDIAN BEST PRACTICES SUCH AS THE GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA) & VALUES. THANKS TO ITS 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND ITS CORE CHILD DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES DRAWN FROM PIAGET, VYGOSTKY AND BRUNER – WHICH IS INCIDENTALLY THE RESOURCE POOL – FOR THE FOUNDATIONAL YEARS SCHOOL CURRICULUM OF THE UPGRADED NEW EDUCATION (NEP) UNDER ROLLOUT IN INDIA NOW.
So, in line with some of India’s top and globally the very best, we are now a unique 100% Cambridge International School.
www.sixthelment.edu.in
the Sixth Element School
the schoolchildren love
SOUTH CITY 1. TATA PRIMANTI (sector 72)
85272-74695 or 97736-32626
since 2004(20 years)
Limited enrollment is now available in pre-NURSERY, NURSERY, KG & DAYCARE, grade 1.
@ Gurgaon’s only single-section “exclusive” boutique VENTILATED, AIRY, SPACIOUS. GREEN SCHOOL CAMPUSES
