tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48678829188553848552024-03-14T08:30:33.080+05:30The Tiny ToesThis is an online journal by, Seema Karecha, and Krupa Sinroja Dalal, about experiences and beliefs in raising and educating children, beautifully. Contact : thetinytoes@gmail.comSeema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-68648299043184021172019-03-17T10:04:00.004+05:302019-03-17T10:07:12.693+05:30Importance of Reading and ways to cultivate it<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Importance of Reading and ways to cultivate it</span></b></span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Reading skills benefit students not only academically, they are also a skill required for lifelong success. Reading develops vocabulary, increases attention span, and promotes stronger analytical thinking.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To help your child understand the importance of reading, start reading stories, bedtime stories from an early age (by 1 year). Start a routine with some short stories, fairy tales or fables .</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ways to encourage reading: </span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Use interactive books</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Expose her to books from a variety of genres.</span> </li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Take her to the local library.</span> </li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Set a daily reading time.</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Let your chid select her favourite books and authors.</span></span></span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Demonstrate your love of reading to your kids.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Read their favourite stories again and again.</span></span></span> </li>
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<li>Ask questions to encourage speaking skills. </li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-74357688692909967812019-02-24T11:36:00.000+05:302019-02-24T11:36:07.185+05:30Think out of the box<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Think out of the box!!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">" We teach children</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To color inside the lines</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And then,expect</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Adults to think out of the box."</span></div>
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A child doesn't stay within the lines when coloring an image in outline. The implied meaning is that they aren't following the rules. </div>
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Staying within the lines means a child is following the order, but it does not allow thinking beyond the boundaries. It has it's value, absolutely, but it shouldn't be the only message a child gets.<br />It is good in teaching discipline but does little for encouraging imaginative thinking.<br />Children are amazing thinkers before we silence them.<br />Einstein said, "Imagination is more important than knowledge." Imagination is the door to possibilities. It is where creativity, ingenuity, and thinking outside the box begin for child development.<br />Ask open-ended and thought-provoking questions <br />that will provoke imaginative and creative thinking and invite the child to express his ideas and share his visions.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-61672934810136959112019-02-10T12:00:00.001+05:302019-02-10T12:00:35.189+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Shyness-A misunderstood emotion<br />
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Some children are slow to warm up or uncomfortable in social situations. We often say they’re naturally shy.<br />
Shyness is a common, but a misunderstood emotion. All children are not extroverts, every child is not popular. Not all parents can accept this fact with a smile. They fail to see this as a personality trait, and treat it as a drawback. Many a times, even school teachers call on the shy child, encourage, and at times, indirectly force the child to talk or interact with other classmates.<br />
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Shyness is not a problem or disorder which needs attention. Most shy people outgrow their shyness with time.<br />
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A few tips to help the child overcome shyness:<br />
<br />
- Give your child time to feel comfortable..<br />
- Stay with your child in social situations, like playgroup or parents group, while encouraging her to explore. As your child gets more comfortable you can gradually move away for short periods. Build up their confidence slowly and gradually.<br />
- Be patient and listen to them.<br />
- Build a relationship of trust with your shy child.<br />
Know, accept and love your child.<br />
- If other people say your child is ‘shy’, gently correct them in front of your child. For example, ‘She’s not shy – she just takes a little while to get comfortable and then she’ll join in’.<br />
- Avoid negative comparisons with more confident siblings or friends. Instead help to build your child’s self-esteem by focusing on even small steps towards being less shy.<br />
- Dont discuss the child and her problems in front of the child or the other children or adults in the family.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-6525594205451209002018-01-11T12:27:00.003+05:302018-01-11T12:27:59.117+05:30How to develop Active Listening Skills!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A child’s ability to actively listen has a major impact on building the communication skills needed both inside and outside of the classroom.<br />
Active listening is an important “soft skill”, like problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork. It’s a skill that can be acquired and developed — but it takes time and patience to master!<br />
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Try these activities to help develop and sharpen your child’s listening skills.<br />
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1. Read stories to your child - Ask him or her to predict what will happen next. The prediction requires your child to listen to the details to make a logical guess.<br />
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2. Cook with your child - Read the recipe to him or her, having your child listen to and follow each step to complete the recipe correctly.<br />
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3. Get creative with “follow the directions"- Give short, simple instructions and have your child draw according to the directions they hear.<br />
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4. Enjoy telling jokes & encourage re-telling of them.<br />
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5. Take time to answer your child's question- model being a good listener!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-90444062673727889112017-11-16T11:44:00.000+05:302017-11-16T11:44:25.009+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Child Development:<br />
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Children are most relaxed while drawing, or playing, and that is when they end up sitting or lying in various comfortable positions.<br />
But, if you notice your child sitting with their knees bent, feet tucked under, and their legs splayed out to the side in a ‘W’ like position; then that’s DANGER written all over it!Children consider ‘W-sitting’ as a standard position, and because nobody stopped them doing this, it becomes their habit and then they end up feeling secure and supported with this arrangement.<br />
But, letting a child sit in this position for too long can adversely affect their growth and development.<br />
Not only it leads to them suffering through orthopedic issues, but also sees delayed development of Refined Motor Skills.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-15062640820806621122012-11-13T08:52:00.001+05:302012-11-13T08:52:11.235+05:30Happy Diwali. A very Happy Diwali to my Tiny Toes Family. May God bless us with a beautiful life filled with love and laughter with our families and friends...May the light in me see the light in you.<br /><br /><br />Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-26451600448289157752012-09-10T11:51:00.003+05:302012-09-10T11:55:53.425+05:30A happy Mom. <br />
It feels like yesterday when Aryan started going to a neighborhood preschool. And these 2 years have been just beautiful. But the task of getting him enrolled to a regular school, far from home, where he would be spending a major part of his day, was a daunting one. I had a few requirements. The school shouldn't be too far away from home. I hate the prospect of children traveling many kilometers just to reach the school. Secondly, I did not want a huge set up for my child, where among 100's of classmates, his identity will most likely be lost. Children flourish in comparatively small setups where the teacher student ratio is healthy and where the teacher gets a chance to know and understand her students. After months and months of stressful days and sleepless nights, one cold december evening on my way back home, I came across a huge hoarding that announced the opening of Geetanjali olympiad school on Sarjapur road. It felt like Santa was generous this Christmas.<br />
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Very soon, we decided to have a look at the school. After spending some time studying the curriculum, the fee structure and the teacher student ratio, we finally enrolled Aryan with Geetanjali Olympiad School.<br />
<br />
Today, it has been almost 2 months since he started going to Geetanjali. And I am a happy parent. I got a chance to spend a day at the school and make a few observations. Let me share them with you.<br />
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The Team:<br />
<br />
The Geetanjali Educational Institution is founded by Shri P. Srinivisa Rao, who aims to accommodate the school with world class education along with latest technological amenities. The Bangalore school division is headed by Mr. Gurajala Jagan Rao and Mrs. Sireesha.<br />
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Mrs. Bela Murthy, the school principal, is an intelligent and a charming lady. She brings with her the knowledge and the work experience from other reputed schools like NPS, Dhirubhai Ambani School and India International. She quit her corporate career and is dedicated to the field of education.<br />
<br />
Ms Shilpa K is the vice-principal of the school, but it would be apt to call her the face of the school. Extremely friendly, she is very much approachable by parents, and deals with the functioning of the school meticulously. I very much appreciate her open mindedness when dealing with children and their problems.<br />
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The teachers are well trained as per the x-seed curriculum. I found them to be very kind and loving towards students. Every class room has a subject teacher and an assistant teacher. Emphasis is laid on giving personal attention to every student.<br />
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Curriculum and Education:<br />
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The school follows CBSE syllabus. The curriculum focuses on the holistic development of the child. Olympiads exams are mandatory for all students, beginning from class 1 and a lot of emphasis is laid on every student’s participation. The lessons are project based. Children are not burdened by too much home work and are encouraged to learn using a hands on approach. All classrooms are equipped with smart boards. The teacher student ratio is very good and teachers are very involved with the students. Every student gets personal attention and the teacher parent communication levels are very high. The school policies are very transparent and clear.<br />
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Campus:<br />
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The school building is spread over 2 acres. The campus is child friendly. The classrooms are spacious and airy. As the school is new, some of the facilities are under construction. The computer lab, auditorium and the library hall is ready, while the swimming pool, basketball area, and the play area for children will be ready soon.<br />
<br />
Overall:<br />
<br />
All class rooms are equipped with CCTV and Smartboards.<br />
Housekeeping, Sports and Dance based activities are done in coordination with professional agencies.<br />
The fee structure is affordable when compared to other high end schools in Bangalore.<br />
The transport facilities are up to the mark too.<br />
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Conclusion:<br />
<br />
Geetanjali Olympiad school in Bangalore is in its infancy. Most of the facilities are ready and the remaining ones are due to be completed shortly. Given a couple of months to settle down, I think the school campus will be complete soon. The school is very well located. Surrounded by IT offices and premium residential buildings, it is bound to be popular among young parents in the Sarjarpur Outer Ring road area very soon. The school team is dedicated and hardworking and the future looks to be very promising.<br />
<br />
All these reasons, and many many more, make me a happy parent for having chosen this school for Aryan. Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-37654885676137220472011-12-30T16:42:00.002+05:302011-12-30T16:42:49.066+05:30On vacation...a long long vacation :)Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-43153521140237846202011-10-25T13:54:00.000+05:302011-10-25T13:54:59.627+05:30Diwali<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/25/146.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/25/s_146.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='212' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
'Diwali' or 'Dipavali' means an array of lamps or rows of diyas (deep = lamp, vali = array). Of all the festivals celebrated in India, Diwali is the most glamorous and important. This festival is enthusiastically enjoyed by people of the hindu religion. Its magical and radiant touch creates an atmosphere of joy and festivity. <br />
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Diwali is celebrated 20 days after Dussehra, on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin (October, November). It is a festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It celebrates the victory of good over evil - and the glory of light. <br />
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This festival commemorates Lord Rama's return to his kingdom Ayodhya after completing his 14-year exile. Homes are decorated by lights or diyas, and we go to our friend's house to celebrate this festival. Diwali's the time for fun and revelry. Diwail is also a time for pooja and tradition.<br />
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Diwali is celebrated all over India and the reason for the celebration is different between North and South India. <br />
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In South India, Diwali is celebrated to mark the killing of the evil monster, Narakasura, by Lord Krishna. Before Narakasura died, Krishna granted him his last wish, which was that the day of his death be celebrated with festivities and fun. On Deepavali day, families, adults and children alike, wake up early and prepare for the celebration. They take a bath with oil to rinse away the evil. <br />
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People in North India celebrate Diwali to mark the return of the God Rama to Ayodhya after living in the forest for 14 years. It is believed that upon his return, Rama was crowned the king of Ayodhya. On Diwali, this story is reenacted, followed by fireworks and other festivities. <br />
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Some Hindus celebrate Lakshmi Puja on the day after Deepavali, which most consider an important part of Diwali. Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth. Lakshmi idols are washed and decorated followed by prayer and worship, seeking blessings and prosperity.<br />
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Diwali is also the beginning of the Hindu calendar and on this day merchants open their shops and farmers plant their winter crops. As you can see, Diwali is an excellent and joyous holiday, important to Indians and their culture.<br />
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Sweets are the best way to shower your Diwali blessings on your loved ones. Sweeten your palate and delight your kids with some of the best-loved Diwali sweets recipes on the Indian continent.<br />
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How to perform the Diwali Puja:<br />
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Clean the Puja room ( the worship area) and then bathe the idols, first with water, then with panchamitra/or rose water, followed by water once again. Then lit the Deepak (Lamp) in front of the Deities . The diyas of clay are lighted to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. <br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/25/148.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/25/s_148.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Ganesh Puja is an part of the deepavali Puja. As per the Lord Ganesha is to be worshipped in all pujas before any other God or Goddess. In Ganesh puja, Ganesh Aarti is sung and laddoos are offered to the god. <br />
For the Laxmi puja, place a Lotus and other flowers at her feet as an offering. A silver coin is placed in front of the Goddess during the puja. Now perform Aarti with flowers in hand. After the Diwali puja, enjoy the Prasad and go out to burst Diwali Crackers.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/25/149.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/25/s_149.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Prepare Panchamitra using the 5 ingredients of milk, curd, ghee (clarified butter), sugar & Honey.<br />
Place few mithais (sweets) snacks & fruits and offer them as prashad.<br />
Make offerings of flowers, Abir (red colour), Sindoor (vermillion) and Haldi (turmeric). <br />
Light the Agarbatti (incense sticks) and lamps filled with Ghee.<br />
Make offerings of Fruit, Sweet dishes (mithai), Salty snacks (Mathis, Ghathia, Namakpare) and offer Dakshina (token money), which could be given to the poor. In the end offer paan (betel leaves), cloves. <br />
Now pray to the deities to seek their blessings.<br />
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The Indian mithais :<br />
<br />
Wheat Laddu.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 cup Wheat Flour<br />
1/4 cup Gram Flour<br />
11/2 cup Sugar Powder<br />
1/4 cup Grated Coconut<br />
1/4 cup Dry Fruit almonds, raisins, kaju etc<br />
1 cup Ghee<br />
Preparation:<br />
1. Heat the ghee.<br />
2. Put both the flours in the hot ghee and allow it to cook for a while. <br />
3. When done, put the grated coconut and the sliced dry fruit in the mixture.<br />
4. Now put the sugar in the mixture and stir thoroughly. <br />
5. Take off from the heat quickly and mold it into small balls or laddus. Or you may choose to put the mixture in an oil greased plate and later cut them into small pieces.<br />
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Besan ki Barfi <br />
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Ingredients : <br />
Besan or Gram flour 1 kg<br />
Sugar 1 kg<br />
Water 1/2 liter<br />
Ghee 1 kg<br />
For garnishing: Pistas, Almonds <br />
Preparation : <br />
1. Fry the gram flour or besan in ghee on low flame for about 30 mins till it turns pink and ghee separates. <br />
2. Mix sugar and water into a syrup. <br />
3. Add this syrup to the besan and mix well. <br />
4. Pour this mixture into a greased tray.<br />
5. When it cools cut into cubes and garnish with pistas and almonds.<br />
<br />
Kheer<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
Milk – 1 liter<br />
200 grams of rice ( soak in water for half an hour before cooking)<br />
Sugar<br />
Finely chopped cashew nuts<br />
4 to 5 pieces of cardamom<br />
Few raisins<br />
Preparation:<br />
Pour milk in a pan and allow it to boi on a flame low. Stir the milk continuously till it thickens a little. Put some sugar in the milk and continuously stir it until the sugar melts in the milk.<br />
Then put the rice in to the milk and boil it for sometimes while stirring is at intervals. When the rice is cooked, garnish it with chopped cashew nuts, cardamoms and raisins.<br />
<br />
Have a very happy Diwali.Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-63331376933791160112011-09-18T15:11:00.001+05:302011-09-18T15:12:18.640+05:30The Story of Navratri<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/18/548.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/18/s_548.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='273' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />India is a land of colorful and vibrant festivals. Among all festivals, Navratri stands as a prominent occasion, celebrated by people across the length and breadth of the country. It is celebrated in different ways, but the spirit remains the same - to commemorate the victory of good over the evil. Maa Durga and her avatars are worshipped all through the nine days of the festival. Special pujas are performed to invoke the deity and seekevery blessings. Every puja should be culminated with aarti.<br /><br />The story associated with Navratri can be found in various Hindu religious texts like Markandeya Purana, Vamana Purana, Varaha Purana, Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, Devi Bhagavatam and Kalika Purana. The story of Navratra is the symbolic message of the fact that however glorious and powerful the evil become, at the end it is the goodness that wins over all of the evil.<br /><br /> The story is based on the life of two sons of Danu, named Rambha and Karambha who performed several austerities to gain extreme power and authority. When their prayers became deeper and austerities exceptional, the King of the heaven, God Indra got perturbed. Out of fear, he killed Karambha. Rambha, who came to know about his brother’s death, became all the more stubborn, to win over the Gods. He increased the intensity of his austerities and finally got several boons from gods like great brilliance, beauty, invincibility in war. He also asked a special wish of not being killed by either humans or Gods or Asuras.<br /><br />He considered himself immortal and started freely roaming in the garden of Yaksha where he saw a female-buffalo and fell in love with her. To express his love, Rambha disguised in the form of a male-buffalo and copulated with the female buffalo. However, soon after that a real male buffalo discovered Rambha mating with the she-buffalo and killed him. As the pyre of Rambha was organized, the female-buffalo, who was copulated with him jumped into the funeral pyre of Rambha to prove her love. She was pregnant at that time. Thus, a demon came out of the pyre, with the head of a buffalo and body of a human, and thus he was named Mahisasura (the buffalo headed demon).<br /><br />Mahishasura was extremely powerful. He defeated the gods and the demons and acquired power over the entire world. He even won over the heaven and threw the gods out. He captured the throne of Indra and declared himself to be the the lord of the gods. The gods, led by Brahma approached Vishnu and Shiva and evaluated them of the situation. In order to save the Gods, the three supreme deities, combined to the take the shape of a terrible form and this was goddess Durga. All the gods granted this Goddess power and all the supreme weapons they had. Thus Durga is called the brilliance of all the Gods.<br /><br />When Mahisasura saw her, he was mesmerized by her beauty. Her fell in love with her and proposed to marry her. The goddess agreed to marry him only if he could defeat her in the battle. Thus began a scary and terrible battle between both, which continued for nine days. Finally, on the last day, Durga took the form of Chandika and stood over the chest of Mahishasura and smashed him down with her foot. She then pierced his neck with her spear and cut off his head off with her sword, and killed him. It is the day when VijayaDashmi is celebrated.<br />Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-42156356235954245452011-09-11T20:23:00.001+05:302011-09-11T20:23:53.242+05:30The Clever Ganesha.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/11/1858.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/11/s_1858.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />According to the Hindu mythology, in the snow-capped mountains of Kailash, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the heavenly couple, live with their two divine children, Ganesha and his brother Karthik.<br /><br />This is the story of those days when both Ganesha and Karthik were very young.<br /><br />Ganesha, the elder son was full of patience and wisdom. Karthik, on the other hand, was impish and playful. But both of them were intelligent and powerful. The two brothers had much difference in their physique. Ganesha had a massive body with a big belly and an elephant's head, young Karthik was a beautiful boy with strong limbs. They were kind to everybody and were loved by all.<br /><br />Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati loved their two children and the children, in turn, were devoted to their parents. <br /><br />But one day, as the other Gods talked about the qualities of the brothers, a doubt arose in the mind of one of them."Who is the wiser of the two brothers?" he asked the others "Ganesha or Karthik?". Soon, all of them were talking and expressing their opinions about this matter. But no one could surely decide. As they racked their brains to solve the issue, one of the Gods got an idea!<br /><br />“I know whom to ask!” said he. As others looked at him inquisitively, he continued, "Lord Brahma. He is the Creator of the world. He should know the answer, so let's ask him! He can surely solve this suspicion". Without any more delay, the Gods rushed to Brahma. Brahma was surprised to see all the deities, together.<br /><br />"Such a lovely surprise! What brings you here?"<br /><br />The Gods told Brahma about their doubt. "O lord Brahma, who is the wiser of the two brothers?” asked they, "Ganesha or Karthik?"<br /><br />"I do not know!" replied Brahma. "I am the maker of mankind, not heavenly beings. Ganesha and Karthik were born to the celestial gods Shiva and Parvati."<br /><br />The Gods were upset. Even the Brahmaji did not know! They would not be able to have an answer, after all.<br /><br />Looking at their gloomy faces, Lord Brahma decided to help them. "It is true that I do not know who is the wiser of the two brothers", he thought. "But I can perhaps find it out with the help of my son Narada".<br /><br />Narada, the son of Lord Brahma, was a naughty sage who was well-known for creating disputes. Wherever he went, he created problem. But if he got away with all his mischief and without getting cursed it was only because the trouble he caused usually ended on a happy note.<br /><br />"Narada, help the Gods. Find the answer to their question," said Brahma after explaining the problem. "Certainly, Father," replied Narada, and his eyes twinkled naughtily, smelling an opportunity to play a prank.<br /><br />Using his magical powers Narada speedily flew over the white mountains of Kailash and, in no time, arrived at the divine house of Shiva and Parvati. He was warmly welcomed by the heavenly couple.<br /><br />"0 Shivji, rescuer of the Universe!, O Devi Parvati !" Narada praised the lord. "I thank you for your warm welcome. It is indeed a pleasant joy and an honour to see you both together as the Divine couple".<br /><br />Everyone knew about Narada's playful nature. Shiva understood that Narada was up to some mischief. "Now tell us the truth. I can sense some mischief brewing in your mind. What is the prank you are planning to play on us?" he said jokingly.<br /><br />Narada pretended to be hurt. "You greatly insult me, Lord Shiva! I have just come here to give you a gift," he said in a sorrowful voice.<br /><br />"A gift for me? What is it Narada?” asked Lord Shiva. Narada, hearing the eagerness in Shiva's voice smiled to himself in delight. He produced a golden mango and gave it to the Lord. Gehrig"A mango!" exclaimed Shiva. "Now don't say you travelled all the way here to give me this fruit."<br /><br />"It is no ordinary fruit, my Lord," Narada replied. "The taste of this fruit is said to be sweeter than nectar. This is the divine fruit of knowledge that bestows eternal wisdom to those who eat it."Is it so?" asked Shiva, looking at the mango. He then asked his wife Parvati to have a bite.<br /><br />"No, stop!" cried Narada. "What are you doing?"<br /><br />Lord Shiva looked at Narada curiously. "Why? Do you want me to eat it without letting Parvati taste it? I am going to share it with her". Saying so, he turned to share the fruit with his wife, Goddess Parvati.<br /><br />Narada shook his head in disagreement. "That cannot be done, Lord Shiva. It is a magical fruit, blessed by the sages and Gods. It is not possible to cut the mango into pieces. It should be eaten by a single person as a whole fruit".<br /><br />The divine couple looked at each other. They were confused. Then Lord Shiva shrugged. "If that is the case, let my better half have this fruit. Here Parvati, you can have this whole mango," he said, offering the mango to his wife.<br /><br />Parvati was surprised. "Oh no, I don't want it! You are my husband. How can I eat it without you having a taste of it?" she refused. Both Lord Shiva and Narada requested her to eat the fruit but Parvati gradually declined. "Instead, let one of our children have the fruit," she suggested.<br /><br />"But, how is that possible?" asked Narada cautiously. "There is one fruit and two children. Who should be given the fruit - Ganesha or Karthik?" <br /><br />While the elders were talking, Ganesha and Karthik appeared in Kailash. They saw that their parents and Sage Narada were having some serious talk on something. Then Karthik noticed something yellow and round in Narada's hand.<br /><br />“What is Uncle Narada having in his hand?” Karthik asked to Ganesha. Ganesha was similarly interested. <br /><br />“ This is a magical mango, Karthik, "Narada replied, as he heard Karthik's question. "I gave it to your Father but he wanted your Mother to eat it. But she won't have it. She wants to give it to one of you".<br /><br />"A magical mango? I love mangoes!” shouted Karthik, "I want it! I want it!".<br /><br />"No, no, it should come to me. I love mangoes too! I'm the eldest son and the right one to eat the fruit of knowledge," argued Ganesha. Soon the brothers started fighting.<br /><br />The divine parents were perplexed. This is nothing but a mountain out of a molehill. Lord Shiva looked at Narada. "So this is why you came to Kailash! I knew it! I knew there was something in your mind. Well done Narada, you have finally played the trick. This is why you came here. But now that you have created trouble, please solve it. You decide to whom the mango should go to," he said firmly.<br /><br />Narada was delighted that his plan was working so well. "Why don't we could have a competition to settle the matter?" he said with a twinkle in his eye.<br /><br />"The children agreed to Narada’s suggestion. Lord Shiva thought over the matter.<br /><br />"All right, then." said he, "We'll have a contest. Whoever of you goes around the world three times and returns first will get the fruit," he said to his children.<br /><br />Hearing this, Karthik immediately mounted his vehicle, the peacock. His brother Ganesha was slow and fat. Karthik laughed to himself in delight. He was very certain that he would win. Ganesha too, understood that his vehicle, the mouse, could not compete with the peacock's speed. So he thought for a second. Suddenly, he got a thought. Ganesha smiled to himself.<br /><br />Karthik flew around the world stopping at all temples and sacred spots on the way and offering his prayers. To his astonishment, he found Ganesha at every major stop. Karthik was puzzled. How did Ganesha manage to be so fast?<br /><br />The reason was the razor-sharp intelligence and the great wisdom of Ganesha. Back in Kailash, Ganesha remembered that his parents Shiva and Parvati represented the entire universe. Without delay, the young elephant-headed god walked around his parents with great devotion, folding his hands.<br /><br />"Why are you circling us Ganesha?" asked Lord Shiva."I'm your son and to me, you two make up my whole world. Why should I go further to win the contest?" replied Ganesha.Shiva was pleased with his elder son's smart answer and gave the magical fruit to him.<br /><br />When Karthik returned after his trip, he understood what had happened and accepted the dominance of his clever brother Ganesha. The Gods found the answer to their doubt. They praised and blessed Ganesha. Narada laugh quietly. His father had praised him too. So did the Gods.<br /><br /><br /><br />Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-7359732603306123002011-09-04T11:54:00.000+05:302011-09-04T11:54:45.350+05:30Where there is a will there is a way.<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/03/5115.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/03/s_5115.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Once upon a time there was a little girl called Meera. One day she returned from her school very sad. She went to her room, kept her bag on the table and lied down on the bed, crying loudly. Her mother heard her crying and came to find out. <br />
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“I have failed in two subjects,” and saying that she started crying again. Her mother tried to console her, but Meera wouldn’t listen.<br />
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In the evening when her father returned, he tried to explain to her. “Do your best in the next exam and you will get good marks,” he told her.<br />
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For the next two days, Meera refused to go to school. In fact, she thought of never going to school again. On the third day, as she sat gazing out of the window, she saw a sparrow trying to build a nest on a tree. She saw it bring sticks and leaves in the nest and then fly away to get more. Every time the wind blew, the leaves and sticks would get blown away. But this did not stop the sparrow from building her nest and by evening, she was able to complete her nest.<br />
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As Meera sat watching the sparrow, her mother came and stood beside her. “What are you looking at?” she asked her.<br />
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Meera told her all about the sparrow.<br />
<br />
“If a sparrow can succeed in her task with courage, don’t you think you can succeed if you study hard?”<br />
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The next morning, Meera dressed up to go to school. As she was leaving, she saw the sparrow sitting by its nest. Waving it goodbye, she left for school. She studied well and cleared her exam with flying colors. <br />
<br />
<br />
Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-72191672393472224132011-08-27T21:51:00.000+05:302011-08-27T21:51:17.622+05:30'The Special Day' by Wes Fessler<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/27/2341.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/27/s_2341.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Darcy had a lot of friends, and she was very friendly too. She shared each day with all her friends a happy word or two. She always had a joyful smile and pleasant things to say, but she did not seem caring on her best friend's special day.<br />
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Her best friend's name was Gina. They were close as friends could be. They always shared their birthdays. They were just like family. But this year Gina's birthday somehow slipped from Darcy's mind, and all the day at school, Darcy did not seem very kind.<br />
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She did not want to tell Darcy her birthday was that day. She thought she should remember. It had always been that way, but somehow Darcy didn't know, and as the day went by, she made her poor friend Gina feel so sad that she could cry.<br />
<br />
At lunch, they sat together with some friends to eat their food, but Darcy seemed too busy to catch on to Gina's mood. Then after school when Darcy called, she still forgot the day! She wanted to tell Darcy, but did not know what to say.<br />
<br />
The two hung up the phones, and just then Darcy realized it was her best friend's birthday, and she had been caught surprised. "Oh dear," she said while staring at the calendar she had. The date was clearly marked and that made Darcy feel so bad.<br />
<br />
"I've been so selfish! Gina must think I don't even care. I have to make this better. I've been terribly unfair!" So Darcy rode her bike down to the store to get a gift.<br />
She hoped it would not be too late to give her heart a lift.<br />
<br />
She hurried to her house, feeling ashamed that she forgot. Though she did care for Gina, she had not shown it a lot. When Gina opened up the door, she saw her best friend there; still sweating from the bike ride, and with really messy hair.<br />
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"I'm sorry I forgot, but happy birthday," Darcy said. So pleased to see her, Gina said, "come in you silly-head!" They both enjoyed a party, and they quickly made amends. They grew yet ever closer as the very best of friends.<br />
<br />
So Darcy learned, that just to care, was not all caring was. What matters most is showing care in what one says and does.<br />
Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-5085847467933861282011-08-23T13:44:00.000+05:302011-08-23T13:44:08.649+05:30The Lion and the Fox.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/23/253.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/23/s_253.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Once upon a time there was a lion that grew so old that he was unable to kill any prey for his food. So, he said to himself, I must do something to stay my stomach else I will die of starvation.<br />
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He kept thinking and thinking and at last an idea clicked him. He decided to lie down in the cave pretending to be ill and then who-so-ever will come to inquire about his health, will become his prey. The old lion put his wicked plan into practice and it started working. Many of his well-wishers got killed. But evil is short lived.<br />
<br />
One day, a fox came to visit the ailing lion. As foxes are clever by nature, the fox stood at the mouth of the cave and looked about. His sixth sense worked and he came to know the reality. So, he called out to the lion from outside and said, How are you, sir?<br />
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The lion replied, I am not feeling well at all. But why don't you come inside?<br />
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Then the fox replied, I would love to come in, sir! But on seeing, all foot prints going to your cave and none coming out, I would be foolish enough to come in.<br />
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Saying so, the fox went to alert the other animals. <br />
Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-74725797689724487732011-08-20T22:33:00.001+05:302011-08-20T22:35:29.293+05:30The 'Fl' BlendConsonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'Fl' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child about the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
Words for the Fl blend:<br />
<br />
Flash, Flashlight, Flawless, Flew, Flight, Flips, Flops, Floor, Flung, Fly. <br />
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Reading for the 'Fl' blend: <br />
<br />
I saw a fly at night.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/20/2051.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/20/s_2051.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
I took my flashlight,<br />
To catch a fly at night,<br />
I saw it fly up high,<br />
I saw it sit on the floor,<br />
I flashed my flashlight,<br />
To see if it flew anymore!<br />
Then, I saw it take flight,<br />
And do flawless flips and flops,<br />
Until I flung my flashlight,<br />
To find it lying flat on the floor. <br />
<br />
Take care. <br />
<br />
Click <a target="_blank" href="http://thetinytoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/a.html">here</a> to view the phonics program from the beginning.<br />
<br />
Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-24782773690219724392011-08-15T22:09:00.000+05:302011-08-15T22:09:34.284+05:30The Two Goats.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/15/2307.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/15/s_2307.jpg' border='0' width='236' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Once a goat was grazing on the grassy slope of a hill near a stream. It decided to taste the grass on the hills across. A narrow log served as a bridge across the stream. While crossing the bridge, it saw another goat coming from the other side. The bridge was so narrow that only one animal could cross the bridge at a time.<br />
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The first goat said to the other, "let me pass first".<br />
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"You let me pass first" snapped the other goat.<br />
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They started threatening each other and finally got into a terrible fight, so savage, that they lost their balance and fell into the stream.<br />
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The other goats grazing on the hills saw this spectacle and learnt a lesson.<br />
<br />
After few days, two other goats faced the same problem. They happened to be on the bridge at the same time facing each other and unable to move further.<br />
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One goat said to the other, "I will sit down and you can step over my body."<br />
<br />
"Thank you. Next time, I'll sit down and let you cross first."<br />
<br />
Thus, both of them were able to cross the bridge safely.<br />
Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-91944975963089684302011-08-13T23:23:00.000+05:302011-08-13T23:23:43.633+05:30The 'Cl' Blend.Consonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'Cl' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child about the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
Words for the 'Cl' blend:-<br />
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Clad, Claim, Classy.<br />
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Clear.<br />
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Cling, Climb, Climate, Cliff.<br />
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Cloud, Clown, Closet, Clothes, Cloak, Clock.<br />
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Clue.<br />
<br />
Reading for the 'Cl' blend.<br />
<br />
Clingy, the Cloud. <br />
<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/13/2682.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/13/s_2682.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Clingy, the little cloud, loved to climb up high. <br />
Clingy, the cloud loved to clown in the sky.<br />
<br />
Clingy, the cloud had clothes in his closet,<br />
His clothes gave us clues on our doorstep.<br />
<br />
When clad in a grey cloak, he made rains,<br />
But when clad in white, he made a classy sight.<br />
<br />
Clingy, the cloud claimed to clear our days,<br />
Clingy, the cloud, changed the climate his ways.<br />
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Clingy, the cloud, followed no clocks,<br />
Clingy, the cloud, stood tall over cliffs and rocks.<br />
<br />
Clingy, the little cloud, loved to up climb high. <br />
Clingy, the cloud loved to clown in the sky.<br />
<br />
Take care.<br />
Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-90349487966485682872011-08-07T21:06:00.000+05:302011-08-07T21:06:38.812+05:30Who will 'bell' the cat?<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/07/1860.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/07/s_1860.jpg' border='0' width='217' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
The mice, once called a meeting to decide on a plan, to free them of their enemy, the 'cat'. At least, they wished to find some way of knowing when the cat was coming, so they had time to run away.<br />
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Indeed, something had to be done, for they lived in such constant fear of the cat's claws that they hardly dared stir from their dens, by night or day.<br />
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Many plans were discussed, but none of them were good enough. At last, a very young mouse got up and said, "I have a very simple plan, but I know it will be successful. All we have to do is to hang a bell around the cat's neck. When we hear the bell ringing, we will know immediately that our enemy is coming." <br />
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All the mice were much surprised that they had not thought of such a plan before. But in the midst of the rejoicing over their good fortune, an old mouse arose and said, "I will say that the plan of the young mouse is very good. But let me ask one question, who will bell the cat?"<br />
<br />
Moral of the story: Some things are easier said, than done!Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-20315646776967098942011-08-06T14:55:00.001+05:302011-08-06T15:11:33.325+05:30The 'Bl' blend.Consonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'Bl' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child about the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
Words for the 'Bl' blend:-<br />
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Black, Blanket, Blast, Blame.<br />
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Bleat, Blew.<br />
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Block.<br />
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Blizzard, Blink.<br />
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Blue, Blush, Bluff.<br />
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Reading for the 'Bl' blend :-<br />
<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/06/292.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/06/s_292.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Baabaa black sheep wanted to bleat all night,<br />
Baabaa black sheep blew his blue nose tight.<br />
<br />
Baabaa black sheep wore a blue blanket,<br />
Baabaa black sheep wanted to block the blizzard with might.<br />
<br />
When Baabaa black sheep heard a big blast,<br />
Baabaa black sheep did not blink a while.<br />
<br />
When Baabaa black sheep saw a blocked road,<br />
Baabaa black sheep blamed the black smoke.<br />
<br />
Baabaa black sheep loved to bluff,<br />
Baabaa black sheep liked to blush. <br />
<br />
Baabaa black sheep wanted to bleat all night,<br />
Baabaa black sheep blew his blue nose tight.<br />
<br />
Take care.<br />
<br />
Click <a target="_blank" href="http://thetinytoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/a.html">here</a> to view the phonics program from the beginning.Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-31041422965714401862011-07-30T12:44:00.000+05:302011-07-30T12:44:25.282+05:30The 'Sw' Blend.Consonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'Sw' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child that the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
Words for the 'Sw' blend:<br />
<br />
Swallow, Swamp, Swarm, Sway<br />
Sweet, Sweat, Swept<br />
Swim, Swine, Swift.<br />
<br />
Reading for the 'Sw' blend:<br />
<br />
Sweety, the sweet Swallow.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/07/30/11.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/07/30/s_11.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Sweetie was a sweet little Swallow<br />
Who loved to swing all day.<br />
<br />
She loved to see the fish swim,<br />
She liked sound of the swine.<br />
<br />
She loved the swamps,<br />
She liked the insect swarms.<br />
<br />
She loved to see the branch sway,<br />
She liked the feel of the swift wind.<br />
<br />
She loved to sweat in the sun,<br />
She liked the sweet light of the moon.<br />
<br />
Sweetie was a sweet little swallow,<br />
Who let her heart swept away. <br />
<br />
Click <a target="_blank" href="http://thetinytoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/a.html">here</a> to view the phonics program from the beginning. <br />
<br />
Take Care.Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-19237283358382103542011-07-24T14:42:00.000+05:302011-07-24T14:42:38.840+05:30The Foolish Lion and the Clever Rabbit.<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/07/24/424.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/07/24/s_424.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
This is one of the most famous stories of the Panchatantra. Once upon a time, there lived a cruel lion by the name of Bhasuraka, in a dense forest. He was very powerful, ferocious and arrogant. He used to kill the animals of the forest to gratify his hunger. This action of the lion became the cause of worry for the animals of the forest. They were worried that after sometime none of them would be left alive. They discussed this problem among themselves and came upon the decision to hold a meeting with the lion. They wanted to arrive on a friendly settlement with the lion and to put an end to the problem.<br />
<br />
One day, as per the plan, all the animals of the forest gathered under a big tree. They invited the King Lion to attend the meeting. In the meeting, the representative of the animals said, "Your Majesty, it is our happiness, that we got you as our king. We are all the more happy that you are attending this meeting”. The King lion thanked them and replied, “What is the matter? Why we have gathered here?”<br />
<br />
All the animals started looking at each other. They were recollecting enough courage to start the topic. One of the animals stood up and said, "Sir, its natural that have to kill us for your food. But, killing more than what is required is not a good approach. If you go on killing the animals without any purpose, very soon a day will come, when there will be no animal left in the forest.” The king lion roared, “So what do you want?”<br />
<br />
One of the animals replied, “Your Majesty, we have already discussed the problem among ourselves and have come upon a solution. We have decided to send one animal daily to your den. You can kill and eat it, the way you like. This will also save you from the trouble of hunting.” The lion replied, “Fine. I agree to this proposal, but make sure that the animal must reach to me in time, otherwise, I'll kill all the animals of the jungle." The animals agreed to this proposal.<br />
<br />
From that day onwards, daily an animal was sent to the lion to become his food. The lion was very happy to have his food right before him without taking any pains of hunting. So, everyday it was the turn of one of the animals. Once, it was the turn of a rabbit to go to the lion’s den. The rabbit was old and wise. He was unwilling to go, but the other animals forced him to go. The rabbit thought of a plan which would save his life and the lives of other animals of the forest. He took his own sweet time to go to the Lion and reached the lion’s den a little late than the usual time.<br />
<br />
The Lion was getting impatient on not seeing any animal by the time. The Lion got extremely furious when he saw a small rabbit for his meal. He swore to kill all the animals. The rabbit with folded hands hesitatingly explained, “Your Majesty. I am not to be blamed for that. Actually, six rabbits were sent to make your meal, but five of them were killed and devoured by another lion. He also claimed to be the king of the forest. I have somehow escaped to reach here safely."<br />
<br />
The king lion howled in great anger and said, “Impossible, there cannot be another king of this forest. Tell me. Who is he? I’ll kill him. Take me to the place, where you saw him.” The intelligent rabbit agreed and took the Lion towards a deep well, filled with water. When they reached near the well, the rabbit said,” This is the place where he lives. He might be hiding inside.”<br />
<br />
The Lion looked into the well and saw his own reflection. He thought it was the other Lion. The Lion was furious and started growling. Naturally the image in the water, the other Lion, was also equally angry. In order to kill the other Lion, he jumped into the well. The Lion darted his head against the rocks and drowned in the deep well.<br />
<br />
The wise rabbit, with a sigh of relief went back to other animals and narrated the whole story. All the animals got happy and praised the rabbit for his wit. Thus, the jubilant rabbit saved all the animals from the proud Lion and they all lived cheerfully thereafter.<br />
<br />
Moral: Intelligence is superior to physical strength.Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-32843634940644998362011-07-23T15:39:00.000+05:302011-07-23T15:39:12.045+05:30The 'St' Blend.Consonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'St' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child that the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
Words for the 'St' blend:<br />
<br />
Statue, Stadium, Stage, Stars, Stairs, Stared, <br />
<br />
Steady<br />
<br />
Still, Stiff, Stinky.<br />
<br />
Stone, Stockings, Stopped, Stomach, Stood<br />
<br />
Style.<br />
<br />
Reading for the 'St' blend:<br />
<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/07/23/513.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/07/23/s_513.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Stony, the stone statue.<br />
<br />
Stony was a stone statue,<br />
Who stood steady all day.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, he stood in the stadium,<br />
Sometimes, he stood on stage.<br />
<br />
Somedays, Stony stared at the stars,<br />
Somedays, Stony stopped by the stairs.<br />
<br />
Standing still and stiff all day, <br />
Would give poor Stony a stomach ache!<br />
<br />
Although Stony loved stinky stockings,<br />
He loved to live in Style.<br />
<br />
Stony was a stone statue,<br />
Who wanted to be a part Stonehenge someday!<br />
<br />
Take care. <br />
<br />
Click <a target="_blank" href="http://thetinytoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/a.html">here, </a>to follow the phonics program from the beginning.Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-72003752364572013742011-07-16T23:33:00.001+05:302011-07-16T23:36:36.950+05:30The Powerful Rabbit!<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/07/16/2820.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/07/16/s_2820.jpg' border='0' width='239' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
There was a rabbit who enjoyed playing tricks on other animals.<br />
<br />
One day as he was walking in the woods, near the sea he came across a huge elephant pulling out and eating leaves from a tree.<br />
“How are you, Mr Elephant?” he called out. “ My, how much you eat!”<br />
“That’s because I’m so big,” replied the elephant. “ Small animals like you don’t need much food, but large and powerful animals like me need a lot!”<br />
“Large you certainly are!” said the rabbit, “but powerful…?”<br />
“You don’t think I’m powerful?” asked the elephant, sounding surprised, and also a little annoyed.<br />
“I’m sure you are" said the rabbit. "But are you more powerful than me?”<br />
The elephant thought he had not heard right.<br />
“Powerful? You?”<br />
“Yes, me.”<br />
The elephant doubled up with laughter.<br />
“You’re laughing because you don’t know how strong I am,” said the rabbit. “If you let me tie a rope around your middle, I’ll drag you into the sea.”<br />
“Drag me into the sea?!” laughed the elephant. “Hoo-hooo – hoooo!!<br />
Well, go ahead! Tie a rope around me and let me sea how far you can pull me!”<br />
The rabbit tied a thick rope around the elephant’s body.<br />
“When you feel a tug on the rope, be ready to pull,” he said, “or you’ll be dragged into the sea before you know what’s happening!”<br />
“Please don’t pull too hard,” mocked the elephant.<br />
The rabbit ran to the seashore with the other end of the rope.<br />
He saw a whale swimming some distance away, and called out to it. When the whale drew near he said, “Mr Whale you’re so big but are you strong?”<br />
“I’m the strongest animal on earth!” bellowed the whale.<br />
“I’ll show you how wrong you are,” said the rabbit.” Let me tie this rope around your middle.”<br />
“And then?”<br />
“I’ll drag you ashore.”<br />
The whale doubled up with laughter.<br />
“All right, go ahead,” he giggled.” Tie your rope around me and pull me out!”<br />
The rabbit tied the rope securely around the whale’s middle. Then he ran ashore and rushing into the woods, hid behind a tree and shouted,<br />
“PULL!”<br />
The elephant, intending to throw the rabbit high into the sky to frighten him, wrapped his trunk around the rope and gave a mighty heave upwards. The whale countered with a tug that almost brought the elephant to his knees. The two animals, hidden from each other’s sight<br />
by the trees in between, marveled at the strength of the rabbit. They pulled and heaved and exerted their strength to the utmost, but neither could get the better of the other. Finally the rope broke and the two animals fled in opposite directions.<br />
<br />
From then on whenever the elephant saw the rabbit, he would quickly hide himself or run away, to the great amusement of the rabbit.<br />
<br />
Adapted from a West African Folktale.Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-85749409797701580332011-07-10T12:43:00.001+05:302011-07-10T12:45:02.446+05:30The earth is breaking up! ( Jakata tales )<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVrunrHOKcc/ThlQ6H-cxaI/AAAAAAAADz8/4bxbMpDpHiI/s1600/1710.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVrunrHOKcc/ThlQ6H-cxaI/AAAAAAAADz8/4bxbMpDpHiI/s320/1710.png" /></a></div>A hare resting under a banyan tree had a premonition of doom. “What would happen to me if the earth were to break up?” he wondered! Suddenly, there was a ‘thud’ followed by a rumbling sound. “It’s happened,” thought the hare, “the earth’s breaking up!” He jumped up and ran. “Why are you running?” asked a hare who crossed his path. “The earth’s breaking up!” shouted the hare. “You’d better run too.” The second hare ran so fast he overtook the first. “The earth’s breaking up, the earth’s breaking up!” he shouted to other hares he passed. Soon thousands of hares were scampering through the forest.<br />
<br />
Other animals got caught in the panic. The word spread from mouth to mouth, and soon everyone heard about the earth breaking up! It was not long before the whole jungle was on the move. Reptiles, insects, birds and four-footed animals fled in wild disorder, and their cries of terror filled the air.<br />
<br />
A lion standing on a hillock, saw the animals coming and wondered what was going on. He hastened down and positioning himself in front of the horde, and called for it to stop. His commanding presence stemmed the rising tide of panic among the animals. “The earth is breaking up!” shrieked a parrot, alighting on a rock near him. “I heard it from the monkeys."<br />
<br />
The monkeys said they had heard it from the tigers, who said their informants were the elephants, who gave the buffaloes as their source. When the hares were finally implicated they pointed one to another until the one who had started it all was identified. “What makes you think the earth is breaking up?” the lion asked him. “I heard it cracking with my own ears”, squeaked the hare, trembling in fear.<br />
<br />
The lion investigated the sound the hare had heard and found that it had been caused by a large coconut falling from a tree. It had landed on a pile of rocks, causing a minor landslide. “Go back to your homes,” said the lion to the animals who had been running away, and who were now looking very foolish. “The earth’s safe. And next time, check a rumour before acting on it."Krupa Sinroja Dalalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04982118904901944047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4867882918855384855.post-76760642350434810992011-07-08T23:07:00.001+05:302011-07-23T14:40:06.923+05:30The 'Sp' blend.Consonant clusters or blends are two or three consonants that appear together in a word with each consonant retaining its sound when blended.<br />
<br />
Write the blend 'sp' set of words on individual cards. Underline the blend in every word. Explain your child that the set of two letters that needed to be spelt together or blended and help him in reading the first few words. Once he is comfortable reading individual words and recognizes the reading pattern, encourage him to read the story under your supervision. <br />
<br />
The 'Sp' family of words:<br />
<br />
space span spare spark spank spat.<br />
<br />
speak spear, speed speck speech spell spend spent.<br />
<br />
spike spill spin spine spire spirit.<br />
<br />
spoil spoke sponge spoon sport spout.<br />
<br />
spur spy.<br />
<br />
The 'Sp' blend:<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/07/08/2789.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/07/08/s_2789.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Spacy, the space spoon. <br />
<br />
Spacy, a spoon in space,<br />
Took part in a special race,<br />
Got ready on a sparkling day<br />
And was sporty all the way. <br />
<br />
But in a spoilt temper,<br />
He had a spat with the spear, <br />
He spanked the sponge, <br />
And threw sparks all along. <br />
He spied the spout,<br />
And spilled water from his mouth. <br />
<br />
But Spacy, the spoon in space,<br />
Was not a spoil sport.<br />
In the end, he spoke in a manner,<br />
That pleased the spanner,<br />
He fixed the spear,<br />
He sparkled the sponge.<br />
<br />
This is how Spacy, the spoon, ended his day. <br />
<br />
Take care. <br />
<br />
To follow the phonics program from the beginning, click <a target="_blank" href="http://thetinytoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/a.html">here.</a>Seema Karechahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13712198476937589555noreply@blogger.com2