Our centers have been all abuzz the last couple of months. From a splashy summer party to a talent show, Raksha Bandhan, Yoga Day, World Music Day, Harela Parv, and Independence Day, our events were all about being confident, healthy, happy and whole.
The Summer Mela, with its food stalls, games, a movie corner, and a wildly popular rain dance, was a blast. The trainees used tokens bought with their own money, to encourage decision-making and ownership. “Didi, aaj mujhe bahut mazaa aaya, sabse jyada mazaa mujhe rain dance mein aaya! (Didi, I had so much fun today, especially at the rain dance!),” said Aditya, 18, beaming even as the music wound down.
Friendship Day was all about celebrating friends like family. We shared stories, made cards and exchanged friendship bands, all of which help build social skills and express affection in simple, age-appropriate ways.
The Talent Show was everyone’s chance to shine. Preparing for and putting up music, taekwondo, yoga and drama performances is exciting in itself. Behind the scenes, it helps children build confidence and communication. As always, a rousing audience of peers, teachers and parents (who danced to a Nepali track!) cheered them all the way. Trophies for everyone because effort matters as much as achievement.
On Harela Parv, we set out to the local nursery to connect with the earth. In the process, we also practised life skills by exchanging money and communicating preferences, which for some kids involves using gestures or AAC apps like AVAZ. Sensory-rich, real-world experiences like this help children, especially disabled ones, develop cognition and language development.
On Yoga Day, we relaxed and regulated body and mind. Rishabh, 12, said he enjoyed the “very calming” session of stretching and meditation.
It’s moments like these through which our children and trainees develop confidence, form friendships, and discover just how capable they really are. Feeling included, understood, and proud of who we are – surely that’s the most powerful celebration of all.
