The junior journal: vol X (2024-2025) Monthly E-Newsletter of Salwan Junior School (FEBRUARY 2025)

Dear Readers,

Every year, school plans an exhaustive list of curricular and co-curricular activities to provide best of the opportunities to our young learners to foster the young minds with curiosity, innovation and critical thinking. "The Junior Journal" aims to showcase and celebrate the exceptional events and achievements of the students learning at SJS, Naraina. The publication is released on a monthly basis, providing a comprehensive overview of the notable accomplishments, events and projects undertaken by the learners in a month, within our educational community. This monthly journal will serve as a platform to recognize and applaud the outstanding efforts of the students.

Stay tuned every month to witness, discover and explore the remarkable talents and accomplishments of the learners at SJS with deep and meaningful learning experiences which are curated keeping in mind the skills, attitudes and beliefs of the children at this age.

Happy Reading!

Nurturing Wellness, Ensuring Growth

"Health is the greatest gift."

Salwan Junior School, in collaboration with Health Set Go, conducted a medical check-up for students from February 17–19, 2025. Medical professionals assessed essential health parameters, ensuring early detection of concerns. Parents actively supported the initiative by providing consent. Committed to holistic development, the school prioritizes preventive healthcare, fostering a safe and healthy environment for all young learners

Inter-Class Mathematics Quiz: A Battle of Wits"

"Mathematics is the key to understanding the world and unlocking new possibilities."

Salwan Junior School hosted the Inter-Class Mathematics Quiz for Classes I and II on February 7, 2025, fostering excitement and learning. Students competed across engaging rounds, showcasing problem-solving skills, teamwork, and quick thinking. Class I B and Class II B emerged victorious. With interactive challenges and audience participation, the event was a resounding success, celebrating the joy of mathematics.

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Guardians of the Earth: A Call for Action

"The Earth does not belong to us; we belong to the Earth."

The students of Class I presented a mesmerizing Annual Presentation on February 15, 2025, at the school foyer, emphasizing environmental conservation. The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony and an inspiring dance-drama depicting pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Through poetry, enactments, and songs, students urged responsible action. A special news segment highlighted urgent environmental issues. The Principal and guests applauded the young performers for their impactful message. With 100% participation, the event instilled a deep sense of responsibility in students, inspiring them to be guardians of the Earth. Together, let’s protect our planet!

Unleashing Ideas: Hindi Extempore Activity

"Confidence comes not from always being right but from not fearing to be wrong."

An engaging In-Class Hindi Extempore activity was held on February 7, 2025, for Classes III to V, encouraging students to think spontaneously and express themselves confidently. Students picked topics randomly and shared creative stories and reflections. The non-competitive environment fostered participation, while teachers provided guidance and motivation. The session successfully boosted students’ confidence and communication skills, leaving them proud of their efforts.

Salwan Junior Excels in International GK Olympiad

"The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."

The International GK Olympiad (IGKO), organized by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), was held on October 15, 2024. Thirty-two students from Classes III to V participated, demonstrating their awareness and intellect. Their impressive performance reflected their curiosity and dedication to learning. Congratulations to all participants for their achievements

Salwan Junior Soars to Victory at MCD Science Fair

"Science is not only a disciple of reason but also passion."

Salwan Junior School participated in the MCD Science Fair on February 19, 2025, at Nagar Pratibha Vidyalaya, Karampura, securing the first position among 80 schools. Students Shivansh Kawatra, Samarth Kalra, Ridhaan Khurana, and Ayesha Afroz impressed judges with innovative exhibits on language and mathematics. Guided by teachers Miss Rijak Kaur Anand, Miss Payal, and Miss Geeta Choudhary, they showcased creativity and confidence. Congratulations to our students and mentors!

Exploring Nature’s Beauty at Amrit Udyan

"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."

On February 20, 2025, Class IV students visited Amrit Udyan, experiencing its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant floral displays. They explored a variety of plants, learning about biodiversity and conservation. The visit was both educational and refreshing, fostering curiosity and appreciation for nature. Students thoroughly enjoyed the serene surroundings, making it a memorable and enriching experience.

Engaging Learning Through Interactive Activities

"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."

To strengthen foundational skills, students engaged in an interactive recap of CVC words, writing vowel-based words on slates as dictated by the teacher. Additionally, an engaging number line activity on forward and backward counting enhanced their experiential learning. These hands-on activities helped students grasp concepts effectively while making learning enjoyable. The children actively participated and thoroughly enjoyed the session.

Playing with the Ball – A Fun Learning Activity

"Play is the highest form of research."

Nursery students participated in an exciting activity, "Playing with the Ball," where they practiced rolling, throwing, and aiming the ball. The highlight was targeting the ball into the basket, enhancing their coordination and motor skills. With enthusiasm, children celebrated each successful shot, making learning an enjoyable experience. This engaging session encouraged active participation and boosted their confidence.

Salwan Junior Excels in National Science Olympiad

"The science of today is the technology of tomorrow."

The National Science Olympiad (NSO), organized by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), was held on December 3, 2024. Forty-nine students from Classes III to V participated, showcasing their scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills. Their outstanding performance reflected dedication and hard work. Congratulations to all participants for their achievements.

Salwan Junior Shines in Spell-Bee Competition

"Spelling is the art of making words speak clearly."

A Spell Competition was organized on January 31, 2025, where students showcased their linguistic skills and spelling prowess. Their dedication and hard work were evident in their outstanding performance. Congratulations to all achievers for their impressive success!

Art Mela – Unleashing Superheroes Through Creativity!

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."

Our young artists showcased their imagination at the Art Mela – Superhero Theme on February 14 2025. From Super Me to Tree Saver, students from Classes II to V designed unique superheroes, celebrating creativity and self-expression. Their vibrant artworks, filled with colors and innovation, were displayed in classes, earning admiration and special appreciation from teachers.

Spontaneous Speeches: Young Voices Shine!

"Speech is the mirror of the soul; as a man speaks, so is he."

An English Extempore was organized on February 28, 2025, as part of the Friday activity for Classes I and II. Class I students picked things from their bags and spoke for one minute, while Class II students spoke on topics given by the teacher. This activity enhanced their speaking skills, encouraging confidence and self-expression. The young participants impressed everyone with their spontaneity and enthusiasm.

February Arts Extravaganza: A Month of Creativity and Celebration

"Art is the universal language that connects us all."

The month of February was filled with festive joy and creativity at our school, as students celebrated Mahashivratri . Through vibrant activities and artistic projects, they celebrated this important event. Their enthusiasm and creativity were a testament to the school’s dedication to promoting cultural values and fostering artistic expression.

Shining Achievements of Our Young Champions

Insights from Teacher's Desk

Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits in Young Children

A lifetime of good health is established by forming appropriate eating habits in childhood. Even though young children may be finicky or reluctant to try new foods, careful preparation may make eating healthily a joyful and rewarding experience.

1. Present Variety at an Early Stage

From a young age, expose them to a variety of foods, textures, and flavours. Providing diversity helps children develop a more adventurous palate in addition to ensuring they receive a balanced diet.

2. Set an Example

Youngsters frequently mimic the actions of grownups. They are more inclined to eat healthily when they observe their parents or other caregivers doing so. Develop the practice of consuming the same healthful foods that you would like them to.

3 .Involve Kids in Food Selection

Give kids a say in meal planning and preparation. Allow them to help with basic kitchen duties, take them food shopping, or let them choose fruits and veggies. Curiosity and pride in their eating choices are fostered by this involvement.

4. Pay Attention to the Presentation

Bright colours and interesting shapes appeal to children. Use cookie cutters to cut out sandwiches or cheese slices, or make a rainbow plate to present fruits and veggies in visually interesting ways.

5. Promote Unrestricted Exploration

Don't force children to eat certain meals. Serve little portions of new foods alongside familiar favourites to persuade children to take a "no thank you bite" instead. Repeated exposure without compulsion often leads to acceptance.

6. Create Mealtime Schedules

Children learn to pay attention to their hunger and fullness cues when meal and snack times are regular. To promote mindful eating, establish a pattern and serve meals in a peaceful, distraction-free setting.

7. Prevent Access to Unhealthy Choices

Stock up on fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and meats to make healthy choices the go-to option at home. Restrict sugary drinks and processed snacks to occasional indulgences rather than daily necessities.

8. Explain the Advantages of Nutritious Foods

Explain how meals benefit their bodies in basic, relevant terms. Say, for instance, "Milk strengthens bones" or "Carrots improve vision." Young minds find significance in nourishment because of these relationships.

9. Include the whole family in mealtimes

In addition to exposing kids to well-balanced meals, family meals foster a sense of unity. During this time, set an example of good eating practices and promote food-related discussions.

10. Honor Progress Rather Than Perfection

Celebrate little accomplishments, such as finishing a healthy snack or trying a new food. Children who receive positive reinforcement are more self-assured and are inspired to keep making wise decisions.

11. Promote Water Instead of Sugary Drinks

Encourage milk and water as the main drinks. Juices and other sugary drinks should be avoided as they might cause tooth decay and excessive calorie intake.

12. Show tolerance for finicky eaters

At some points in childhood, being picky about what they eat is natural. Continue providing a range of foods without getting frustrated, and have faith that kids' tastes will develop over time. Avoid labelling them "picky," since this could incite the behavior.

School’s Contribution in Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits

Schools are essential in helping kids develop good eating habits. Students' dietary preferences and attitudes about food can be greatly influenced by the implementation of planned activities and programs. Here are a few successful tactics:

1. 21-Day Fruit and Vegetable Challenges: Giving kids a 21-day challenge promotes eating fruits and vegetables every day. This program encourages kids to develop long-term healthy eating habits in addition to introducing a range of produce into their meals. Students can monitor their intake and maintain motivation during the challenge by using log sheets and short recommendations.

2. Planning Field Trips to Community Kitchens and Langars: Students can gain personal experience in the preparation and delivery of large quantities of food by organizing field trips to community kitchens and langars. These visits emphasize the value of reducing food waste and the significance of community service. Students develop respect and become more conscious of food waste when they observe the work required to feed large crowds.

3. Setting Up Dedicated Water and Fruit Breaks: Including designated periods for water and fruit breaks throughout the school day highlights the value of staying hydrated and eating fruit on a regular basis. This approach guarantees that children get the nutrients they need and normalizes healthy snacking, which improves focus and general wellbeing.

4.Providing Nutritious Mid-Day Meals: Ensuring that kids have access to wholesome, tasty mid-day meals guarantees that they will get the nutrients they need to promote their development and education. Healthy eating improves energy levels, academic achievement, and cognitive function. Nutritionists and schools can work together to create kid-friendly and healthful diets.

5. Teaching About Food Waste Reduction: Students can better comprehend the social and environmental effects of food waste by incorporating lessons and activities centred on food waste. Initiatives such as "Fight Food Waste Toolkit" offer materials and exercises to inform and motivate students to cut down on food waste in their daily lives.

6. Celebrating National Nutrition Week (1st - 7th September) – Planning such activities in schools contributes to the development of healthier habits in kids, which guarantees a more promising and active future. This can be accomplished by planning various activities, such as putting fruit cutouts in a basket that emphasize the value of a healthy diet, the vital elements our bodies require, and the part food plays in our general wellbeing. By giving them a customized menu that the entire family followed and ate meals together, not just students but the entire family can take part. Youngsters can tell stories like "The Hungry Caterpillar," and they can all work together to make a collage of junk and good food items.

By integrating these strategies, schools can create an environment that promotes healthy eating habits and responsible attitudes toward food consumption among students.

Conclusion: It takes time, tolerance, creativity, and consistency to help young children develop healthy eating habits. Caregivers may prepare children for a lifetime of wholesome choices and a better lifestyle by modelling good eating habits and cultivating a positive relationship with food. Keep in mind that progress, not perfection, is the aim—every little step matters!

Reena Kataria, Faculty at SJS

Insights from Young Minds of SJS

Theme- Exam Stress Management

Conquer Exam Stress: Your Guide to a Calm and Focused Study Period

Exam season. Just the phrase can send shivers down your spine. The pressure to perform, the mountain of material to cover, and the fear of failure can create a potent cocktail of stress. But it doesn't have to be that way. With the right strategies, you can navigate exam preparation with confidence and a calm mind.

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you reduce stress and maximize your study potential:

1. Plan and Prioritize:

Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Don't try to cram everything in at the last minute. Break down your syllabus into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each subject. A well-structured schedule provides a sense of control and reduces anxiety.

Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important topics and focus on them first. Don't waste time on less crucial material until you've mastered the essentials.

Use Time Management Techniques: Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break) can help you stay productive and prevent burnout.

2. Optimize Your Study Environment:

Find a Quiet and Distraction-Free Space: A dedicated study area can significantly improve focus. Minimize distractions like social media, television, and noisy environments.

Ensure Proper Lighting and Ventilation: A well-lit and well-ventilated space can enhance concentration and reduce fatigue.

Organize Your Study Materials: Keep your notes, textbooks, and other study materials organized and easily accessible. This will save you time and reduce frustration.

3. Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Well-being:

Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and stress management.

Eat Healthy and Balanced Meals: Nourish your body with nutritious foods that provide sustained energy. Avoid excessive caffeine, sugary drinks, and processed foods.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins with mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects. Even a short walk or light workout can make a difference.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

Take Regular Breaks: Don't try to study for hours on end without breaks. Short, frequent breaks can help you stay refreshed and focused.

Engage in Hobbies: Make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time with friends and family. This can help you de-stress and recharge.

4. Manage Your Thoughts and Emotions:

Challenge Negative Thoughts: Recognize and challenge negative thoughts that contribute to stress. Replace them with positive and realistic affirmations.

Practice Mindfulness: Focus on the present moment and avoid dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Talk to Someone: Don't hesitate to talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, or counselor about your concerns. Sharing your feelings can help alleviate stress.

Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others: Focus on your progress and avoid comparing yourself to others. Everyone learns at their own pace.

* Remember that Exams are Not the Be-All and End-All: Exams are important, but they don't define your worth or potential. Maintain a healthy perspective and remember that there are many paths to success.

5. Strategies for During the Exam:

Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to settle in and calm your nerves before the exam begins.

Read the Instructions Carefully: Make sure you understand the instructions before you start answering questions.

Manage Your Time Effectively: Allocate your time wisely and don't spend too much time on any one question.

Stay Positive and Confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities.

By implementing these strategies, you can reduce stress, enhance your focus, and perform to the best of your ability during exam preparation. Remember that taking care of your physical and mental well-being is just as important as studying hard. Good luck!

Chaarvi Sain, Class V, Co authored by - google Gemini

Fuel Your Brain: Eat Smart for Better Concentration!

Have you ever found yourself staring at a book, reading the same sentence over and over, but nothing seems to stick? Or do you feel sleepy right after lunch, struggling to focus in class? Believe it or not, the secret to sharper concentration isn’t just in studying harder—it’s in what you eat! Just like a car needs the right fuel to run smoothly, your brain needs the right food to stay alert and active.

How Does Food Affect Your Brain?

Your brain is like a high-powered machine, working 24/7. But to function at its best, it needs the right nutrients. Eating junk food can make you feel sluggish and unfocused, while the right foods can improve memory, attention, and energy levels.

So, what are the best eating habits for laser-sharp concentration? Let’s break it down!

Superfoods for Super Focus

1. Breakfast: The Brain’s Power Booster

• Skipping breakfast is like trying to use a phone with no battery—it just won’t work properly!

• Eat foods like whole grains, eggs, yogurt, fruits, or nuts to kickstart your brain.

• Avoid sugary cereals and pastries, which give a quick energy boost but leave you feeling tired later.

2. Hydration: Your Brain’s Secret Weapon

• Did you know that even mild dehydration can make you feel tired and foggy?

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your brain fresh and active.

• Skip sugary sodas and energy drinks—they only give a short burst of energy before a big crash.

3. Brain-Boosting Snacks

• When hunger strikes between meals, choose smart snacks!

• Nuts & Seeds – Almonds and walnuts are packed with brain-friendly omega-3s.

• Fruits & Berries – Blueberries and oranges give a vitamin boost for sharper thinking.

• Dark Chocolate – Yes, chocolate! But choose dark chocolate, which helps with focus.

4. Say NO to Junk Food

• Processed snacks, chips, and sugary drinks may taste good, but they slow down your brain.

• Too much sugar leads to an energy crash, making it harder to pay attention in class.

• Instead, choose natural foods that keep your energy steady.

5. Smart Eating Schedule

• Eating too much at once can make you feel sleepy, while skipping meals can make you dizzy and tired.

• Eat small, balanced meals throughout the day to keep your brain powered up.

Eat Smart, Stay Sharp!

Aanya Suryavanshi, Class V

Reflections & Insights: Voices from the Parent Desk

From Free-Range to Digital Age: How Parenting Has Transformed from 1990 to 2025

Ah, the 90s! A time when childhood was defined by scraped knees, carefree play, and family meals filled with long, meaningful conversations. A time when playdates weren’t scheduled but happened spontaneously in neighbourhood parks, and entertainment wasn’t at our fingertips but awaited eagerly on TV screens for a limited time. As we fast-forward to 2025, parenting has evolved drastically, shaped by technology, changing lifestyles, and a shift in family structures. Let’s take a nostalgic walk down memory lane and see what lessons from the past we can bring into the present.

The Art of Bonding: Then and Now

Back in the day, family bonding was woven into the fabric of everyday life. Parents and children played indoor games like Ludo, Carrom, and Chess, or engaged in outdoor activities like kho-kho and cricket with cousins and friends. The extended family—grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings—acted as a natural buffer, resolving minor childhood conflicts before they ever reached their parents.

Today, with nuclear families becoming the norm and single-child households increasing, parents have to shoulder the emotional and psychological needs of their children alone. The support system that once existed in large families has diminished, making parenting a more complex, hands-on role.

Meals Were Conversations, Not Just Eating Time

Family dinners in the 90s were a cherished time—whether it was sitting around the dining table or forming a cosy circle on the floor. Meals were more than just eating; they were a gateway to sharing stories, discussing cricket matches, debating politics, and passing down family values. Without realizing it, children absorbed knowledge and wisdom through these everyday discussions.

Fast forward to today, even when families do manage to sit together for meals, screens have invaded the table. Conversations have been replaced by scrolling, and the simple act of sharing a meal has lost its magic. We need to bring back the tradition of tech-free family dinners, where genuine human connection takes precedence over digital distractions.

From Playgrounds to Pixels

Ask any 90s kid where they spent their evenings, and the answer would likely be, “At the playground!” Parks and empty streets were bustling with children playing cricket, badminton, or simply running around inventing their games. Losing was common, but so was learning to get back up and try again. The playground was a school of life, teaching resilience, patience, and teamwork.

Now, the concept of ‘play’ has shifted indoors. Instead of running outside, children are glued to tablets and gaming consoles. While technology has its benefits, the lack of physical activity has led to rising concerns about health, patience, and social skills among today’s children.

Entertainment: Limited Yet Meaningful

In the 90s, entertainment was a special treat. With just a handful of television channels—Cartoon Network, Doordarshan, and Nickelodeon—kids waited eagerly for their favorite shows. If nothing good was on, they had no choice but to find something else to do—read a book, play outside, or engage in a creative activity.

Today’s children have access to an endless stream of entertainment. YouTube, Netflix, and gaming apps provide non-stop content, making it easy for parents to hand over a device to keep them occupied. However, this convenience comes with its downsides—shorter attention spans, less real-world engagement, and reduced patience for non-digital activities.

The Pressure Cooker of Modern Parenting

Another stark contrast between then and now is the pressure on children. In the 90s, childhood was a time of exploration, curiosity, and free play. While education was important, there was room for children to discover their strengths and passions at their own pace.

Today, children are caught in an academic and extracurricular rat race, often pushed to excel in every area—sports, arts, academics, and beyond. Parental expectations, coupled with social competition, have turned childhood into a high-stakes game where there is little room for failure or self-exploration. As a result, many children struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, and a fear of making mistakes.

The Rise of Sharenting

One of the most significant shifts in modern parenting is the rise of 'sharenting'—parents sharing excessive information about their children on social media. In the 90s, parents were more private about their children's achievements, believing that excessive public praise could hinder growth or invite unnecessary comparisons. However, today’s parents document every milestone online, from a child’s first steps to academic successes. While this might seem harmless, it creates a permanent digital footprint that children may not appreciate when they grow up. Not all children may want their baby photos or personal achievements displayed for the world to see. This constant exposure can sometimes lead to privacy concerns, potential security risks, and even anxiety in children as they become aware of their online persona before they fully understand it themselves.

Bringing the Best of the Past into the Future

While times have changed and technology is here to stay, we can still borrow some of the best elements of past parenting styles to create a healthier balance for our children. Here’s how:

• Tech-Free Family Time: Reinforce device-free dinners and designated tech-free hours to encourage real conversations.

• Encourage Outdoor Play: Create opportunities for children to play outside, interact with peers, and develop resilience.

• Teach Life Skills: Just like the 90s, kids learned basic chores and independent problem-solving, today’s children should also be encouraged to take responsibility for small tasks.

• Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Limit screen time and focus on meaningful, engaging activities that foster creativity and connection.

Conclusion

Parenting has undeniably transformed over the years, but the core values of love, presence, and connection remain timeless. By blending the best of both worlds—embracing the advantages of modern life while holding onto the warmth of old-school parenting—we can ensure that our children grow up to be happy, well-rounded individuals. Let’s bring back a childhood filled with laughter, real-life experiences, and genuine human connections. After all, some things from the past are too precious to leave behind.

Hashmeet Kaur, Mother of Riaan Singh from class II-B

For primary students, here are two great Educational Websites.

Funbrain – A playful and interactive website offering educational games, books, and videos that enhance math, reading, and problem-solving skills.

BBC Bitesize – Provides interactive lessons, videos, and games covering a wide range of subjects, helping young learners build strong foundational skills.

Enchanting Tales for Young Minds: Children's Literature Picks

"Arthur's Teacher Trouble" by Marc Brown

In this engaging story, Arthur faces the challenges of preparing for a spelling contest under the guidance of his strict teacher, Mr. Ratburn. The book offers valuable lessons on diligence, overcoming anxiety, and the importance of preparation.

"Ten Birds" by Cybèle Young

This beautifully illustrated book presents a fable about ten birds attempting to cross a river, each devising unique solutions. It imparts the value of problem-solving, creativity, and diverse thinking—skills essential for academic assessments.