The Junior Journal: Vol XI (2024------ 25) Monthly E-Newsletter of Salwan Junior School (March 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!

Annual Day Presentation – Class Kindergarten

The Kindergarten students of Salwan Junior School captivated the audience with their enchanting Annual Day presentation, The Secret of the Jungle, a rhythmic blend of storytelling, melodious songs, and vibrant dances.

The program commenced with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an exciting journey into a magical forest where animals talk and teach valuable life lessons. The young performers beautifully brought the jungle to life, donning colourful costumes and embodying various animals, including a peacock, elephant, deer, monkey, sparrow, and parrot. Through engaging dialogues and graceful performances, they highlighted the importance of nature, unity, and environmental conservation.

The story followed a lost child who meets friendly jungle animals, each showcasing their unique characteristics through lively rhymes and dance sequences. The animals come together to address an environmental issue—pollution caused by human negligence. The heartwarming message of sustainability and preserving forests resonated with the audience, reinforcing the significance of Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land).

The grand finale featured a lively dance performance, followed by a touching conclusion where the child, upon finding his way home, pledges to protect nature and spread awareness. The event concluded with the inspiring words, "Protect Our Jungles. Protect Our Future."

Annual Presentation by Class Nursery – A Grand Celebration of Learning!

The Annual Presentation by Nursery students was held on 13th March 2025 in two enthusiastic batches – first for Nursery A parents, followed by Nursery B parents. The event was a resounding success, with 100% participation, showcasing the confidence, creativity, and joy of the little learners.

The theme of the presentation revolved around a fun-filled journey through the world of vegetables, where students performed a delightful musical skit – "The Great Vegetable Contest". The stage was transformed into a vibrant vegetable garden, where little performers dressed as pumpkins, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, and more showcased their unique qualities through dialogues, songs, and dance.

The highlight of the event was the "Veggie Dance Party," where students danced to energetic songs like "Aloo Bola Mujhko Kha Lo" and "Aha Tamatar". The catchy tunes and synchronized moves filled the hall with joy as parents clapped along, enjoying the adorable performances. The cheerful veggie characters introduced themselves one by one, sharing their nutritional benefits in the most entertaining way.

The nursery students showcased their speaking, dancing, and expressive skills with remarkable confidence, leaving parents in awe of their progress.

The event concluded with a grand finale, where all students came together, singing and dancing to the "Veggies on Parade" song, celebrating the importance of healthy eating and teamwork. Parents joined in the applause, appreciating the hard work of the children, teachers, and school staff in making the event a grand success.

Celebrating a Milestone: Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony

The Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony was a heartwarming celebration of growth, learning, and new beginnings. Our young graduates, dressed in their robes, radiated confidence and joy as they marked the successful completion of their early learning journey.

The event was filled with proud smiles, happy tears, and a deep sense of accomplishment for children.

This milestone is a testament to the unwavering support of parents, the dedication of our teachers, and the enthusiasm of our little learners. As we look back on their journey—from their first day of school to this proud moment—we celebrate not just their achievements but also their curiosity, perseverance, and love for learning.

Celebrating Success: Salwan Junior School's Achievers Day

Salwan Junior School's recent celebration of Achievers Day, showcased not only academic prowess of its students but also resilience, discipline, and dedication. Students demonstrated remarkable determination, overcoming challenges to shine in various fields.

The students who had consistently shown improvement in their academic performance were recognized for their hard work and determination, while those who had consistently excelled were acknowledged for their exceptional talent and dedication. The all-rounders were praised for their versatility and ability to excel in multiple areas, be it academics or co-curricular activities.

Apart from academic excellence, the school also recognized the achievements of students in various other fields. The students who had excelled in dance, music, arts, sports, IT, and public speaking were acknowledged for their talent and hard work. The ceremony also recognized the importance of good behavior and discipline in the classroom, with certificates being awarded to students who had demonstrated exemplary behavior throughout the academic year.

The ceremony concluded with a motivational speech by the School Principal, Ms. Sonia Wadhwa who congratulated the students on their achievements and motivated them to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives.

The Achievers Day ceremony was a great success, with everyone coming together to celebrate the hard work and achievements of the students. It was a proud moment for the school, and it encouraged all students to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.

A Milestone Achieved: Class V Graduation Ceremony 2025

The graduation ceremony for Class V students was held on Saturday, 22nd July 2025, in the school premises. The event was a momentous occasion, marking the successful completion of primary education for our young graduates. Class V B: Ms. Nisha Oberoi, former Headmistress of Salwan Naraina, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest for the first session. Class V A: Mr. Mukhtamay Mandal (Chief Guest) and Mr. Lalit Yadav (Guest of Honour) – for the second session.

The program began with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a captivating classical dance recital. School Head, Mrs. Sonia Wadhwa, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, advising the students to remain grounded, confident, and courageous as they step into the next phase of their academic journey. The Class III and IV choir presented a melodious Saraswati Vandana, setting the tone for the felicitation ceremony. Each graduating student was warmly welcomed with a tilak, and their citation was read aloud by their Class Teacher, highlighting their role model, life aim, and a special good luck message.

Each student received a personalized folder containing comments from their curricular and co-curricular teachers, as well as a good luck memento. Chief Guest, Ms. Nisha Oberoi (for the first session) and Mr. Mukhtamay Mandal and Mr. Lalit Yadav (for the second session) inspired the students to follow the path of righteousness and face the world with confidence, imparting valuable life lessons.

Students and parents shared their heartfelt feelings, experiences, and memoriesof their journey at Salwan J unior School, Naraina, making the occasion even more special. The graduation ceremony concluded with a refreshing gesture, as students were presented with a box of goodies to relish and enjoy. The event was an emotional and overwhelming experience for teachers, students, and parents, creating lifelong memories. We bid farewell to our Class V graduates, wishing them all the best for their future endeavors!

Educational Trip to Jaipur - A Cultural Immersion

The educational trip to Jaipur for Class IV & V students of Salwan Junior School was thoughtfully structured to provide a rich understanding of the city's cultural tapestry and historical significance. The itinerary prioritized visits to key sites that illuminate Jaipur's heritage.

The visit to the City Palace served as a primary lesson in the royal history of Jaipur. Students explored the complex, gaining insights into the lives of the Maharajas, the evolution of the city, and the preservation of cultural traditions.

The iconic Hawa Mahal introduced students to the social customs and architectural ingenuity of Rajput society. Its unique design, intended for royal women to observe the city while maintaining privacy, highlighted the era's social dynamics and architectural innovation.

This astronomical observatory at Jantar Mantar provided a fascinating look into the scientific advancements of historical India. Students learned about the sophisticated instruments used for astronomical observations, showcasing the intellectual and scientific achievements of the time.

A visit to Amer Fort offered a powerful lesson in the military history and regal grandeur of the region. The fort's impressive architecture and strategic location underscored the power and artistry of the Rajput rulers.

While offering a contrast to the Rajput-era sites, the Birla Temple provided insights into the ongoing religious and spiritual life of Jaipur, allowing students to experience Hindu traditions and temple culture.

Beyond the monuments, the trip included experiences that touched on local culture. The evening shopping activity introduced students to Jaipur's vibrant arts and crafts, allowing them to witness the city's living cultural traditions.

The trip's educational impact was significant, as these historical and cultural site visits aimed to provide contextual learning, fostering a deeper understanding of history and culture beyond textbooks. By connecting students with the past in a tangible way, the trip made history more relevant and engaging, while also promoting cultural sensitivity and respect for traditions through interaction with various cultural expressions.

Report- IEO (International English Olympiad)

IEO (International English Olympiad) organized by SOF (Science Olympiad Foundation) was conducted on 08.11.24. 76 children from Class III- V participated in the exam. The results are as follows:

Welcoming Young Learners – Nursery Orientation Day 2025

The Nursery Orientation Day was held on 24th March 2025, welcoming parents to a new academic journey. Headmistress Ms. Sonia Wadhwa introduced the school’s philosophy, “Service Before Self,” emphasizing holistic development. A lamp lighting ceremony marked the start, followed by a detailed presentation by Coordinator Ms. Sarita Dahiya on school policies, daily routines, and co-curricular activities. Parents met the faculty and staff, fostering trust and transparency. An interactive session encouraged questions and shared expectations. The event concluded with discussions with class teachers, assuring parents of the school’s commitment to nurturing young learners and building a strong parent-school partnership.

Strengthening School- Parent Partnership – Orientation Programme 2025 at Salwan Junior School for new parents

The school also held an Orientation Programme on 24th March 2025 for new admission parents of Classes KG to V. The session aimed to familiarize parents with the school’s vision, policies, academic structure, and expectations for the 2025–26 session.

The teachers welcomed parents and introduced the school’s motto, "Service Before Self," highlighting its commitment to holistic development. Key guidelines shared included school timings, late arrival policy, uniform rules, and communication channels such as the School Almanac, ERP, and Microsoft Teams.

Parents met the teaching staff and learned about co-scholastic offerings, including creative and academic clubs, expert-led sports coaching, and Friday activity days. The assessment structure was explained, covering monthly, periodic, and term-end evaluations.

Parents were also guided on supporting independent learning, limiting screen time, and ensuring safety compliance. The session ended with an open interaction, reinforcing a strong school-parent partnership.

Online Orientation Programme: KG - V Parents

The Orientation Programme for KG - V old student parents was held online on March 26th, 2025. Ms. Sonia Wadhwa and the teachers welcomed the parents and outlined the school's vision, "Service before Self," along with details about the academic planner, school routine, curricular activities, assessment cycle, Mid Day Meal, and other guidelines.

Essential school information, including timings, uniform guidelines, and communication channels, was provided. The program concluded with tips for parents on fostering holistic development at home, such as encouraging storytelling and interactive play, followed by a Q&A session. The orientation emphasized teamwork between parents and teachers to create a conducive environment for the child's holistic development.

Reimagining Early Learning: Insights from the Healthy Planet Festival of Learning 2025

Ms. Sarita Dahiya attended the Healthy Planet Festival of Learning 2025, a workshop focused on innovative early childhood education. The festival emphasized child-centered approaches, play-based learning, and the importance of listening to children.

Dr. Swati Popat's session highlighted the need for holistic education, advocating for environments that encourage curiosity and independent thinking. Dr. Haeny Yoon explored the connection between play and literacy, emphasizing play as a medium for creative and critical engagement. Dr. Tran Templeton introduced the "Wait, Watch, and Wonder" approach, encouraging educators to value children's perspectives. The Healthy Planet Learning Lab Team presented intergenerational learning strategies, showcasing the benefits of community-based programs in fostering literacy and emotional intelligence.

Ms. Sarita Dahiya learned that early childhood education should be dynamic, adaptable, and rooted in children's experiences. The sessions underscored the importance of shifting from teacher-led instruction to a child-centered approach, where children are active participants in their learning. The festival reinforced the significance of play, listening, and community engagement in cultivating lifelong learners.

A Canvas of Creativity!

Our students have truly showcased their artistic talents this term with a diverse and impressive range of creations! The art room has been a vibrant hub of imagination, as students explored various techniques and subjects. From colorful and expressive renditions of beloved **cartoon characters** to the intricate patterns of **Warli art**, the variety was astounding. We even saw the playful creation of **stick puppets**, bringing stories to life.

Superhero fans brought their favorite characters to the page with dynamic **superhero** illustrations, while others demonstrated their observational skills through detailed **sketches of wild animals**. Some students delved into portraiture, creating thoughtful **portraits of religious figures and famous people**, capturing their essence with skill. Finally, the beauty of the natural world was evident in the serene and expansive **landscape** artworks.

The dedication and creativity displayed by our students are a testament to their hard work and the inspiring guidance of our art teachers. Well done to all our young artists!

Ms. Sonia Wadhwa Contributes to Educational Dialogue

On March 24th, 2025, Ms. Sonia Wadhwa, the School Principal, participated in a significant Round Table Discussion organized by Benesse India Pvt Ltd at The Park, Connaught Place. The event focused on "Beyond Rote Learning," exploring strategies to shift educational practices towards critical thinking and problem-solving.

The discussion featured a keynote address by Ashok Pandey, followed by a panel discussion where leading educators and school principals, including Ms. Wadhwa, shared their experiences and insights on implementing project-based and competency-driven learning. The dialogue extended to innovative approaches to assessment, aiming to measure creativity and analytical skills.

Ms. Wadhwa was among the esteemed speakers who contributed to the dynamic exchange of ideas, addressing the topic of Reimagining School Education for the 21st Century. The event fostered a collaborative environment for education leaders to discuss the future of learning and how to inspire, rather than just inform, students.

Teacher's Corner

How to Channelize energy of young children

Children are naturally active and inquisitive. Unlimited energy of children can become the driving force of learning, imagination, and emotional health if they are guided in the correct direction and If they are not, guided properly their energy creates problems, behaviour issues, frustration, and agitation. As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to engage children in activities that make them a part of something important which allows them to direct and utilise their energy in a constructive way. Allowing them to have flexible and controlled channels for their energy keeps them active both physically and mentally active and helps in holistic development.

The School aims at channelizing children’s energy and maintaining it by involving them in all these activities and many more thereby also reducing screen time and preparing the future generation which is both physically and mentally strong enough to face the world.

1. Exercise

Physical games allow a child to burn off excess energy and develop their motor skills. Running, jumping, hopping, and engaging in organized sport activities like gymnastics, football, table tennis, softball etc. all help mould them physically. Simple activities that enhance strength and coordination skills are obstacle race, hopscotch.

2. Art and Craft

Children can express themselves creatively by doing crafts, painting, and drawing. Their energies can be channelized in a positive way and unfold their creativity and also develop fine motor skills by involving them in doing crafts, colouring, clay moulding,

3. Music and Dance

Since children love music, incorporating it into their lives can be fun and fulfilling. Singing the tune that they love to dance to, playing a simple musical nstrument, or singing in harmony with others, dancing on good songs are some of the activities to enable them to vent out their energy and build their rhythm, coordination, and skills.

4. Role- playing and storytelling

Imaginative play is a child's life. Role-playing games, puppets, and stories help children to unleash their thoughts and feelings in a healthy manner. It engages them while building confidence, creativity, and language skills.

5. Nature Study

In the outdoors, young children can watch, explore, and burn energy in a healthy way. Activities like Gardening, nature walks, treasure hunts not only make them aware of the environment. It also provides them hands on experience and develops problem solving skills. It also linked with improving attention span and reduces symptoms of attention deficit disorder.

6. Yoga and Meditation

Educating a child in easy breathing exercises, meditation, or easy yoga postures relaxes a child both physically and emotionally. All these interventions enhance better emotional regulation, concentration, and hyperactivity control, particularly in hyperactive children.

7. Assisting with Simple Tasks

Giving children tasks suitable for their age group to do, such as watering plants, toy organization, or assistance in the kitchen under supervision, makes them responsible and active. By so doing, they are learning self-restraint, time management, and the importance of working as a team.

8. Brainteasers and Puzzle Games

Keeping children occupied with mazes, puzzles, and board games keeps them busy with their mental power. Problem-solving and concentration activities consist of jigsaw puzzles, shape-sorting games, and memory games.

9. Building and Construction Related Activities

Constructing with building blocks, LEGO containers or magnetic blocks allows children to use their creativity and enhance their fine motor skills and spatial reasoning. They are able to construct, experiment, and refine their designs using these organized but enjoyable activities.

10. Science Experiments and Sensory Play

Simple science experiments, such as watching plants grow or making a volcano with vinegar and baking soda, can be the beginning of curiosity and learning simple scientific concepts. Some sensory play activities that provide the freedom to focus and relax and encourage children to use their senses are kinetic sand play, water beads, or slime play.

Providing children with constructive pursuits for their energies fosters their healthy growth and happiness. Through the acquisition of useful lessons in life, a correct blend of intellectual, creative, and physical pursuits keeps the children busy with happy activities. Parents and teachers can mould a self-assured, cheerful, and well-adjusted individual by directing their energies. Providing children with freedom to pursue their interests and a safe environment in which their energies can be directed in an efficient manner is the secret to life-long learning and self-mastery.

Reflections & Insights: Voices from the Parent Desk

A Heartfelt Tribute to Salwan Junior School

As we bid farewell to Class V, we, as parents of Kaira Dhawan (Head Girl 2024-2025), would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the entire SJS family. This message is a humble tribute to the time, effort, and love invested in teaching our children the invaluable lessons for life ahead.

As parents, we always aspire for our children to be extraordinary. While, despite our best efforts, we can only provide the ordinary, it is the school, the principal, and the teachers who add that "extra" to help us realize this dream.

It was seven years ago when our daughter, became a student in Nursery at SJS, Naraina Vihar. At that time, she was a little girl with a limited sense of the dreams she was capable of fulfilling. It was heartwarming to see how the SJS family took her in, and within just a few years, she felt like she had belonged here forever.

Her grades improved, a newfound confidence became the source of her radiance, and she grew into a strong, wise, and sensible young girl. Kaira’s academic excellence has been complemented by a variety of extra-curricular activities, leadership roles, and opportunities that have helped shape her into the dynamic individual she is today.

From being the Class Representative in 2023-2024 to serving as the Head Girl in 2024-2025, these experiences have empowered her to take on challenges with grace and determination. As parents, we are incredibly proud to witness the person she has become—full of promise for the future. She’s become a confident speaker, able to express her thoughts and connect with people effortlessly.

We are delighted to see how the values instilled by Salwan Junior School have shaped Kaira’s character. Simple gestures like greeting everyone with a "Pranaam" reflect the deep respect and values she has imbibed from her school. We are confident that many other parents share the same sentiment.

We also commend your leadership skills and the creativity with which you envision various school activities and events. Whether it’s the Friday activity classes, class presentations, NGO visits, Hunar Mela, excursions, classical dance performances, coaching activities, or podcasts, these not only enhance academic knowledge but also foster empathy and social responsibility in students. The way you celebrate each child's progress, no matter how small, and focus on nurturing the child first, is truly remarkable.

Additionally, we deeply appreciate the consistent feedback, which has been both positive and constructive, providing valuable guidance for Kaira’s growth.

Our deepest thanks to the school’s management, the Principal, all the teachers, and support staff who have played such a pivotal role in Kaira’s life. SJS has truly “transformed” her—both as a student and as a person—and the lessons she has learned here will continue to enrich her life for years to come.

As Kaira graduates from SJS, we are filled with gratitude for the education, love, and support she has received. Being part of this vibrant school community has been a rewarding experience, and we are confident that the school has a strong foundation for overcoming any future challenges.

We wish SJS all the best in continuing to build its legacy of shaping the leaders of tomorrow!

Pooja Dhawan and Kunal Dhawan

Parents of Kaira Dhawan

Grateful Reflections on a Transformative Journey at Salwan Junior School

Salwan Junior School (Naraina Vihar) has played a pivotal role in shaping our child's personality and contributing to her growth and development. Throughout this memorable seven-year journey, we have not had any complaints about the school. From educational trips to Friday activities, it is truly a learner’s paradise.

From the very first day, the faculty and staff at Salwan Junior School have played a significant role in nurturing our children's academic curiosity, fostering her social skills, and encouraging her personal development. In particular, the way the school has balanced academics with extracurricular activities has been instrumental in building both confidence and discipline.

A standout moment for us was when our child participated in the Annual Day function. The support from teachers helped them overcome her fear and deliver a stupendous performance. This experience not only boosted her self-confidence but also highlighted the importance of teamwork and perseverance. It was truly a proud moment for us.

Moreover, the school’s emphasis on values such as respect, responsibility, and empathy has helped shape our child into a considerate young person. We have seen her develop a deeper understanding of social issues and a growing sense of responsibility towards the community, which we believe will guide her through her future endeavours.

In conclusion, our child’s time at Salwan Junior School has been a foundational part of her development, and we will always cherish the positive impact the school has had on her life.

We will forever be grateful for the memories and growth we have experienced as part of this wonderful school community.

Thank you once again for the opportunity to share our thoughts.

Parents of Ayesha Afroz

Engaging Reading Platforms to Inspire Young Minds

1. Dive into Indian Culture and History with Amar Chitra Katha

🔗 [https://www.amarchitrakatha.com/](https://www.amarchitrakatha.com/)

Amar Chitra Katha is a treasure trove of Indian stories, mythology, history, and folktales presented in a colorful comic format. Perfect for primary students, it brings legendary characters and inspiring real-life heroes to life through engaging visuals and simple language. The platform offers digital comics, activity books, quizzes, and educational series that promote reading and cultural learning in a fun way. It’s an excellent tool for developing a love for Indian heritage among young learners.

2. Explore a World of Stories in Many Languages – StoryWeaver

🔗 [https://storyweaver.org.in/en/](https://storyweaver.org.in/en/)

StoryWeaver, an initiative by Pratham Books, is an open-source digital library of beautifully illustrated children's stories in multiple Indian and international languages. Designed for young readers, this platform allows students to read, create, translate, and download age-appropriate stories for free. It supports literacy, language development, and imagination, making it an ideal platform for classrooms and home reading alike.

3. A Creative Space for Young Readers and Writers – Booksie

🔗 [https://www.booksie.org/](https://www.booksie.org/)

Booksie is an online platform where budding writers can publish their own stories, poems, and articles, while readers can explore a variety of original content. While it includes content for all ages, with proper guidance, primary students can use Booksie to read short stories, improve their vocabulary, and even try their hand at writing. It encourages creativity, expression, and a deeper love for storytelling and literature.