Journey of Transformation at TSMS Noida

The ShriRam Millennium Schools (TSMS) hold dear to their heart the core values of Sensitivity, Integrity, Pursuit of Excellence and Pride in One’s Own Heritage. “When I first came across the Little Light School of Joy program, I was happy to see that the Little Light curriculum resonated well with our core values”, shared Ramanjit Nagi, principal at TSMS, Noida. “In different small ways, we have already been teaching children the importance of introspection and believing in the good within yourself. The Little Light books and activities connected very well with our philosophy and was a perfect addition to our curriculum making it much more organized”. The School of Joy program offered tools of self reflection for children.

The School of Joy program was implemented in TSMS Noida with over 24 teachers. Over a year through several hours of coaching, the teachers were taken through a journey of self reflection and self transformation. Mrs. Aparna Rawal, Grade 2 teacher from TSMS Noida shared with us how she was initially apprehensive about implementing such a program in the classroom with her tiny tots. But as she went through the coaching sessions, she gradually saw the difference in herself. “If it can bring a difference in me, then I too can be a motivator to bring a difference in others which in my case are the children in the classroom”, were the proud words of Mrs. Aparna.

The teachers have become more accepting of others’ perspectives. Ms. Ramanjit is happy that now most of the differences get resolved within the staff room and there are little to no conflicts broughts to her attention. The teachers have learnt new tools and strategies to resolve conflicts with more empathy. “I can be assertive and express my opinions while respecting others opinions too” says Mrs. Aparna. The coaching sessions created a safe space for the teachers to speak without fear of judgment. The process of being vulnerable and accepted by people around them has created a stronger bond between the teachers.

The stories in the books brought about so many complex topics in a beautifully illustrated form to the children. The questions after each chapter provide a space for introspection and discussion. It is amazing to see the kind of thinking such young children are capable of. “I have come to know more about the children through these programs as I am now observing and listening more. Children have now started talking about their feelings. Their vocabulary to express their emotions has also increased.” shares Mrs. Rawal.

The children love the meditation videos and ask for them to be used regularly. They even are asking the parents to join them in meditation practice. “We were fortunate”, says the principal, “that we started the School of Joy program during the pandemic. The parents too were able to witness and even participate in the program. We have had a lot of positive feedback from parents. The school of Joy program has a beautiful activity called “Windows to the Soul” in which we acknowledge the positive aspect and offer positive energy to each child. During one of the sessions, the teachers were surprised by the parents offering to conduct this activity for the teachers. It was a moment of joy”. Moments like this offer an opportunity for deepening connections between the school and families. 

The Little Light “School Of Joy” program offers such moments of joy spun together in a beautiful tapestry. It creates a safe space of joy for both the teacher and the child to learn and grow on their own paths of self discovery and transformation.