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“What’s the Plan for This Weekend?” How many times have you heard this question from your child, or even asked it yourself? Weekends are a precious opportunity to step away from the usual hustle of work, school, and errands, and focus on what truly matters—spending quality time together. But let’s be honest: coming up with meaningful, fun activities that don’t require elaborate planning or spending a fortune can sometimes feel overwhelming. The truth is, you don’t need an extravagant plan to strengthen your bond with your child. It’s the little, intentional moments that leave the deepest impact—whether it’s giggling together over a silly game, working as a team to bake cookies, or simply exploring the world around you. Weekend Activities to Strengthen Parent-Child Relationships Let’s dive into some simple, creative, and engaging weekend activities that will leave you and your child closer than ever. 1. Turn Your Kitchen into a Makeshift Cooking Show Cooking together is an activity that’s as fun as it is rewarding. Let your child pick a recipe for the weekend—something simple like pancakes, pizza, or cookies—and work together to prepare it. Take turns mixing, kneading, or decorating, and let your child take the lead where possible. To make it even more exciting, turn it into a mini cooking show. Pretend you’re celebrity chefs narrating the process, or even record a short video for fun. Why it works: Cooking teaches teamwork and responsibility while encouraging creativity. Plus, it ends with a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy! Pro tip: Don’t worry about the mess—embrace it as part of the fun. 2. Go on an Adventure—Right in Your Neighborhood You don’t need to travel far to have an adventure. Explore your neighborhood with new eyes by turning a simple walk into a scavenger hunt. Create a list of things to find, like a red flower, a bird’s nest, or a unique-shaped rock. Alternatively, visit a nearby park and let your child take the lead. Climb trees, collect leaves, or lie on the grass and make shapes out of the clouds. Why it works: Nature has a calming effect on both kids and adults, and spending time outdoors fosters curiosity and mindfulness. Interactive idea: Bring along a notebook for your child to sketch or write about their discoveries. 3. Build Something Together Whether it’s a blanket fort in the living room, a LEGO masterpiece, or a simple birdhouse, building something together is an excellent way to bond. If you’re indoors, gather pillows, blankets, and chairs to create a cozy fort where you can read books, tell stories, or even watch a movie. Build something with your kids If you’re feeling adventurous, try building something outdoors—like a small garden patch or even a simple obstacle course in the backyard using household items. Why it works: Working together to create something fosters teamwork and gives a sense of accomplishment. Pro tip: Let your child’s imagination take the lead—sometimes, their wild ideas make for the best creations. 4. Unplug and Have a Family Game Marathon Turn off the TV, put away the phones, and spend an afternoon playing board games or card games. Classics like Uno, Ludo, or Snakes and Ladders are always a hit, but you can also try cooperative games like Jenga or Charades. For an added twist, create your own family trivia game, with questions about each other’s interests, favorite moments, or funny family memories. Why it works: Games bring in laughter, teamwork, and a little friendly competition, all while creating shared memories. Pro tip: Celebrate wins with small rewards or funny titles like “Game Champion of the Day.” 5. Dive into a Storytelling Adventure Storytelling is a wonderful way to connect with your child’s imagination. Instead of just reading a book, make it interactive. Take turns building a story, with each of you adding a few sentences. For example, your child might start with, “There was a tiger in the jungle…” and you could add, “…who wanted to learn how to fly!” If storytelling isn’t your thing, you can still share stories from your childhood. Kids love hearing about what their parents were like when they were younger—especially the funny or mischievous moments! Why it works: Storytelling sparks creativity, strengthens communication skills, and brings parents and children closer through shared laughter and ideas. Interactive idea: Write or draw the story together as you go, creating your very own book. 6. Create Your Own Mini Adventure Day Transform your home into an adventure zone by creating mini-challenges for you and your child to complete together. For example: Set up an indoor treasure hunt with clues leading to hidden surprises. Turn the living room into a mini obstacle course using pillows, chairs, and blankets. Have a 5-minute “dance-off” with your favorite music. Why it works: These small adventures are easy to set up, encourage movement, and spark excitement. Pro tip: Let your child create some of the challenges—they’ll enjoy being in charge! 7. Learn Something New Together Weekends are the perfect time to explore a new skill or hobby as a team. Try something your child has always been curious about, like origami, simple painting techniques, or even beginner yoga. Learn something new together If you’re feeling adventurous, look up a simple DIY science experiment—like making a baking soda volcano or creating slime. Why it works: Learning something new together creates a sense of partnership and makes the process exciting for both of you. Interactive idea: Document your progress with photos or videos to look back on later. 8. Slow Down with a Themed ‘Pajama Day’ Not every weekend needs to be action-packed. Sometimes, the best bonding moments happen when you slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company. Declare a “Pajama Day” and choose a theme: Movie Marathon: Watch a series of family-friendly movies and snack on popcorn. Book Day: Read your favorite stories together or create a cozy reading nook with pillows and blankets. Spa Day: Try face masks, paint each other’s nails, or give simple massages.

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin How often do students truly connect with what they learn? At Ekya Nava, we believe that education is most impactful when it engages students in the real world. This is why our Outbound Learning Program is at the core of our efforts to create well-rounded learners. It’s not just about stepping out of classrooms but stepping into opportunities for exploration, growth, and discovery. Imagine students learning about sustainability while trekking through nature trails, understanding the intricacies of history in a museum, or gaining hands-on experience with science in interactive centers. These are the moments where learning becomes layered, meaningful, and unforgettable. At Ekya Nava, these experiences are carefully curated to help students connect classroom concepts to real-world applications, while also fostering critical life skills like teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Outbound Learning Program an integral part of our educational philosophy. What Makes the Outbound Learning Program Unique? The Outbound Learning Program at Ekya Nava is built around four key themes: Experiential Learning: Students engage in hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Adventure: Activities that push students to step out of their comfort zones and build confidence. Sustainability: Promoting awareness and responsibility toward the environment. Service: Instilling a sense of empathy and responsibility through community-driven initiatives. Every trip is carefully planned and age-appropriate, ensuring that students derive maximum benefit from these experiences. From local excursions to immersive multi-day adventures, these trips offer students a chance to explore, discover, and grow. Highlights of Ekya Nava’s Outbound Trips Over the years, the Outbound Learning Program has taken students on incredible journeys, each designed to enrich their understanding of the world and themselves. Here are a few examples of the experiences that have left a lasting impact: 1. Exploring History and Heritage Students visited the Rizwan Rezack Indian Paper Money Museum, where they explored the evolution of Indian currency through fascinating exhibits. The trip provided insights into the history and technology behind paper money, sparking curiosity about economics and history. Visit to Rizwan Rezack Indian Paper Money Museum 2. Immersive Science Experiences A visit to the Param Science Experience Center (PARSEC) allowed students to dive deeper into the world of science and technology. Through hands-on exhibits and guided learning, they gained a better understanding of scientific concepts and were encouraged to ask questions and think critically. A visit to the Param Science Experience Center (PARSEC) 3. Outdoor Adventures with Families The parent-child overnight camping experience at Rocksport Kanakapura created unforgettable memories. Parents and children bonded over outdoor adventures and fun activities, strengthening relationships while enjoying nature. The parent-child camping at Rocksport Kanakapura 4. A Journey Through Space A field trip to a planetarium took students on a journey beyond Earth, where they experienced a mesmerizing ceiling show and explored models like Chandrayaan. The science park offered hands-on experiments, sparking their curiosity about astronomy and space exploration. 5. Winter Trekking Adventures The parent-child winter trek to Biddarkatta was an adventurous experience that combined physical fitness and family bonding. Participants trekked through beautiful landscapes and learned about teamwork, resilience, and the great outdoors. The Impact of Outbound Learning The value of outbound learning goes far beyond the trips themselves. These experiences play a key role in shaping students’ academic and personal growth. Building Confidence: Stepping into new environments and taking on challenges helps students build self-esteem and trust in their abilities. Fostering Teamwork and Leadership: Group activities encourage collaboration, communication, and leadership skills, preparing students for future roles. Enhancing Academic Learning: Trips are designed to connect classroom concepts to real-world applications, making learning more engaging and memorable. Encouraging Curiosity: Exploring new places and ideas inspires students to ask questions, seek answers, and embrace lifelong learning. Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility: Activities like nature treks and environmental projects encourage students to appreciate and care for the planet. Transforming Education Through Exploration At Ekya Nava, we see the world as the ultimate classroom. The Outbound Learning Program is a testament to our belief in offering students experiences that empower them to discover, learn, and grow. Through these carefully curated trips, students don’t just connect classroom concepts to the real world—they discover themselves, their passions, and the endless possibilities around them. As one of the leading schools in Bangalore, Ekya Nava is committed to redefining education by providing enriching opportunities that go beyond traditional methods. If you’re looking for a school that values experiential learning and holistic development, Ekya Nava is where the journey begins. Let’s inspire the next generation of learners to explore, engage, and excel in every walk of life.

Have you ever paused, mid-task, to wonder why we cling to conventional problem-solving methods in a world that’s evolving faster than ever? It’s a bit like relying on a paper map in the age of digital navigation—a comforting habit, perhaps, but hardly efficient. This is where Design Thinking comes into play, acting as a compass for innovation in the rapidly changing landscapes we navigate daily. Forgoing the creating more approach; Design Thinking focuses on creating with intention. It’s a philosophy that doesn’t start from the assumption that we already have all the answers. Instead, it invites curiosity, encourages a deep dive into the human experience, and advocates for solutions that are both effective and meaningful. In essence, it asks us to shift our perspective—away from the what and towards the why and the who. In this exploration, we’re peeling back the layers of Design Thinking to reveal its core: a blend of empathy, creativity, and strategy that challenges us to rethink how we approach not just design, but problem-solving at large. What is Design Thinking? You’ve likely navigated through countless problem-solving methods, each promising to be the key to unlocking innovation. Yet, how often do we pause and question their effectiveness in the real, complicated world we’re trying to improve? This brings us to Design Thinking, a concept that steps out from the shadows of conventional methods, challenging us to rethink the way we approach problems. At the heart of Design Thinking lies a simple yet profound truth: understanding. It’s about getting to the core of people’s needs, desires, and experiences. But it doesn’t stop there. This approach intertwines creativity with practicality, weaving through disciplines and mindsets to find solutions that are not just novel, but truly necessary. Significance of Design Thinking Design Thinking asks us to shift our gaze from the immediate and convenient to the impactful and meaningful. It’s about building bridges between what is and what could be, guided by the stories, needs, and lives of those we’re designing for. The Process of Design Thinking Here are the 5 key steps involved in creating real-life solutions using design thinking: Empathise: The journey into Design Thinking commences with empathy, akin to an explorer gathering insights from uncharted territories. For instance, a health app developer shadowing doctors in a bustling clinic, observing their challenges and interactions with patients firsthand. This immersive exploration is about understanding the nuanced needs and pains of those we’re designing for, setting the stage for meaningful innovation. Define: With a wealth of observational data, the next step is to distill this into a precise definition of the problem. It’s similar to an author outlining the central conflict of a novel. For instance, the health app team might identify the crucial challenge as “streamlining patient data entry to maximize face-to-face consultation time.” This phase sharpens our focus, ensuring we aim our creative efforts where they can make the most difference. The steps of design thinking Ideate: Now, it’s time to brainstorm solutions, where quantity trumps quality, and every idea is welcomed. Think of a room filled with post-it notes, each one representing a potential solution, from the wildly imaginative to the straightforward fixes. It’s a phase reminiscent of a brainstorming session for an advertising campaign, where no idea is too out there, encouraging a divergence of thought that fosters true innovation. Prototype: With a trove of ideas at our disposal, we select the most promising and start building prototypes. Like a tech startup creating a basic version of a new social platform feature to see how users interact with it. This stage is about experimentation and tangibility, transforming abstract ideas into concrete, testable forms. It’s a hands-on phase where the goal is to learn through making. Test: The final stage is testing, where prototypes are exposed to real-world scenarios and users. Feedback collected here is gold, offering direct insights into how well the solutions meet the user’s needs and what adjustments are necessary. It could be likened to a chef hosting a tasting menu before finalising a restaurant’s new dishes, where each critique is an opportunity to refine and perfect. The Iterative Loop Crucially, the Design Thinking process is inherently iterative. Insights from testing can loop us back to any previous stage, armed with new understandings that demand we re-think, re-define, or re-ideate. It’s a dynamic process that resembles the development cycle of a software product, constantly evolving in response to user feedback and technological advancements. The Origins and Evolution of Design Thinking The story of Design Thinking begins in the intellectual climate of the 1960s, a period ripe for the birth of innovative concepts. This era saw the convergence of minds seeking to understand not just the ‘how’ but the ‘why’ behind design. A Spark in the 60s Herbert Simon stands as a pioneering figure during these formative years. His insights laid the groundwork, viewing design not just as an artistic endeavour but as a complex, structured process aimed at solving problems. Simon introduced the world to the idea that the essence of design lies in the thoughtful consideration of human needs and experiences. The Role of Visionaries and Institutions Fast forward to the late 20th century, and we witness the rise of IDEO and the Stanford d.school, institutions that took Simon’s foundational ideas and propelled them into the mainstream. IDEO, with its human-centered approach, transformed Design Thinking into a universally accessible methodology. Concurrently, the d.school at Stanford became a hub of interdisciplinary collaboration, educating generations in the art and science of Design Thinking. IDEO’s Influence Under IDEO’s stewardship, Design Thinking evolved from a niche concept to a global movement. They crafted a language and a process for Design Thinking that demystified design for professionals across industries, emphasizing the importance of empathy, prototyping, and iteration. Stanford’s Contribution The d.school’s inception in 2004 marked a pivotal moment in Design Thinking’s journey. Founded by David Kelley, the institution became a crucible for innovation, melding diverse disciplines and fostering an environment where students and professionals alike could

Weekends are the perfect opportunity for families to come together and create lasting memories. Embracing the principles of Montessori Schools in Bangalore, families can engage in creative activities that promote learning while having fun. These activities not only foster strong family bonds but also encourage children to explore their creativity and independence.  Let’s dive into some wonderful weekend activities that will make your family time unforgettable, inspired by the enriching environments found at the best Montessori schools in Bangalore. The Montessori Approach to Family Bonding Central to Montessori philosophy is a profound respect for the natural curiosity and capabilities of children. Montessori Schools in Bangalore encourage learners to engage in self-directed activities that nurture their cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development. This same principle can be applied to family activities, empowering both parents and children to explore, discover, and learn together. Embrace the Power of Imagination One of the hallmarks of the Montessori method is the emphasis on imaginative play. Families can harness this approach by engaging in role-playing games, storytelling, and creative arts and crafts. Whether it’s building a fort out of blankets and pillows or staging a backyard theater performance, these activities ignite the spark of imagination and promote collaborative problem-solving. Encourage Hands-On Exploration Montessori Schools in Bangalore are renowned for their hands-on, experiential learning approach. Families can bring this spirit of exploration into their weekend activities by engaging in science experiments, cooking together, or embarking on nature-based scavenger hunts. These tactile experiences not only foster a deeper understanding of the world around them but also strengthen the bond between parents and children. Cherishing moments, creating lasting memories. Engaging Weekend Activities for Families Backyard Camping Adventure Transform your backyard into a cosy campsite and embark on an outdoor adventure. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows over a fire pit, and engage in stargazing. Encourage your children to help with setting up the campsite, encouraging a sense of responsibility and ownership. This activity not only creates lasting memories but also allows families to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Themed Arts and Crafts Day Unleash your family’s creativity by dedicating a day to arts and crafts. Gather a variety of materials, such as paints, clay, recycled items, and drawing supplies, and let your children’s imaginations run wild. Encourage them to create their own masterpieces, or organize collaborative projects where everyone contributes to a larger piece. Display the final products proudly, celebrating the unique talents and perspectives of each family member. Scavenger Hunt Extravaganza Stimulate your children’s problem-solving skills and sense of adventure by organizing a scavenger hunt around your neighborhood or local park. Hide clues and challenges that lead them on an engaging treasure hunt, fostering teamwork and communication. You can even incorporate educational elements, such as identifying local flora and fauna or exploring the history of your community. Culinary Creations Invite your children to join you in the kitchen and embark on a culinary adventure. Assign age-appropriate tasks, such as measuring ingredients, mixing batters, or decorating the final product. Encourage them to experiment with new recipes or put a creative spin on family favorites. The act of cooking together not only nurtures essential life skills but also provides an opportunity for quality bonding time. Making memories, one meal at a time. Family Game Night Set aside an evening for a lively family game night. Explore a variety of board games, card games, or interactive digital experiences that cater to different age groups and interests. Encourage friendly competition and sportsmanship, while also fostering communication, strategic thinking, and good-natured laughter. Embracing the Montessori Mindset at Home The principles of the Montessori approach, as exemplified in Montessori Schools in Bangalore, can be seamlessly incorporated into family activities. By fostering a sense of independence, creativity, and collaboration, parents can create an environment that nurtures their children’s growth and strengthens the family bond. Whether it’s engaging in hands-on experiments, embarking on imaginative adventures, or simply enjoying quality time together, these weekend wonders can leave a lasting impact on your family. By embracing the Montessori mindset and infusing it into your family’s activities, you can unlock a world of possibilities for unforgettable memories and cherished connections. So, as you plan your upcoming weekends, consider how you can draw inspiration from the engaging and enriching approach of Montessori Schools in Bangalore and other leading schools in Bangalore. Unleash your family’s creativity, foster a spirit of exploration, and revel in the joy of quality time together. After all, these are the moments that will become the treasured cornerstones of your family’s story.

The world our students will inherit is constantly evolving. Shouldn’t their education be too? Innovative approaches to curriculum design have become a pressing need in today’s rapidly evolving society. Every day, discussions about the overhaul of educational systems highlight the necessity to break free from traditional moulds. The conventional approach to education often focuses on preparing students for existing jobs and skills. However, in a world propelled by technology and constant change, this approach may need to be revised. With advancements in technology, countless new skills may emerge, reshaping the landscape of employment and expertise. Thus, relying solely on traditional standards fails to prepare students for the future adequately. It’s time to reimagine educational content and methods to cater to the diverse skill set of every student. Innovative approaches to curriculum design Constructing a new and innovative curriculum for kids that caters to each individual’s needs is no easy task. So here are some innovative and different approaches to designing an inclusive curriculum: Project-Based Learning: Involves students working on real-world projects that are relevant and meaningful to them. Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills as students engage with authentic challenges. Encourages active learning and deeper understanding of concepts by applying knowledge to practical situations.  Personalised Learning: Tailors the curriculum to meet the unique needs, interests, and pace of each student. Allows student engagement and motivation by allowing them to explore topics they are passionate about. Offers a sense of ownership over learning, leading to increased student autonomy and self-direction. Experiential Learning: Provides hands-on, real-world experiences to complement classroom learning. Enables students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, reinforcing understanding. Promotes active participation and deeper learning through direct engagement with concepts and phenomena.   Case studies of purpose-based learning in action Purpose-based learning is not merely a novel idea; it’s already making waves worldwide as a tried and tested approach. Across various educational settings, successful implementations have showcased its effectiveness in producing meaningful learning experiences. So it is essential to grasp the significance of this learning strategy through insightful case studies, shedding light on its practical application and transformative impact. High Tech High, California, USA The purpose-based learning practices used by High Tech High, a network of charter schools in California, USA, are examples of effective educational methodologies. Through their innovative project-based approach, students engage in interdisciplinary studies, exploring real-world problems collaboratively. Students gain a sense of purpose and connection to their learning by showcasing their work to external audiences. High Tech High’s emphasis on personalisation allows students to pursue their passions, resulting in deeper engagement and growth. More than that, their commitment to equity and diversity ensures an inclusive learning environment for all students, further enhancing the impact of purpose-based learning on student success and achievement. Ron Berger’s Expeditionary Learning Schools Ron Berger’s Expeditionary Learning Schools demonstrate effective project-based learning and character education methods. Berger, a key figure in education, co-founded the Expeditionary Learning (EL) network. EL schools use ‘expeditions’– extended projects spanning multiple subjects – as their main approach. These projects address real-world issues, sparking student curiosity. Students improve their critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills while also learning about the subject. EL schools also emphasise student presentations to the community, encouraging ownership and developing public speaking abilities. The Bronx Design and Construction Academy The Bronx Design Challenge focuses on high school students in the Bronx, New York City, addressing authentic community challenges such as urban agriculture or sustainable housing. Utilising project-based learning, students collaborate with mentors from diverse fields like architecture and engineering to devise solutions. This academy offers CTE programs (Career and Technical Education) in areas like architecture and engineering, empowering students to resolve real-world challenges through project-based learning. Through hands-on engagement and mentorship, the Bronx Design Challenge empowers students to become innovative problem solvers, making tangible contributions to their community’s well-being. Through real-world applications and collaborative projects, students not only deepen their understanding of academic concepts but also develop essential skills for success in the 21st century. Reflecting on the various case studies presented, it is clear that purpose-based learning has the ability to alter students’ lives by encouraging lifelong learning and community engagement. By adopting this strategy, we set the framework for an education system that values inclusion, creativity, and societal impact.