01 May,2024 09:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Ainie Rizvi
Screen-free retreat in the suburbs of Mumbai. Pic/Ainie Rizvi
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Tucked away in the narrow alleys of Bandra, this Mangalorean villa operates as a learning hub with a twist. Introducing a digital detox program for kids glued to screens, preschool Little Elly has curated a tech-free summer camp set to begin on May 2.
The focal point of this year's retreat is the âcampsite' theme, which seamlessly integrates the lush canopy of mango, hibiscus, banana, coconut and more trees, located in the heart of this 158-year-old suburban bungalow.
"So, we are setting up tents in the premise where kids aged 6-9 will partake in structured activities for outdoor exploration and social interactions," shares the centre head -- Deepali D'Souza, while packing DIY kits for an upcoming pottery session.
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Over the duration of a month, the camp will offer a variety of educational and skill-building activities spread out over four weeks. Fostering children's appreciation for nature, each child will be clubbed in a group representing one of the four elements: earth, water, fire, and air.
Turning to nature
Once the child has been assigned to an elemental group, she will experience a week dedicated solely to that element. "In the first week, we'll explore the element of earth, focusing on pottery where each child will get to create their pot, paint it and then plant a seed in it. By the end of the camp, they'll witness the growth of their plant, which they can then take home," tells Sumaiya, who is overseeing the preparations at the summer camp.
With a footprint of 3000 square feet, the school features fruit-bearing trees, for children to recognise and learn about while they dwell on the premises. Furthermore, to develop children's fundamental movement skills, the preschool has partnered with the Ghatkopar-based multi-sports coaching programme âEnjoy-a-ball,' which will conduct games for the little ones.
Additionally, the staff has organised dance sessions every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to complement our activities. Harnessing children's vibrant morning spirits, they have invited Rhythm Happy Feet to conduct lively dance sessions, providing an avenue for them to release energy and settle into the day.
Parents are welcome to attend and witness their child's camp achievements, gaining insight into their learning journey. In the initial week, kids will get to explore the concept of Earth, followed by an exploration of water in the second week, air in the third and fire in the fourth week. This will involve hands-on scientific experiments investigating water density and the behaviours of different substances like oil.
Included in the array of bonding activities is the parachute game, where kids will get to run around with their parachutes, fostering teamwork and coordination skills. In the fire-themed section, teachers will introduce magnifying glasses to examine balloons, observe their behaviours and study the intensity of heat. Furthermore, curated candle experiments are aimed at provoking children's innate curiosity, and prompting them to learn more about their surroundings.
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Screen-free retreat in the suburbs of Mumbai
Adorned in cerulean and white tones, the bungalow has undergone a complete makeover in the outdoor area. Children will be required to embellish their group tents to reflect the weekly themes. To recreate a nature retreat, the school staff has created a faux lake using satin silk to mimic flowing water, populated with dummy alligators and aquatic life.
Psyched about the lineup, D'souza tells this writer: "So the biggest reason why parents should enroll their kids at this centre is the outdoors. The kind of space that we have here is rare." Mumbai being one of the most densely populated cities in the world, leaves little room for the design and size of school facilities, such as fields and playgrounds.
Secondly, at the centre, screens are not utilised for teaching; instead, they employ puppets, drawing boards, and various props for instruction. Additionally, teachers and visiting parents are prohibited from bringing mobile phones into the activity rooms.
With a ratio of 10:2, their school maintains ample staff to oversee every child's activity throughout the month. On the final day of the summer camp, the kids will present a stage show for parents and teachers displaying their newly acquired talents.
Where: Bungalow No 5, Off Carter Rd, next to Railway Officers Colony, D Block, Railway Colony, Shirley, Bandra West
When: May 2-31, 9:30 - 12:30
Fee: Rs. 15,000
Contact: 083697 13271
