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Can you tell us about your journey in education? Through sports, they learn teamwork, early exposure to reading and math ignites

I come from a family deeply rooted in education, with both my grandfather’s problem-solving and communication skills. The sooner we nurture these areas
serving as esteemed professors. Their influence guided my own path—I pursued a holistically, the more confident and capable children become.
teacher’s course at Sophia College and graduated from Narsee Monjee College.

My journey began in 2005 as an intern at DAIS, and over nearly two decades, I’ve
had the privilege of nurturing young minds and following my passion. Currently, as How can emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth be
the head of NMAJS Early Years Campus for Nursery, LKG, and UKG, I’m committed balanced in young learners?

to shaping the early learning experiences of our youngest students. Absolutely, they can be. Emotional intelligence allows children to understand and
manage feelings, spiritual growth gives them a sense of purpose, and intellectual
What’s the secret to your happiness as a teacher? development strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving. I find that when

Staying connected to my purpose—nurturing young minds and witnessing the joy children feel supported emotionally and spiritually, their intellectual development

of learning unfold within them—is what brings me happiness. Each day brings follows naturally. It’s about harmony rather than prioritizing one over the other. Is it possible to cultivate clear thinking in children early
something new: a child’s breakthrough moment, a flash of curiosity, or a little on?
accomplishment. Teaching, to me, is a journey of constant discovery, and it’s the How do you ensure that children remain connected to their Yes, absolutely. Clear thinking begins by encouraging children to ask questions,

small steps along the way that keep my passion alive. As Head of student life at the cultural roots? make choices, and reflect on their actions. When children are guided to think
NMAJS Early years Campus, for me, participation is key. Sports, too, play a role in We celebrate India’s rich traditions in immersive, meaningful ways. For Diwali, critically, explore, and understand cause and effect, they develop logical, sharp
resilience; I’ve even crafted foil medals to encourage each child to do their best, children craft their own pot diya’s; for Christmas, they bake cookies with chef hats minds. Open-ended play, thoughtful discussions, and problem-solving activities
telling them, “For me, you are all winners!” and aprons; and for Janmashtami, we chant “Govinda aala” as they break the dahi Books that spark curiosity and teach values nurture this clarity.
handi. During Navratri, we enjoy Garba dances. Every day, we start with a prayer that I like to share with the children
How do you build resilience in children today? and the school song, setting a peaceful, connected tone for the day. What would be your top three pieces of advice to young

Resilience begins with creating a safe, encouraging space where children can Amar Chitra Katha for its mythological stories and traditional shlokas parents?

make mistakes and learn without fear. I motivate them to face challenges openly, First, foster curiosity—encourage questions without rushing to answer. Second,
celebrate their efforts as well as their successes, and view setbacks as chances for Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, model the values and behaviors you want to see in your child; they learn best by
growth. Encouraging trust, confidence, and a positive outlook are essential. What Do You See? watching. And finally, never underestimate love and patience. When children feel
HIDDEN TALENT : secure and supported, they grow into confident, resilient individuals.
What role do parents play in this process? Musically inclined Sandra Boynton’s Moo, Baa, La La La! and The Going to Bed Book bring

As Winifred Sackville Stoner said, “We mothers are the porters, and our children humor/fun. How do you support and empower teachers to align with
the clay.” Parents shape their children’s emotional and moral foundation. With the school’s culture?

patience, love, and understanding, they can help mold their child into a FAVORITE DAIS EVENT Dr. Seuss’s rhymes, Mo Willems’s Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and We conduct regular training discussions and workshops to stay updated with
compassionate, confident individual. Children learn values, empathy, and Graduation ceremony & Elephant & Piggie series, and Helen Oxenbury’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. advancements in education. Our culture of inclusion ensures that every team
resilience primarily from home. It’s a shared responsibility with educators, but the Annual day Julia Donaldson’s The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, the creative The member feels valued and appreciated. The atmosphere is one of joy and
groundwork is laid at home. We try to have parent sessions to support the ongoing Book with No Pictures and Not a Box, and heartwarming stories like The positivity, which I believe makes it a truly happy school.
work we do in school at home too! CONFESSION Kissing Hand and Ekki Dukki.

A true stationery lover—I make it a
What are your thoughts on early childhood education? point to stop by stationery stores Other treasured reads include tales such as Animal Jamboree, The Tiger

The early years are a foundation for life. Young children are like sponges, whenever I travel! Who Came to Tea, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, and Monkey Puzzle, which
make story time a magical and enriching experience.
absorbing everything. Early education builds a foundation, not only in math or
reading but also in creativity, motor skills, curiosity, and social interactions.