A Trip of a Life time!USA West Coast Trip

Our ‘explorars’ undertook an immersive educational journey to the US West Coast from 22^nd of May to 1^st of June 2018. The week away was filled with opportunities for acquiring leadership skills through thrilling hands-on experiences with technology besides other learning opportunities.

 The trip began with our students paying a visit to San Francisco where they learned about engineering and designing with a workshop at the Tech Museum of Innovation and through a hands on Lego work shop at the Intel Museum. In San Francisco they were also wowed by the interactive miniature experience initiatives at the newly opened Apple Park. Performing a Flash mob at the Fisherman’s Wharf and a breathtaking view at the Golden Gate Bridge made for unforgettable memories .

 

Our students then headed to Seattle and visited The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, where they learned about the different initiatives being undertaken by the foundation. Our students gained a lot of insight and also got inspired to help the underprivileged. They also toured the campus of the University of Washington, and also acquainted themselves with the admissions eligibility and criteria, student life etc there. These lucky students also visited the Harry Potter Library from Hogwarts! They learned fundamentals of coding at Microsoft headquarters, besides visiting the Boeing factory to see how airplanes are manufactured. The young adventurers also attended a workshop on drones and flew them themselves in the Drone Zone. They also enjoyed a panoramic view of the Seattle city from the famous Needle Point .The Underground Tunnels in Seattle gave our students a unique perspective of the history of the 1890's.

 

The next leg of the trip took our students to the city of Los Angeles and the New York film Academy where familiarized themselves with the courses offered by the academy. While in the city, they also visited one of the world’s most prestigious universities- the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)  for a campus tour. To make the most of the LA vibes, our students relaxed at the shore line of Santa Monica Beach to work on their presentations on #mytechieidea and further had fun at the beach. They also went to the California Science Centre where they watched a 3D IMAX film and also viewed a space shuttle besides spending time at the Griffith observatory. Last, but not the least, our students were thrilled to spend time at the famous Universal Studios where they relived the glamour and glitz of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Our students returned from the trip with a treasure trove of memories, photographs, experiences and more developed leadership skills.

 

Paris Night

Prom! A night that everyone looks forward to enjoy one last time with friends and teachers who became family in the last two years. One night every IBDP 2 student has waited for. 18th May marked the end of our schooling while at the same time given us a chance to foresee our upcoming responsibilities. The night our juniors hosted for us was a reminder of their love towards us. It truly touched my heart. The effort and commitment they showed to arrange a gala night will not be forgotten. The games, awards and dance made the night a memorable event.  Now I can say that I'll miss this family I was a part of even more.

Ria Erramilli

DRS International school non-teaching staff revisited Spoken English classes, which was inaugurated by honorable Principal Dr.Gaurav Muradia on 22^nd May 2018.The programme has been organized under the direction of Mr.A.K.Agarwal, Director of DRS International School under the guidance of Principal. The main aim and objective of this four day session was to impart education to non-teaching staff and develop their speaking skills using English language in their day to day professional career at DRS International School and also to benefit them in their personal life. Faculty Dr.V.K.Aaron Levis and Mrs.S.Shailaja helped them to learn basics of speaking English. Our non-teaching staff has learned to greet people with phrases and personal behavior practice, a lesson to introduce him/her was taught to them following with use of contextual conversation and usage of pleasantries .On the last day of session they enacted with role play of their daily activities related to their work at DRS International School.

Coorg Adventure trip

Our students of Grades IV-VI made the most of their summer break by heading off to Coorg for an adventure-filled trip. A stay at the campsite meant students experienced the excitement and thrill of living in tents in the outdoors, experiencing the elements of nature 

The highlights of the adventure trip included long leisurely morning nature walks, team building activities, trekking, playing with water at the waterfall and magical campfires at night at the campsite. Students also visited the Dubare Elephant Camp where they fed elephants, bathed and played with a baby elephant, experiences which they truly cherished. Our students then visited KRS Brindavan Garden and the culture-rich Golden Namdroling Monastery. On the next day of their stay at Mysore, they visited the grand Mysore palace, the bird sanctuary, the majestic Chamundi hills; St.Pilomena’s Church, the famous Rail Museum, the historic city of Sri Rangapatna and finally had a thrilling afternoon at Wonder La, one of the best amusement parks in India! Students returned home with memories of a lifetime of the adventure-filled Coorg Trip.

How to spend quality time with your child!

It's always a good idea to spend some quality time together with your child, and if you're searching for inspiration, you've certainly come to the right place. Here are some tips to make the most of your time together:

1. Disconnect & Explore the OutdoorsTake this opportunity to disconnect from cellphones and the internet and disengage from your routine mindspace. The greatly adds value and presence to the time you spend together and let's you be in the moment.  Step outdoors with your child in the early morning or late evening to enjoy a little bit of the warmth of sun and explore the wonders that nature has to offer. Long walks, treks or even climbing a boulder or two that Hyderabad is famous for is a great way to challenge yourselves together while you chat and catch up with each other.
2. Make chores funVaccuming or sorting the laundry can be made a party, with some music and laughter! Doing chores together is a great way to share responsibilities at home and let your child be involved in getting things done around home. Give the maid a day off and cook a dish or two together, set time limits and create dusting competitions with a fun reward at the end of the day. There's a lot your child can learn from such experiences.
3. Back to the BasicsIt's important to equip your child to face life on their own, and teaching them a thing or two about basic life skills is the way to go. Show them how to change a tyre, make themselves a meal, sew on a button or operate the washing machine by themselves. While it might seem silly, these basics are the best thing you can pass on to your child in terms of know-how.
4. Join their world!Quality time should not always be defined by the adults. To make it more fair and well, fun, its important that children have a say in it to. Spend some time trying your hand at your child's favourite video game or risk it all with a fun make-up session at the hands of your child. Do what they love, and do what's important to them. This is a great way of communicating that they matter to you.
5. Games, Games, Games!Nothing strengthens family bonds like a good, spirited and competitive game! Whether its a classic board game like Monopoly or Chess, or indoor games like Carroms (yes, its time to dust off the striker!) or Darts, or even a fun interactive virtual game like Drawful or Fibbage, games are great way to get everyone to team up and get laughing!

Con GRAD ulations! IBDP-2 Graduation ceremony(2016-2018)

The time has come! After two years of hard work, our students of IBDP-2 made it to the final stretch. From long all-nighters studying for a final exam, to hours spent in learning, researching and pouring out their reflections- it’s all amounted to this great final accomplishment. At the Graduation Ceremony held this morning, all our students’ families, friends, and faculty gathered to applaud their work. Students of IBDP 2 are now stepping out of the doors of the school as young, accomplished people with dreams and goals to fulfill.


The ceremony began with processional music that signified the arrival of our faculty, led by our Principal, Dr Muradia. Our Principal Dr. Muradia addressed  the parents and congratulated their students for their hard work and urged them to shoulder the responsibilities to come with strength and initiative. Our DP 2 students were then felicitated with awards and scrolls of honour. The ceremony also saw our DP 1 students honour their seniors with magazines they had put together for them to treasure their memories. The IBDP coordinator and the DP Faculty present also spoke to the students about the importance of one’s roots in stepping out into the world with confidence and the attributes of the IB Learner Profile. The ceremony ended with students from DP 2 taking to the dais to thank the school community and their families for standing by them through the IB DP journey.

How to keep your child busy in the holidays!

With two weeks of the summer break still to go, and the thrill of the holidays wearing off, you may wondering how to keep your kids busy in the holidays ahead. Summer camps, overseas trips and coaching classes aren't everyone's cup of tea and the hot weather doesn't really allow for outdoor play. Worry not, because here at DRS International School, we have some ideas for what it takes to keep your child happy and engaged these holidays!

1. VolunteeringThere are several organizations in Hyderabad that take in volunteers over the summer and could do with an extra hand. Volunteering helps your child develop empathy and vital skills such as leadership and confidence. If they're too young to volunteer, your child can make a difference by taking a small step like keeping a bowl of water for birds this hot summer and be a part of something bigger like Blue Cross Hyderabad's Water Bowl Project.
   
2. DIY ActivitiesThere's nothing like the joy of watching your thrilled child proudly show you something they made. Encourage your child to explore their crafty side with Do It Yourself Activities all summer long. Our Official Pinterest Page as well as countless YouTube channels have many great ideas for your child to explore. Trying these out with your little one is a great way for you to bond better as well.
   
3. Random Acts of KindnessChallenge your child to perform one random act of kindness for every day left of the summer break. This could range from helping a sibling or a grandparent, watching out for an animal, cheering someone up or even signing up for a noble cause on Change.org. Going out of their way to be kind is fulfilling in many ways. Check out our community outreach programme for more inspiration.
4. Film FestivalSet up your own film festival at home with the best of children's movies. Skip the Disney films, and let your child experience some of the best of world cinema, with classics like Majid Majidi's 'Children of Heaven' or 'The Red Balloon' by Albert Lamorisse. YouTube also has an excellent collection of short films for children that your child is sure to enjoy. Throw in some popcorn and turn off the lights to make it a cosy experience!
5. Museum ToursWhile a trip to Salar Jung or Chowmahalla Palace is always a learning experience, your child will be thrilled to see museums around the world from the comfort of their own home! Many museums offer free virtual tours- click here for a great list of recommendations.

Do try these out and let us know if they work for you! If you need more ideas you can always write to us at smart.p@drsinternational.com or encourage your child to complete their holiday homework!

How to Help My Child Concentrate

Children are often playing and show keen interest in learning through play at DRS International School. Every parent has the same concern about child focus and concentration. Children are born ‘stronger’ in one or the other activities, but some children learn and strategize and also focus with attention. Yet the ability to concentrate and sustain attention among all the children is crucially important. Concentration needs focus and attentiveness of the children.
Before we head there, here is one thing you need to understand…
Children are naturally curious with endless energy!
Healthy eating for better concentration
Children need huge reserves of energy to get through their day. Eating healthy food has a direct link with how well a child concentrates. Eating junk food or sugar rich foods makes a child sluggish while food rich in proteins such as almonds or eggs has the ability to increase concentration levels! Eating green food metabolizes the body with antioxidant, which boosts children brain power.
Television and gadgets
Make sure televisions or distracting gadgets are switched while children are engaged in a task. Daily soaps serials or social media channels can easily distract concentration. Set a daily schedule out of their routine for challenging tasks; and ensure this scheduled time is followed.

Divide bigger tasks in to smaller tasks
Studying an entire chapter in one go is quite difficult for a child. It always helps to break a big task down in pages or even paragraphs so that the child feels a sense of accomplishment for finishing a small task and this will motivate him/her to continue. Set a time limit for the completion of a task.
Tune –in before a new task
When your child is busy, tell him what he has to do next, but in between let a few minutes, pass till he/she stops and starts the new activity. This advice is more valid, when a child is engaged doing something likes and enjoys doing, since there would be reluctance to stop what he is doing and begin something else. Tuning in to the next activity would help him/her concentrate more and get more enthused about the next activity.

Understand your child’s style of learning

1. Visual learners –Children with this learning style prefer looking at images and pictures with colors, diagrams and videos.
2. Kinesthetic learners- These types of children learn by action and feel of being a part of lesson, character or an object among the inquiry.
3. Verbal learners –Children who prefer learning with sound and music learn very easily. Reading recitation conversations help them focus. This learner works best with words whether it’s through speech or writing. They read aloud and write things out in order to understand them.
4. Reinforce and applaud-Praise your children on the completion of small task, Honor them with a star or some small gesture to recognize his/her efforts which really boosts confidence and helps him work more with better concentration.

How to be a Role Model for your Child

Create room for bonding.
Children learn to respect and care for others when they are treated the same way. How you behave with your child, impacts the way they behave to others. When your child feels loved, bonding and values grow stronger. Schedule some family time in your daily routine and get to know about his/her day. Dancing to music together, or helping them in DIY craft activities are just some of the, many ways to bond with your child.
Show them what caring is
Parents are the child’s first teachers. Every child observes and learns from parents and their actions have a lot of impact on the child. Teach the child ‘Sharing is Caring’ and help them in sharing toys, books, and rides with friends and siblings .Small children are ‘me-oriented ‘by nature caring helps them develop as people is all about. Our Value Education Programme also parallely works with your child on developing Empathy.
Set expectations for your child
As a parent, it is more important to find the right balance between setting expectations and guidelines to reach those expectations. It is a balancing act as you know your child the best and can help them make appropriate goals. Expect your children to keep their promises and stay firm with commitments and demonstrate the same.

Teach children sense of responsibility
Engage your children in household chores along with you; it is one of the best ways to teach them to be responsible. Guide them in expressing gratitude which really helps them build love and respect towards each other at the home. Set age-appropriate responsibilities and even use the word responsibility while assigning them house hold works. Firstly, demonstrate to children how to complete small tasks. Show them how to prepare a snack or eat an apple; guide them to wash a fruit thoroughly. Does he/she always throw their dirty clothes on the floor? Place a bin or hamper and show them how they need to be placed .Regular practices such as this helps your child understand and feel the owner ship or responsibility.
Guilt over comparison
Never compare your child with another or instill a competitive fear among the children. Every child is special and great in their own way. Guilt over comparison emotionally children and can develop negative effects.. It may lead to demotivation or lower their self-esteem. Instead, focus on their strong points and tell them how they are good in their own ways.
Anger management
Avoid fighting or arguing with your partner, or anyone else in front of your children. They assume what they see and feel it’s okay to shout or be rude in an argument with others. Don’t discuss or chit chat gossips about someone else in front of your children. Anger or frustrations are due to work stress, plan and manage your work and have some ‘Me time’ were you get refreshed ,re-energized and carry out the same mood with your children.
Develop an Explorer
Talk a lot about things happening around the world or places and ask your children to explore more about the things discussed and ask them what was the favorite thing they explored with which the sharing of knowledge increases. Deeper exploration can also be through visual learning from cyber lab, browsing over internet, Newspaper or comics reading by taking books from library.

How to Help my Child with Spellings

Here are some tips and tricks that we, at DRSIS, have observed parents try out with success:
Children find spelling and writing difficult and forget words easily, or get confused with letters while writing. Children need more love and support regularly at home to overcome this challenge. Forcing them to write again and again may leave a negative impact on them. Here are some smart tips to equip you to help your child with spellings:
Develop Vocal Skills
Verbal articulation of words help children memorize sound out words phonetically, it’s said ‘Good spellers are always good readers’. Discourage them from watching TV as your child cannot talk back to a television. Children need to be in regular touch with the language they write so it’s a good idea to replace TV time with showing phonics videos and asking them to pronounce after the spellings or encourage them to recognize the words. For best practice, communicate with your child in the language they are lagging in writing or reading.
Trace words
Tracing words or sentences will help them improve their spellings .Take time out of your busy schedule to sit next to your child so that you can guide them in hand writing .Take his/her hand and trace the letters and words that is confusing to him.
Confusion of ‘b’ and‘d’
Many children initially get confused between writing ‘ b’ and ‘d’ to overcome this confusion, teach them the small trick of thinking ‘b’ as left hand side and ‘d’ as right hand side .
Three letter and five letter word
Writing longer words is a challenging phase where children need to know sound, articulation, phrasing and pronunciation of the word to write them out. A good practice is to take print of these words and paste them where your child spends most time as seeing the spelling regularly will enhance their retention.
Phonetic approach
Phonetic approach plays important role in helping beginning readers to understand how letters are linked to the sounds and to form letter-sounds and spelling patterns. Show children audio clips, allow them to play interactive games on phonics or download apps which have phonics practice.
Reading Fluency
Does your child struggle with fluency? Read aloud to your child so that he/she understands the sound of articulation it; do paired reading which increases their enthusiasm to learn in your presence. Inculcate sight words or phrase words in forms of flash cards or board games. Practicing with these increases the ability to spell accurately, quickly and with expression. Fluency builds bridges between word recognition and comprehension. When your child reaches the stage of reading fluently, they will recognize words automatically