Balwadi
In 2002, we had appointed an Advisory committee to study the whole process of providing pre-primary education to rural children of 3-5 age group. Under their advice we have implemented the following measures:
1. In addition to providing literacy in two languages: (a) Tamil (b) English, we conduct remedial classes for older children in the same area and train them to read fast in Tamil.
2. We teach competency in dealing with numbers and abstract concepts.
3. We have started simple libraries in all villages wherever Vidyarambam is present to develop the reading habit among older school children and other villagers.
4. For each child, we provide a learning kit comprising of alphabet books in both languages, a number book and a black slate with pencil to practice writing. These materials are packed in a comfortable shoulder bag.
5. After three months, we provide a plain small notebook with a pencil to encourage children to scribble as they like. Tutors can then identify the direction of their creativity and interest in due course.
6. We provide class room and teaching-aid materials. The teaching aids are developed by the Resource Center.
7. We have upgraded Vidyarambam's curriculum and redesigned the books bearing in mind the age of the children, the environment in which they live and the literacy level of their parents.
8. We have divided the whole process of coaching into three levels:
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The first level is for a period of 3 months by which we expect the tutor to teach the children at least to identify the pictures, the alphabet of both languages and numbers.
The second level is introduced for those who attain proficiency in the first level and who are at least four years old. Reading and writing is introduced through Picture Flash cards, Word cards and loose Letter cards. This continues for a period of 3 more months.
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The learning kit for the third level contains more vocabulary, rhymes, picture aided stories with morals, and activity books. A supporting set of curriculum is introduced at a suitable time to reinforce their learning with more meaningful words. The duration of the third and final level of the programme is until the child completes the age of 5, attaining eligibility to join Class 1 of the regular school.
9. The tutor-child ratio is maintained at 1:20.
10. Our plans for training Tutors is based on the principles of Vidyarambam and its methodology. Teaching through songs and dances is an attractive methodology we have adopted.
In this manner, the children attain the competency and self-confidence to enter Class 1 of the primary schools.