PW invited parents of Vista International School, Hyderabad to share extra-curricular activities they are planning for their children in the new academic year

Our children have become so involved in the online world that they have lost their connect with the real world. Therefore, this year I am planning to introduce my 13-year-old son Jaiaditya to sports such as cycling, basketball and cricket with the hope that he can spend substantial time outdoors, bond with peers and lead a healthy lifestyle. Values education is another activity I have in mind so he can develop a sound personality and associated life skills to find success in life.

— Srilatha Srinivas, proprietor, Sri Technologies, Hyderabad

This year we are planning book reading sessions for my son Abhay Ram (class II) of select books that deal with drastic changes, tough emotions and have reassuring endings. We believe that discussions on how book characters manage adversity and adjust to new situations will enable Abhay to manage his own fears and challenges in uncertain times. Learning about characters who confront difficult situations and emerge triumphant helps to assure children that their family can make it through hard times, too.

— Jagadeesh V, senior manager, Cotiviti India Pvt. Ltd,. Hyderabad

Diary writing is an activity I have planned for my 12-year-old daughter Nishkka as she has simply forgotten the importance of writing and expressing her thoughts in the pandemic years. I believe diary writing will not only enhance her writing skills but also help her to express herself and confront problems she may be facing. I intend teaching her the nuances of troubleshooting. Another activity I have in mind for her is to record her happiness factor daily on a scale of 1 to 10. The idea is to help her reflect on happy times and learn to appreciate life.

— Prerana Oswal, entrepreneur, Hyderabad

The plan this year is to encourage my son Anish (class V) to practice setting goals for himself so he can discover, plan, act, and reflect. To improve his stamina, we intend to expose him to a range of activities including a fitness regimen and rigorous sports. Moreover, we will also encourage him to sign up for after-school club activities, school excursions and inter and intra school competitions to raise his awareness and develop leadership skills

— Ramakrishna Segi, principal consultant, Infor Global, Hyderabad