WINNIE -THE-POOH HAD IT FIGURED OUT & HOW TO MAKE CHILDREN UNDERSTAND THIS

 

 

 

 

How to make children understand these concepts

The ten statements offer wonderful life lessons. Children understand them better when we connect them with familiar experiences rather than simply asking them to memorise the words.

Here are a few examples:

Concept	How to explain it to a child
Friendship is more important than productivity.	Helping a friend who is upset can be more important than finishing a task immediately.
Thinking is best done slowly.	Pause before answering or reacting. Listen carefully and think first.
A simple pleasure enjoyed fully is enough.	Enjoy reading a story, playing outside, or eating a favourite fruit without rushing.
Worrying never improves a situation.	Instead of worrying about a problem, think about one small step you can take to solve it.
Kindness counts, even when unnoticed.	Help someone without expecting a prize, appreciation, or reward.
Being present matters more than being clever.	Listen when someone speaks. Give them your attention instead of trying to show how clever you are.
There is always time for a little something sweet.	Make time for small joys, such as a joke, a story, or a few happy moments with family.
Complicated plans are rarely necessary.	Start with one simple step instead of making a difficult plan.
It's all right not to know what comes next.	It is okay to be unsure. We can learn, explore, and ask for help.
The best days are often the quiet ones.	A peaceful day spent reading, drawing, or with family can be just as wonderful as an exciting outing.

A wonderful activity for parents and children

At the end of each day, ask your child:

• What made you happy today?
• Did you help someone?
• Was there anything that worried you?
• What was one quiet moment you enjoyed?
• What did you learn today?

Let children answer in their own words. They can also draw pictures, tell a story, or act out a situation.

The most important lesson: Children learn these values not only from what we tell them, but also from what they observe in us. A parent's patience, kindness, listening, and ability to enjoy simple moments can teach more than a hundred instructions.

The Peace of Wild Things: Finding Comfort in Nature

  

Understanding the hidden meaning and message of Wendell Berry's poem in today's world

When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children's lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

 

There are times when the world seems overwhelming. The news, the uncertainties of life, our responsibilities towards our families, and our worries about the future can make us restless. We may go to bed tired, yet find ourselves awake in the middle of the night, thinking about what tomorrow may bring.

Wendell Berry's beautiful poem The Peace of Wild Things speaks directly to such moments of anxiety and despair. It reminds us that when the world becomes too difficult to understand, nature can offer us a quiet place of comfort, peace, and freedom.

The hidden meaning of the poem

The poem begins with the poet experiencing despair about the world and worrying about the future of his children. These are not unusual concerns. They are the worries of an ordinary human being who loves his family and wishes to protect them.

But instead of remaining trapped in his thoughts, the poet turns towards nature. He finds comfort in watching a wood drake resting on the water and a great heron feeding. These birds are not worrying about tomorrow. They are simply living in the present moment.

This is the central message of the poem: nature teaches us to live in the present rather than allowing our fears about the future to control our lives.

The poet does not suggest that our problems disappear when we step into nature. Instead, he shows us that nature offers a temporary escape from the burden of our thoughts. It allows us to pause, breathe, and look at life from a different perspective. The still water, the birds, and the stars become symbols of calmness, simplicity, and freedom.The stars are particularly meaningful. Even when the poet is surrounded by darkness, he finds light above him. It is a gentle reminder that hope can exist even during difficult times.

What does the poem teach us?

The poem carries several important messages:

1. We cannot control everything.

Life is uncertain. We worry about our children, our families, our health, and the world around us. However, worrying constantly about things beyond our control only increases our distress.

2. Nature does not demand anything from us.

We do not have to achieve anything, prove anything, or compete with anyone when we spend time in nature. We can simply be present.

3. The present moment has its own beauty.

A bird sitting on a branch, the sound of rain, a gentle breeze, or the reflection of clouds in water can bring happiness if we take the time to notice them.

4. Peace is sometimes found in silence.

We are often surrounded by noise, conversations, notifications, and information. The quietness of nature reminds us that silence is not emptiness. It can be a source of strength.

The relevance of the poem in today's life

In today's fast-moving world, Berry's poem is more relevant than ever.

We wake up to news of wars, environmental destruction, economic uncertainty, and social conflicts. Our mobile phones constantly bring the world's problems into our homes. Even when we are physically resting, our minds may be busy thinking about the future. Children too are growing up in a world filled with academic pressure, competition, and digital distractions.

The poem encourages us to reconnect with the natural world. We need not travel to a forest, a wildlife sanctuary, or a distant countryside to experience this peace. Nature is often closer than we imagine. A few minutes spent watching birds from a kitchen window, observing the plants on a balcony, listening to the rain, or looking at the evening sky can help us slow down. Nature invites us to observe rather than react, to appreciate rather than compare, and to live rather than merely worry about living.

It also reminds us of our responsibility towards the environment. The wild things that bring us peace need clean water, trees, and safe habitats. Protecting nature is not merely about saving birds and animals; it is also about preserving the very source of comfort and beauty that sustains us.

A small lesson for parents and children

Parents can introduce children to the message of this poem through simple everyday activities.

• Spend a few minutes watching birds together.
• Observe the changing colours of the sky.
• Listen to the sounds of nature without using a mobile phone.
• Grow a small plant and watch it develop.
• Encourage children to write about what they observe.

These small activities can help children develop patience, curiosity, and an appreciation for the natural world.

They can also become precious moments of togetherness for families.

A final thought

Wendell Berry's poem does not promise that life will always be peaceful. It reminds us that peace is still possible, even when the world around us is uncertain. We may not be able to change everything that worries us. But we can choose to pause, look around, and find comfort in the simple beauty of the world.

A bird resting on the water, a tree swaying in the breeze, or a sky filled with stars may not solve our problems. Yet, for a moment, they can help us feel less burdened. Perhaps that is the hidden beauty of this poem. Sometimes, the peace we are searching for is not found by doing more, but by noticing more. Let us make time for nature, for silence, and for the little things that remind us that we are part of a beautiful world.

Have you ever found peace by watching birds, trees, or the sky? Share your thoughts in the comments.

HANUMAN THE RESCUER - – The Story of Sanjeevani

 

Some stories from our epics never lose their charm, especially when they are presented to children through colourful illustrations and simple, engaging language. Hanuman to the Rescuer by Amar Chitra Katha is one such delightful comic book.

The book has a script by Luis M. Fernandes, illustrations by Ram Waeerkar, and was edited by Anant Pai. It is a beautifully presented comic book for children, with well-designed fonts, simple language, carefully chosen words and colourful illustrations that make the story interesting and easy to follow.

The story revolves around Hanuman's heroic mission to save Lakshmana during the war between Rama and Ravana. Lakshmana is seriously injured by Ravana and falls unconscious. To bring him back to consciousness, he needs to be treated with the Sanjeevani herb before sunset.

This is when Hanuman takes up the challenging mission of travelling to the Himalayan mountains to fetch the life-saving medicine. Ravana, knowing about Hanuman's mission, tries to create several obstacles to prevent him from reaching Lakshmana in time.

How does Hanuman overcome these hurdles and complete his mission before sunset? The story takes us through several interesting episodes, including Kalanemi, the crocodile in the pond, Hanuman carrying the Sun God along with him, and the reason he eventually carries the entire mountain instead of just the medicinal herb!

How does he manage to return the mountain to its original place? And what happens to the Sun God? These questions and many more make the reading enjoyable and keep young readers curious until the very end.

Hanuman's courage, presence of mind, devotion and determination shine throughout the story. The book also introduces children to an important episode from the Ramayana in an entertaining and memorable manner.

A wonderful read for children, especially those who enjoy mythology, adventure and comics. It is also a lovely book to gift to young readers. Do read it or gift it to a child. It is certainly worth reading, and children are sure to enjoy Hanuman's adventurous journey!

Children Learn What They Live – A Message to Parents, Teachers and Children

 

The values we teach children today become the foundation of the adults they become tomorrow.

We often wonder why children behave in a particular way, why some are confident while others are hesitant, why some are kind and considerate while others find it difficult to share or understand another person's feelings. The answer may lie much closer to home than we imagine.

The beautiful message in the picture, "Children Learn What They Live," reminds us of one important truth: children learn not merely from what we tell them but, more importantly, from what they see, hear and experience every day.

A child who grows up surrounded by criticism may learn to criticise others. A child who experiences hostility may respond with anger and aggression. When children are constantly ridiculed, they may become shy and lose confidence. Shame and harsh words can make them feel guilty and insecure.

On the other hand, a child who receives tolerance learns patience. Encouragement builds confidence. Appreciation teaches gratitude, while fairness helps children understand justice. When children grow up in a secure environment, they develop faith and trust. Approval and affection help them like and respect themselves.

Above all, when children experience acceptance and friendship, they learn to find love in the world.

A message to parents

Parenting is not simply about providing food, clothing, education and other comforts. It is also about creating an atmosphere in which children feel safe, valued and loved.

Parents are the first teachers in a child's life. Children observe how parents speak to each other, how they treat elders, how they respond to disagreements and how they behave towards people around them. These everyday experiences leave lasting impressions.

We may teach children to speak politely, but do we always practise it ourselves? We may ask them to be patient, but do we lose our temper over small mistakes? We expect them to share, care and respect others, but do they see us doing the same?

Instead of comparing children with their friends or siblings, encourage them to recognise their own strengths. Instead of pointing out every mistake, appreciate their efforts. Allow them to ask questions, express opinions and learn from failures.

A little encouragement can make a child believe in himself or herself. A few kind words can make a difficult day easier.

A message to children

Dear children, remember that you are growing and learning every day. You need not be perfect in everything you do. It is perfectly fine to make mistakes, ask questions and try again.

Be kind to your friends, respect your elders, share what you can and learn to accept differences. Do not make fun of someone because they are different from you. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses.

Have confidence in yourself, appreciate what others do for you and never hesitate to say sorry or thank you. Most importantly, learn to treat others the way you would like to be treated.

Let us practise what we teach

Childhood is not just a preparation for adulthood; it is an important part of life in itself. The experiences children gather during these formative years influence their thoughts, attitudes and relationships.

Schools, teachers, grandparents, relatives and society also have an important role to play. Every interaction can teach a value, consciously or unconsciously.

We cannot expect children to grow into kind, patient, confident and responsible individuals merely by giving them instructions. We must demonstrate these qualities through our own actions.

Let us give children less criticism and more encouragement, less comparison and more appreciation, less fear and more security, and above all, more love and acceptance.

After all, children may not always remember everything we tell them, but they are likely to remember how we made them feel.

What children live, they learn. Let us make sure they live with kindness, confidence, fairness, friendship and love.

 

"Every child is a reflection of the environment in which he or she grows. Let us create a world where children learn not just to succeed, but also to care, share, respect and love."

For the love of food …. erm … books!

  

I’m wandering the lanes and alleys of Tokyo with a man who stops at various places to pick up food while hunting for a murderer. First, he eats vegetable and shrimp dumplings out of a paper plate and then later, he stops at a cafe and buys gum-syrup coffee and rice balls. I watch him with rapt attention wondering what he is going to eat next.

 

In case you are wondering, I’m not on holiday, on a kinky, murder-themed food walk in Japan. I’m not dreaming either though this would be a really brilliant dream, come to think of it. I’m merely taking you into the world of the latest book that I’m reading. A crime fiction novel called Blue Light Yokohama by Nicolas Obregon based on the unsolved murders of the Miyazawa family in Setagaya, Japan in 2000. I haven’t reached the end so I have no clue who has done the deadly deed of wiping out an entire family of four but I have realized something very important.

 

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Books with food in them turn me on.

 Wipe that smirk off your face at once. It’s not a fetish. Obviously, I don’t mean it literally. Food inside books like slices of cheese squished in between pages or tomato sauce smudges is disgusting. Eyuck. What I meant is descriptions of food. Tantalizing, titillating word pictures of dishes that send me into near orgasmic rapture.

 As C S Lewis had famously remarked once, eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably. I couldn’t agree more. With several hearty thumps, of course.

 Long before I discovered there was a word for people like me - foodie not freak - I remember being drawn to books containing elaborate descriptions of food. It started when I was a little girl beginning to read. My first Enid Blytons brought with them the tea parties, the scones with jam and clotted cream. The slabs of chocolate. I was hooked. I quickly devoured the Famous Fives, the Five Find-Outers and their farmhouse picnics, potted meat and ham sandwiches, ice creams with generous lashings of ginger beer.

 While there are many studies about the significance and symbolism of food in popular children’s literature, the lure of tempting food was the prime motivation for this child and a book that was able to convey that deliciousness through excellent imagery became a prized possession. I read somewhere that reading about what others are eating and feeling is close to being fed. A kind of pleasure that is close to being voyeuristic. In my case, I’m not sure which came first, the love for Chinese cuisine or the interest in books about the Chinese food and culture. I have a hunch it was the latter that fueled that former. Authors such as Amy Tan, Ha Jin and Adeline Yen Mah helped develop that interest with the most sumptuous descriptions of Chinese dishes in their books.

 “I have been envisioning my first real Chinese feast for many days already, a big banquet with one of those soups steaming out of a carved winter melon, chicken wrapped in clay, Peking duck, the works. I was not too fond of crab, ever since I saw my birthday crab boiled alive, but I knew I could not refuse. That's the way Chinese mothers show they love their children, not through hugs and kisses but with stern offerings of steamed dumplings, duck's gizzards, and crab.”

(Amy Tan, Joy Luck Club)

 

Another author I discovered recently, Vivien Chien, writes food-themed murder mysteries. Chien’s novels have clever titles - Death by Dumpling, Murder Lo Mein, Wonton Terror - and are peppered with descriptions of delicious Chinese dishes. Agatha Christie, the Grand Dame of murder mysteries also wrote about a Delicious Death cake in A Murder is Announced.

 The cake is “rich, rich, of a melting richness” and the ingredients needed include “chocolate and much butter, and sugar and raisins.” The cake also has chocolate frosting and “Good Wishes” written on top. In fact, the cake is the last thing one of the characters in the story eats. Come to think of it, I wouldn’t mind bidding my last farewell with a cake like that. It sounds absolutely delicious.

 For readers like me, gustatory imagery makes the entire reading experience all that more authentic and I wish more authors would weave in word pictures of food into their writing. On that hopeful note, I will wait for my next delicious read. In the meantime, I will have to make do with the new book that I bought for my eight-year-old niece. Jolly Good Food, a children’s cookbook inspired by the stories of Enid Blyton. There are recipes for all sorts of scrumptious pies, tarts and scones.

 Oh, who am I kidding. I’m sure you don’t believe this anymore that I do. You must have guessed who the book is actually for, haven’t you?

 Bon Appetit! Or should I say Bon Reading!

Debeshi Gooptu is a former journalist-turned-author who lives and works in Gurgaon. Debeshi was born and brought up in Kolkata, educated at Loreto House (school) and Shri Shikshayatan College (University of Kolkata). She graduated with a BA Honours in English Literature. Debeshi’s 26-year-career includes stints in print, television, new media and higher education. Her book, Gurgaon Diaries: Life, Work and Play in Drona’s Village, based on her long-running blog of the same name, was published by Rupa Publications in 2018. Her novels, Dragon Aunty Returns, Mr Eashwar’s Daughter, The Ghosts of Gurugram and two collections of short stories have been published by Juggernaut Books.  Two of her novels – The Rossogolla Murders and The Book Club - are independently published. She writes a blog, The Gurgaon Diaries!, chronicling life in the Millennium City.

Blog : https://gurgaon-diaries.blogspot.com/

 ( THIS IS THE 8 th WEEK - 11 TH YEAR of BFL-  PART OF GUEST POST SERIES- POST -8)

November Travel Plans: Enjoy the Season, but Travel with Care!

  

  

 

November is fast approaching, and with it comes the excitement of planning holidays, family visits, pilgrimages and short getaways. After the hot summer months and the rainy season, November often brings a welcome change in weather. It is also a popular month for travel, thanks to festivals, school holidays and the beginning of the winter holiday season.

But is November always the right time to travel? Should we go ahead with our plans or wait and watch the weather?

The answer depends on our destination, the prevailing weather conditions and, most importantly, how well we prepare.

Understanding November weather in India

November does not bring the same weather conditions throughout India.

·         South India: Tamil Nadu and parts of the southeastern coast experience the northeast monsoon. Rainfall can be heavy at times, accompanied by thunderstorms, waterlogging and strong winds.

·         North India: Many places begin experiencing cooler days and pleasant mornings, making sightseeing more comfortable.

·         Hill stations: Temperatures can drop considerably, particularly at night. Some roads may be affected by rain, fog or early winter conditions.

·         Coastal destinations: Rough seas, strong winds and heavy rainfall can occasionally disrupt beach activities, ferry services and coastal travel.

Therefore, before booking tickets or packing your bags, understand the seasonal conditions of your destination rather than assuming that November means pleasant weather everywhere.

Before you finalise your travel plans

A little planning can prevent a holiday from becoming an uncomfortable or risky experience.

1.     Check the weather forecast: Follow the India Meteorological Department (IMD) updates for your destination, especially rainfall, cyclone warnings, thunderstorms and wind alerts.

2.     Choose your dates wisely: Keep some flexibility in your travel dates. Avoid travelling during heavy-rainfall warnings or immediately after severe weather.

3.     Be careful with hill stations: Landslides, falling trees, slippery roads and poor visibility can make mountain journeys risky. Do not insist on sightseeing when local authorities advise against it.

4.     Take care near rivers and beaches: Avoid swimming in rough seas, walking into flooded streams or visiting waterfalls during heavy rainfall.

5.     Plan your transport: Check train and flight updates before leaving home. Allow extra time for road journeys, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging.

6.     Pack according to the season: Carry umbrellas, raincoats, waterproof footwear, a light jacket, essential medicines and a small first-aid kit.

7.     Keep emergency contacts handy: Save hotel details, local emergency numbers, travel insurance information and the contact details of family members.

8.     Look after elderly travellers and children: Avoid tiring itineraries, long journeys without breaks and unnecessary exposure to extreme weather. Carry drinking water, prescribed medicines and regular snacks.

A few additional precautions

·         Share your itinerary and accommodation details with family members.

·         Keep your mobile phone charged and carry a power bank.

·         Avoid driving through flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow.

·         Do not depend entirely on GPS; keep alternative routes in mind.

·         Check cancellation and rescheduling policies before booking non-refundable tickets.

·         If a weather warning is issued, postpone the trip rather than taking unnecessary risks.

What about travel during the first week of November 2026?

There is an additional reason to be cautious this year. The northeast monsoon has already set in over southern India. Tamil Nadu receives a substantial share of its annual rainfall during this season.

As of October 29, IMD updates indicate rainfall activity over parts of South India, with isolated heavy rainfall possible in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on November 3–4. Conditions can change, so check the latest district-wise warnings before departure.

 

Should we travel or postpone?

My suggestion is not to cancel every November travel plan simply because it is the monsoon season. Instead, make an informed decision.

·         Go ahead: When the destination has favourable weather, transport is functioning normally and there are no official warnings.

·         Keep watching: When rain is forecast but there is no immediate danger. Maintain flexible bookings.

·         Postpone: When there are cyclone warnings, flooding, landslide risks, road closures or official advice against travel.

Remember, a holiday is meant to refresh us, not put us through unnecessary stress.

Travel is enjoyable when safety comes first!

We all look forward to travelling, exploring new places, meeting people, enjoying local food and creating beautiful memories. But no destination is worth risking our safety.

November may offer pleasant travel opportunities in many parts of India, but every destination has its own seasonal challenges. Let us respect nature, understand the weather and plan responsibly.

Travel when the conditions are favourable, postpone when necessary, and return home with happy memories rather than avoidable worries.

"Good travel planning is not just about deciding where to go and what to see. It is also about knowing when to go, when to wait and when to change our plans."

Wishing everyone safe travels and a wonderful November.