When academics take precedence over all else in schools, where are children to turn to in terms of developing their artistic skills?
The Aazhchakootam programme, being organised by Nireeksha, a women’s theatre group, at Paamancode, near Malayinkeezhu, is providing a platform for its participants, 32 children, to pursue and nurture their artistic skills.
The weekly Sunday workshops give theatre, dance, music and art lessons but organisers are seeking to add another dimension to these. Now, Nireeksha plans to start a children’s library of sorts that would accompany their art lessons.
“Introducing the joy of reading to young children will help their mental development. Once we have built a collection of books, we will start with storytelling sessions,” said E. Rajeshwari, one of the founders of the group.
Since the group meets only once a week, they cannot afford to set aside a chunk of the day for storytelling. Other classes too are scheduled during the day. The storytelling sessions are likely to be held for around an hour, as a more productive way to spend the interval between drama and art lessons.
The children participating in the weekly lessons were chosen during a 15-day workshop called Anubhava organised by Nireeksha in April. The classes were led by Pankaj Saxena, head of the Children’s Theatre wing, National School of Drama, New Delhi.
A messageA striking feature of Aazhchakoottam is that every class involves a discussion of some social message. The age group here is between five and 12, and the intention is to instil in them awareness about rights, concern for others and the environment. Most activities involve some element of teamwork, which would enhance emotional development of children, especially when many hail from nuclear families.
Ms. Rajeshwari said they planned to launch the library concept with storytelling sessions. Slowly, the space would be developed as a reading room and a lending library.
Nireeksha’s organisers are inviting contributions of children’s books to help build this scheme. They are also requesting recommendations of titles that would be ideal for the five-12 age group in English and Malayalam. Those interested in supporting can contact 9447221213, 9446024923 or 9446101537. Suggestions can be sent to info@nireeksha.in.
