PW invited parents of Gaudium School, Kolluru, Hyderabad to share their insights on how they are enabling their children to return to in-school classrooms

“With reopening of schools becoming a reality, we are making sure that our son — Mukilan (7) — understands the reasons for wearing a mask at all times and sanitizing his hands at frequent intervals. Most importantly, we are teaching him all safety protocols including how to maintain social distancing in school. To begin with, he has observed all safety guidelines while playing with his friends within our gated community. For his physical and mental well-being, we have also enroled him for yoga, kickboxing and music classes.” — Veerappan Ramachandran, IT professional, Deloitte

“I am confident my children — Sarahi (9) and Shail (7) — are ready for school as they have followed a study-play-read-write routine over the past few months and are habitual early risers. The prolonged closure of school initially made them watch too much television and other digital devices. But we quickly restricted their digital screen times and indulgence in junk food by sending them out to play and engaging a physical instructor to teach them table-tennis and swimming. We also introduced daily reading-writing sessions as the children were weak in these departments.” — Sarosh Vishnukanth, Entrepreneur

“Fortunately both my children — Sri Nishika (class III) and Avishka (class II) — like most of their generation have open minds, and easily adapt to any situation. Lately we have been talking about returning to school, meeting friends and teachers in person while observing all safety protocols. Their excitement is palpable as they are looking forward to spending more in-person time with their peers — in classrooms, playing fields and dining areas — and less time with digital devices.” — Dr. Deepika Narra, consultant dermatologist and co-founder of Dermiq Skin and Hair Clinic, Hyderabad

“We were very conscious that my son Satya Aarav (7) missed school and all its associated activities. Despite his young age, Aarav is quite mindful about wearing a mask when he steps outdoors and frequently sanitises his hands. In my opinion, he is more than ready for school. The real challenge is my daughter Shri Diya (4) who will attend preschool at Gaudium for the first time. Apart from teaching her the importance of masking and sanitizing, we are also preparing her for the idea of school, likening it to birthday parties she joyfully attends in our gated community.” — Dr. Yashwanth Chinta, partner at Nexogenix Life Sciences, Hyderabad