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June 21, 2025

4 minutes

Importance of Extracurricular Activities in Child Development

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Introduction

A child’s growth is a journey that extends far beyond academics. While textbooks sharpen the mind, it’s often extracurricular activities that shape the heart, body, and spirit. These programs encourage self-expression, build social connections, and help children discover who they are.

At CMR Gandhi Public School, we believe in nurturing the whole child—intellectually, physically, emotionally, and socially. That’s why our extracurricular programs are as thoughtfully designed as our academic ones.

 

Beyond Academics: Why All-Round Development Matters

In the 21st century, success depends not just on knowledge, but on adaptability, creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. Extracurricular activities in child development are powerful tools to build these essential life skills.

Research also shows that these activities stimulate different areas of the brain and positively impact overall development—including memory, attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

 

Types of Extracurricular Activities and Their Benefits

Let’s explore some of the most popular extracurricular activities and how each contributes to a child’s mental, emotional, social, and physical growth.

1. Sports and Physical Activities (e.g., Football, Basketball, Karate)

  • Body: Improves strength, coordination, stamina, and overall physical fitness
  • Mind: Enhances concentration, goal-setting, and stress relief
  • Skills Developed: Discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience

Physical activities help children regulate energy, reduce anxiety, and sleep better. Regular movement also supports brain development through better blood flow and the release of feel-good endorphins.

2. Performing Arts (Dance & Music )

  • Body: Enhances rhythm, posture, breathing control, and fine motor skills
  • Mind: Stimulates creativity, memory retention, and emotional intelligence
  • Skills Developed: Public speaking, self-confidence, emotional expression

These educational activities for students help them connect with their feelings, express ideas creatively, and perform in front of others—building confidence from a young age.

3. Visual Arts (Drawing, Painting, craft)

  • Body: Refines hand-eye coordination and motor control
  • Mind: Encourages imagination, focus, and problem-solving
  • Skills Developed: Innovation, visual-spatial thinking, patience

In young children, especially in activities for kindergarten, art enhances brain development by engaging both hemispheres—boosting creativity and observation skills.

4. Academic Clubs (Science Club, Math Club, Coding, Robotics)

  • Body: Fine motor engagement in hands-on activities (e.g., assembling robots)
  • Mind: Strengthens logical reasoning, innovation, and critical thinking
  • Skills Developed: Teamwork, experimentation, STEM proficiency

Clubs like these transform classroom learning into real-world applications. They’re especially impactful for children with analytical or tech-oriented interests.

5. Literary Activities (Book Clubs)

  • Body: Enhances voice control and articulation
  • Mind: Builds vocabulary, reasoning, and memory
  • Skills Developed: Communication, persuasion, confidence, active listening

Such programs boost cognitive function and linguistic intelligence—giving children tools to express themselves clearly and thoughtfully.

6. Life Skill Programs ( Gardening )

  • Body: Teaches practical, real-world physical activities
  • Mind: Cultivates empathy, responsibility, and self-reliance
  • Skills Developed: Leadership, service mindset, environmental awareness

These activities are essential for shaping a child’s values and worldview—developing a strong character and a sense of purpose.

 

Brain and Body Benefits at a Glance

 

Activity Type Body Development Mind Development
Sports  Physical fitness, agility Focus, discipline, stress relief
Performing Arts Posture, movement, coordination Creativity, confidence, memory
Visual Arts Motor skills, hand coordination Imagination, observation, patience
Academic Clubs Fine motor (hands-on tools) Problem-solving, logical reasoning
Literary Programs Voice projection, articulation Communication, critical thinking
Life Skills Practical physical tasks Empathy, social responsibility

 

5 Key Benefits of Extracurricular Activities

 

1. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

From scoring a goal to performing on stage, achievements outside the classroom make children believe in their abilities.

2. Builds Social Skills and Teamwork

Working in teams teaches cooperation, respect, and empathy—skills vital in school and life.

3. Improves Time Management

Balancing schoolwork and extracurriculars teaches students how to plan, prioritize, and follow through.

4. Sparks Passion and Purpose

When children explore new fields—whether coding, or cricket—they discover what excites them.

5. Supports Academic and Career Growth

Well-rounded profiles are valued in college admissions and future jobs. The importance of extracurricular activities lies in how they nurture leadership, creativity, and initiative.

Even top Montessori schools in HSR Layout build their programs around the idea that experiential learning leads to deeper development.

 

Conclusion: A Child Who Explores, Excels

At CMR Gandhi Public School, we believe every child is unique—and their education should reflect that. Our wide variety of extracurricular programs ensures that every student gets the chance to explore their interests, develop core life skills, and become confident learners.

As one of the best schools in HSR Layout, we offer a supportive environment where academics and extracurriculars go hand-in-hand to foster complete development.

Encourage your child to explore beyond the classroom. You might just help them discover their passion—and shape their future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Music, chess, math clubs, and debate enhance memory, logical thinking, and creativity - stimulating different brain areas.

Absolutely! Simple activities for kindergarten like drawing, dancing, and storytelling boost motor and cognitive development from an early age.

Balance is key. Choose 1–2 well-suited activities and observe your child’s energy and interest level to avoid burnout.

They improve focus, reduce stress, and build executive functions like organization and planning - leading to better academic outcomes.

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How to Help Children Transition Back to School After Summer Holidays

June 21, 2025 4 minutes

The start of a new academic year brings excitement, new challenges, and sometimes a bit of nervous energy—especially after a long summer break. As students pack their bags and get ready to return to school, both parents and children need a little help to ease into the routine. At CMR Gandhi Public School, we understand this transition and support families every step of the way.

Rebuild a Daily Routine

One of the best ways to prepare children for school is by bringing back their daily routine. A week before school reopens, parents can adjust sleep schedules, limit screen time, and reintroduce learning habits in small steps. Waking up early, having meals on time, and spending time reading or revising helps the brain switch from vacation to school mode.

Talk About the New School Year

Children often carry worries they don’t express. Ask open-ended questions like, “What are you excited about this year?” or “Is there anything you feel nervous about?” These conversations build trust and help children feel heard. It’s a good time to remind them that every student feels this way at the start of the year—and that their teachers are here to support them.

Visit the School or Reconnect with Friends

If possible, visit the school campus a few days before reopening. Walking through the classrooms, playground, and common areas can refresh familiar memories and reduce first-day anxiety. Encourage your child to speak to a few classmates or neighbors who also attend the school. Social bonding before school starts makes day one feel friendlier. At CMR Gandhi Public School, we ensure every child receives a warm welcome. From cheerful classroom setups to orientation sessions for new students, we help everyone settle in comfortably.

How CMR Gandhi Public School Supports the Transition

Our teachers plan light activities and class bonding games during the first week of school. We know that children need time to adapt emotionally as well as academically. That’s why we introduce routines gradually, share daily updates with parents, and keep communication open through class teachers and school counselors. We also focus on mindfulness and emotional intelligence as part of our school culture. Students learn how to express their feelings, make friends, and take responsibility for their own learning.

Encourage Goal Setting

Set small, achievable goals with your child. For example: “I’ll finish homework before dinner” or “I’ll read for 15 minutes daily.” Celebrate every small win. These habits build confidence and keep your child motivated as the academic year progresses.

Stay Involved as a Parent

Parental involvement plays a big role in helping students thrive. Join parent-teacher interactions, read school notices regularly, and stay updated through the school’s communication channels. If your child faces challenges, talk to their teachers early—teamwork always leads to better outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The first few weeks after the holidays can be tough—but with care, planning, and support, children bounce back quickly. They make new friends, discover new lessons, and grow in confidence every day. As one of the trusted CBSE Schools in Varthur, CMR Gandhi Public School combines academic excellence with a warm, inclusive environment. If you are looking for schools in Sarjapur Road or CBSE schools in Marathahalli, we invite you to explore our approach to holistic education. We’re excited to welcome every student back with open arms—and a year full of learning, laughter, and success.
Read more
Importance of Extracurricular Activities in Child Development

June 21, 2025 4 minutes

Introduction

A child's growth is a journey that extends far beyond academics. While textbooks sharpen the mind, it's often extracurricular activities that shape the heart, body, and spirit. These programs encourage self-expression, build social connections, and help children discover who they are. At CMR Gandhi Public School, we believe in nurturing the whole child—intellectually, physically, emotionally, and socially. That’s why our extracurricular programs are as thoughtfully designed as our academic ones.  

Beyond Academics: Why All-Round Development Matters

In the 21st century, success depends not just on knowledge, but on adaptability, creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. Extracurricular activities in child development are powerful tools to build these essential life skills. Research also shows that these activities stimulate different areas of the brain and positively impact overall development—including memory, attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation.  

Types of Extracurricular Activities and Their Benefits

Let’s explore some of the most popular extracurricular activities and how each contributes to a child’s mental, emotional, social, and physical growth.

1. Sports and Physical Activities (e.g., Football, Basketball, Karate)

  • Body: Improves strength, coordination, stamina, and overall physical fitness
  • Mind: Enhances concentration, goal-setting, and stress relief
  • Skills Developed: Discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience
Physical activities help children regulate energy, reduce anxiety, and sleep better. Regular movement also supports brain development through better blood flow and the release of feel-good endorphins.

2. Performing Arts (Dance & Music )

  • Body: Enhances rhythm, posture, breathing control, and fine motor skills
  • Mind: Stimulates creativity, memory retention, and emotional intelligence
  • Skills Developed: Public speaking, self-confidence, emotional expression
These educational activities for students help them connect with their feelings, express ideas creatively, and perform in front of others—building confidence from a young age.

3. Visual Arts (Drawing, Painting, craft)

  • Body: Refines hand-eye coordination and motor control
  • Mind: Encourages imagination, focus, and problem-solving
  • Skills Developed: Innovation, visual-spatial thinking, patience
In young children, especially in activities for kindergarten, art enhances brain development by engaging both hemispheres—boosting creativity and observation skills.

4. Academic Clubs (Science Club, Math Club, Coding, Robotics)

  • Body: Fine motor engagement in hands-on activities (e.g., assembling robots)
  • Mind: Strengthens logical reasoning, innovation, and critical thinking
  • Skills Developed: Teamwork, experimentation, STEM proficiency
Clubs like these transform classroom learning into real-world applications. They’re especially impactful for children with analytical or tech-oriented interests.

5. Literary Activities (Book Clubs)

  • Body: Enhances voice control and articulation
  • Mind: Builds vocabulary, reasoning, and memory
  • Skills Developed: Communication, persuasion, confidence, active listening
Such programs boost cognitive function and linguistic intelligence—giving children tools to express themselves clearly and thoughtfully.

6. Life Skill Programs ( Gardening )

  • Body: Teaches practical, real-world physical activities
  • Mind: Cultivates empathy, responsibility, and self-reliance
  • Skills Developed: Leadership, service mindset, environmental awareness
These activities are essential for shaping a child’s values and worldview—developing a strong character and a sense of purpose.  

Brain and Body Benefits at a Glance

 
Activity Type Body Development Mind Development
Sports  Physical fitness, agility Focus, discipline, stress relief
Performing Arts Posture, movement, coordination Creativity, confidence, memory
Visual Arts Motor skills, hand coordination Imagination, observation, patience
Academic Clubs Fine motor (hands-on tools) Problem-solving, logical reasoning
Literary Programs Voice projection, articulation Communication, critical thinking
Life Skills Practical physical tasks Empathy, social responsibility

 

5 Key Benefits of Extracurricular Activities

 

1. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

From scoring a goal to performing on stage, achievements outside the classroom make children believe in their abilities.

2. Builds Social Skills and Teamwork

Working in teams teaches cooperation, respect, and empathy—skills vital in school and life.

3. Improves Time Management

Balancing schoolwork and extracurriculars teaches students how to plan, prioritize, and follow through.

4. Sparks Passion and Purpose

When children explore new fields—whether coding, or cricket—they discover what excites them.

5. Supports Academic and Career Growth

Well-rounded profiles are valued in college admissions and future jobs. The importance of extracurricular activities lies in how they nurture leadership, creativity, and initiative. Even top Montessori schools in HSR Layout build their programs around the idea that experiential learning leads to deeper development.  

Conclusion: A Child Who Explores, Excels

At CMR Gandhi Public School, we believe every child is unique—and their education should reflect that. Our wide variety of extracurricular programs ensures that every student gets the chance to explore their interests, develop core life skills, and become confident learners. As one of the best schools in HSR Layout, we offer a supportive environment where academics and extracurriculars go hand-in-hand to foster complete development. Encourage your child to explore beyond the classroom. You might just help them discover their passion—and shape their future.
Read more
How Parents Can Support Homework Without Doing It for Their Child

June 21, 2025 4 minutes

Introduction

Children don’t just learn at school—they carry that learning home. And as a parent, it's natural to want to help. But support doesn’t mean solving every math problem or rewriting their essay. True support lies in helping your child become independent, responsible, and confident in their academic journey. At CMR Gandhi Public School, we believe that when parents understand their role in homework, students thrive not only in academics but also in life.

The Value of Independence in a Child’s Learning Journey

Homework is more than just an academic task—it’s an opportunity for children to build self-discipline, time management, and a sense of accomplishment. But when parents step in too much, it can rob children of the chance to struggle, fail, learn, and succeed on their own terms. Let’s explore the right way on how to  help your kids with homework children with homework—one that empowers, not enables.

1. Understand the Role of Homework

Reinforcement of Classroom Learning
Homework allows students to revisit concepts introduced in class. It strengthens their understanding, fills in gaps, and helps them apply knowledge independently.
Encouraging Discipline and Responsibility
When children are encouraged to manage homework on their own, they develop key life skills like prioritization, perseverance, and self-motivation. That’s why parents who can help with homework should focus more on guidance than correction.

2. Create a Supportive Environment

Dedicated Homework Space
Set up a consistent place at home for study—quiet, well-lit, and away from distractions. It signals to your child that this is a time for focus, not play.
Distraction-Free Surroundings
Put away digital devices (unless needed for research), turn off the TV, and minimize interruptions during homework time. These small changes help children stay engaged and attentive.

3. Establish a Routine

Importance of Consistency
Routine helps children know what to expect. Set a fixed time for homework each day so it becomes a non-negotiable part of their daily rhythm.
Linking Homework to Daily Schedule
Encourage children to complete homework before screen time or play. This creates a healthy balance and a sense of reward once responsibilities are completed. Schools known for holistic development, like the best schools in Sarjapur Road, often recommend parents create structured learning environments at home too.

4. Be a Guide, Not a Doer

Asking Guiding Questions
Instead of giving answers, try asking questions like:
  • “What’s the first step here?”
  • “What do you remember from class?”
  • “Can you try solving this another way?”
This encourages critical thinking and builds confidence.
Encouraging Problem-Solving
When parents jump in with solutions, children become passive learners. But when they’re allowed to struggle just enough, they develop resilience. Parental involvement in homework should empower children to solve, reflect, and grow.

5. Communicate with Teachers

Understanding Expectations
Teachers assign homework with a purpose. If your child is struggling frequently, it might indicate a learning gap. Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers for clarity on the scope and expected outcomes.

Sharing Concerns

Open communication allows teachers to adjust strategies or offer additional support. Whether it’s too much homework or unclear instructions, sharing concerns helps everyone stay aligned. For families looking beyond Sarjapur, many schools in HSR Layout also promote transparent communication and parental partnership in academic success.

Conclusion: Raising Independent Learners

The goal of homework is not perfection—it’s progress. And the goal of parental support is not completion—it’s confidence. When you support your child the right way, they not only become better students but also better problem-solvers. At CMR Gandhi Public School, we encourage parental partnerships that nurture growth, not dependency. A small shift in approach today can help your child build a future rooted in responsibility and self-belief.
Read more
Crack the Olympiads: Smart Tips to Help Kids Prepare and Succeed

May 21, 2025 4 minutes

Olympiad exams are much more than just academic competitions—they are stepping stones toward holistic development. These highly respected national and international-level assessments challenge students to apply what they’ve learned in class to real-world scenarios, sharpening their thinking skills along the way. At CMR Gandhi Public School, a leading CBSE school in HSR Layout, we believe that early exposure to Olympiads can open doors to a world of intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning. Let’s explore why Olympiads are important, how children can start preparing early, and smart strategies to help them succeed, while keeping their love for learning alive.

1. Why Olympiads Matter in a Student’s Academic Journey

Olympiad exams such as the National Science Olympiad (NSO), International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO), and others are structured to test more than just textbook knowledge. They assess:
  • Logical reasoning
  • Application-based problem solving
  • Analytical skills
These competitive exams give students the opportunity to stretch their minds beyond the regular syllabus and gain confidence in tackling challenging problems. Whether your child is in Montessori or middle school, preparing for Olympiads early builds the foundation for academic excellence in the years ahead.  

2. Benefits of Olympiad Exams for Kids

Olympiads offer more than just certificates or medals. They provide long-term benefits that support your child’s academic and personal growth.

1. Enhances Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking

Olympiads encourage children to think critically and solve complex problems. This helps them apply classroom knowledge in new, meaningful ways.

2. Builds a Strong Academic Foundation

The syllabus is aligned with school curricula but presented in a more application-driven format. This strengthens concepts early on.

3. Boosts Confidence and Competitive Spirit

Participating in Olympiads helps children become more self-assured, motivated, and comfortable with healthy competition—skills that are crucial both in and outside the classroom. 

4. Exposure to National and International Standards

Competing with peers across India and abroad gives students a broader view of where they stand academically and inspires them to aim higher. At CMR Gandhi Public School, one of the best CBSE schools in HSR Layout Bangalore, we encourage participation in Olympiads starting from the primary levels.

3. When Should Kids Start Preparing?

While Olympiad exams are available from as early as Grade 1, starting preparation depends on the child’s readiness and interest.

Ideal Age or Grade to Begin

Grades 1 to 3 are perfect for a light introduction, focusing on fundamentals through fun exercises. From Grade 4 onwards, students can begin serious preparation aligned with specific Olympiads.

Creating an Early Learning Routine

Introduce learning as a daily habit rather than a pressure-driven task. Use puzzles, logic games, or story-based questions to make it enjoyable, especially in Montessori or early primary years.

Involving Parents and Teachers

Parental involvement is key. Parents can help in setting study goals, discussing problem-solving strategies, and keeping motivation high. Teachers, on the other hand, can guide the child’s preparation with structured support and feedback.

4. Smart Tips to Prepare for Olympiad Exams

Olympiad preparation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both children and parents.

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Each Olympiad has its own format. Begin by understanding the syllabus, number of questions, difficulty level, and marking scheme.

2. Use the Right Resources

Invest in age-appropriate Olympiad books and use online learning platforms that offer interactive practice tests. Some helpful resources include:
  • Workbooks tailored to NSO, IMO, etc.
  • Previous year question papers
  • Mock test platforms with analytics

3. Focus on Conceptual Clarity

Avoid rote learning. Instead, make sure your child understands the why behind every answer. Conceptual understanding ensures long-term retention and confidence in application.

4. Set a Regular Study Schedule

Consistency is key. Create a balanced timetable that includes 30–45 minutes of Olympiad prep a few times a week.

5. Practice Mock Tests and Previous Papers

Solving mock tests under timed conditions improves speed and accuracy. Reviewing incorrect answers helps identify weak areas for improvement.

5. Balancing Olympiad Prep with Regular Studies

Preparing for Olympiads should complement school studies, not compete with them.

Time Management Tips

  • Use weekends for focused Olympiad prep.
  • Break tasks into small, manageable chunks.
  • Prioritise based on school curriculum overlaps.

Keeping Stress in Check

Watch out for signs of burnout or pressure. Remind your child that Olympiads are learning tools—not high-stakes exams. Encourage progress over perfection.

Include Breaks and Fun Activities

Balance is important. Schedule regular breaks, physical activities, and creative hobbies to keep your child refreshed and motivated. At CMR Gandhi Public School, one of the most Montessori-friendly schools in HSR Layout, we emphasise joyful learning alongside academic excellence. We make sure that Olympiad preparation never comes at the cost of your child’s well-being.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Journey

Olympiad success is not just about scores or medals. It’s about helping children become independent thinkers and confident learners. Whether your child is taking their first step into competitive exams or aiming for a top rank, the goal is growth and development.

Motivation and Mindset for Success

Keep your child inspired by celebrating small wins and efforts. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building resilience and self-belief.

Encourage Continuous Learning

Even after the Olympiad season is over, keep the spark alive by exploring other challenges like quizzes, reading programs, or coding for kids.

Celebrate Efforts as Much as Achievements

A child who prepares, participates, and learns from the experience is already successful. Recognising their efforts keeps their love for learning strong. At CMR Gandhi Public School, the best CBSE school in HSR Layout, we nurture students with a balanced approach, focusing not only on academic achievements but also on emotional and intellectual growth. From Montessori-level foundations to advanced learning opportunities like Olympiads, we prepare children to thrive in every sphere of life.
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