A Glimpse from a Delhi Private School Sharjah Classroom
Innovation in a primary classroom does not always arrive through big ideas or elaborate plans. Sometimes, it quietly unfolds during everyday routines – in the middle of a fruit break, a casual conversation, or a simple question that carries a deeper understanding.
In our Grade 1 UW lesson on My Amazing Body, learning goes far beyond naming body parts. It becomes a living, breathing practice of caring for ourselves.
As the morning settles in, breakfast boxes open, and with them begins an unexpected discussion.
“Ma’am, this is healthy food,” one child proudly announces, holding up a neatly packed meal.
Another quickly adds, “We should not eat too much junk food. It is bad for our body.”
No chart was needed in that moment — the concept of healthy eating had already found its place.
Fruit break brings its own excitement. Small hands eagerly unpack colorful fruits, and suddenly, the classroom turns into a space of shared knowledge.
“This is the fruit of the month!” one child declares confidently.
“And this is the nut of the month,” another adds, carefully opening a tiny container.
What began as a routine has now become awareness – choices being made with understanding.
In between bites, a proud voice shares,
“Ma’am, I joined karate class. It is good for my health.”
A simple statement, yet it reflects something powerful – the connection between physical activity and well-being is already forming at such a young age.
And just when the teacher thinks she is guiding the lesson, the roles gently shift.
A concerned little voice looks up and asks,
“Ma’am, when will you drink water?”
Another follows quickly,
“You didn’t eat your fruit!”
In that moment, the lesson on health and hygiene is no longer teacher-led – it is owned by the students.
Hygiene, too, finds its place in small, consistent actions.
“Wash hands before eating,” someone reminds a friend.
“Use tissue,” another adds during a sneeze.
These are not rehearsed responses. They are habits taking shape.
At DPS Sharjah, learning is not confined to textbooks or worksheets. It lives in these everyday exchanges – where children begin to understand that taking care of their body is their responsibility.
The real innovation lies here:
In a child choosing fruit over chips.
In reminding a friend to stay clean and healthy.
In recognizing that exercise, food, and habits all work together.
Because when children start caring for their own well-being – and gently remind others to do the same – that is where true learning happens.
And in these small, meaningful moments, we see it clearly:
Healthy habits are not taught.
They are lived.
Beena Menon: DPS Staff
