Im planning to quit school!” Raj announced as he threw his school bag on our sofa.
More trouble?” I asked. This wasnt his first such announce-ment.
The school bullies just wont stop harassing me. How I wish I were taller!” He attacked the samosas as if they were his worst enemies.
Raj, my younger brother, had been complaining about his lack of inches for a long time. He was the most diminutive boy in his class which was causing him some ‘problems.
I made the mistake of trying to minimize his concern. I dont understand what the big deal is! So, youre short now, but youll grow someday!”
He looked daggers at me. What do you know about my problem? Youre a girl, and girls dont need to be tall!”
That sexist comment deser-ved a well-aimed smack, but I ignored it. What happened?”
My class teacher annou-nced a plant-a-tree contest today. Every student has to partner with a friend and plant a tree in the school garden and take turns water-ing it. At the end of the year, the most healthy tree wins!”
So, whats the problem? Is Ravi sick or something?” I asked.
Hes not sick, just scared!” he said. I gave him a blank stare. I got into a small fight with the class bully! Im sure hell think twice before calling me ‘Shorty again
Raj looked out of the window and sighed. Now he and his friends have frightened everybody and Im left without a partner!”
For some reason, I tried to recollect every small or big trouble that my little brother had caused me.
I can never win this contest all by myself!” he exclaimed.
Hey, thats hardly a problem!” I surprised myself. Ill be your partner
The little brats face lit up with a smile, Really? You will?”
I suppressed a smile. Isnt that what families are for?
– Sangeetha Narayan
Teacher’s Corner:
Add variety to your class by getting parents more involved.
Here are some ideas:
§ Make one day every week/month ‘Parents Day. Working Saturdays may fit the bill.
§ Ask volunteer parents to come and entertain the class for 30-40 minutes. They can plan group games, teach a craft, or tell the class some interesting travel or adventure stories.
