In the Kukda gram panchayat of Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district, a humble classroom waits in eager silence. The air carries a sense of anticipation as a group of preschool children sit cross-legged, eyes glued to the door of the anganwadi centre.

Then, the door opens. The moment Abhilasha steps in, their faces light up with pure joy. Her bag overflows with treasures: clay, storybooks, number cards, colourful beaded ropes, vegetable illustrations, and an assortment of toys meant to spark learning.

A day in the life of a mentor mother

Abhilasha, a ‘mentor mother’, begins her day by distributing learning kits. Tiny hands dive into the clay, moulding shapes and refining their fine motor skills. Others start counting beads, taking their first steps in arithmetic. Slowly, the room transforms into a vibrant stage of creativity and curiosity.

“A magical transformation unfolds before me,” Abhilasha says, her voice carrying a mix of pride and wonder. “I watch as shy glances are replaced with curiosity, and hesitant voices find the courage to ask ‘why’ and ‘how’. In these moments, true learning begins.”

She narrates classic tales like The Rabbit and the Tortoise to teach moral values and patience to children aged three to six years. “These children not only gain academic skills but also learn about social skills and empathy. We have noticed behavioural changes too. They learn patience, and at home, they have started organising their almirahs, keeping shoes in order, and understanding cleanliness,” she adds.

Learning beyond classrooms

Miles away, in Jhalpa village, laughter echoes inside Hemlata’s modest home. Here, clinking utensils of different sizes and shapes turn into learning tools, and fresh vegetables become colourful teaching aids.

As children gather, Hemlata asks, “What vegetables did your parents bring home this week?” With this, she sparks a guessing game of red tomatoes, leafy greens, and purple brinjals. These simple, everyday items help children recognise colours, shapes, and numbers with ease.

“The villagers notice these changes too,” Hemlata shares. “Parents speak of children who once hid behind them now confidently reciting poems and introducing themselves without a catch in their voices.”

For Hemlata and........

© The Better India