Deeksha, a quiet and observant 5-year-old girl residing in Kashele, has a penchant for quietly observing the world around her. Her story, as she ventured into the world of Anganwadi, is one of growth and curiosity.

When Deeksha first attended Anganwadi, she appeared timid and reserved. Her initial hesitance to interact with others led me to believe that she might be apprehensive about the new environment. Anganwadi encourages children to engage in various activities and allows them to name and express themselves freely. Deeksha, however, chose to observe her peers quietly.

Over time, as she witnessed the joy and learning experiences of her fellow children, Deeksha began to gradually immerse herself in the activities. The structured rules at Anganwadi, which were communicated to the children daily, resonated with her. She not only adhered to these rules but also took it upon herself to guide others when they didn't. Deeksha's curiosity blossomed as she interacted with her peers and explored new experiences.

Every day after returning from Anganwadi, Deeksha would eagerly ask, "What fun activities do we have planned for tomorrow?" Her enthusiasm warmed my heart, as it signaled her growing comfort and trust in the Anganwadi environment. Deeksha was learning to express her opinions, a significant milestone in her development.

Deeksha's family, facing financial constraints with her father working as a laborer and her mother caring for her younger brother Karthik, was supportive of her education. Despite their challenges, Deeksha insisted on wearing different clothes each day, inspired by her friends at Anganwadi. Her desire to fit in and her ability to express her feelings marked an important achievement in our efforts to build trust.

Visiting Deeksha's home revealed positive feedback from her parents, who welcomed any assistance for her education. Deeksha's love for learning was evident as she diligently revised her studies, particularly in Marathi, her mother tongue. She also displayed a keen interest in English, reflecting her eagerness to acquire knowledge in diverse subjects.

Deeksha's journey at Anganwadi begins each day with the same question, "What are you going to do today?" It encapsulates her curiosity, eagerness to learn, and her evolving ability to express herself. With the support of her family and the nurturing environment at Anganwadi, Deeksha's educational journey holds great promise.

©Samaaveshi Pathshaala, 2024