Introduction
The session began with an introduction by Sneha Sengupta, COO of MKEF. Sneha outlined the organization’s mission, vision, and ongoing initiatives. She also introduced the facilitators and set a warm, welcoming tone for the day, helping the children feel at ease and ready to engage with the topics.
Session Content and Activities
Pillar 1: Good Touch and Bad Touch
Led by Sneha Sengupta, this segment provided children with clear guidelines on distinguishing between appropriate and inappropriate physical interactions. Using age-appropriate language and real-life examples, Sneha empowered the children to recognize, respond to, and report uncomfortable situations confidently.
Pillar 2: Bullying
This segment was conducted by Sneha and Kavya, who explained the concept of bullying and its effects on mental health. Sneha and Kavya encouraged open discussions, helping children identify bullying behaviors and providing strategies to deal with them effectively. They created a safe space where children felt heard and supported.
Pillar 3: Depression
Sishir led the discussion on depression, tailoring the content to the children’s level of understanding. He emphasized the importance of expressing emotions, recognizing prolonged sadness, and seeking help when necessary. Through relatable examples, Sishir made the topic approachable and actionable.
Pillar 4: Anxiety
Kavya introduced the concept of anxiety, helping children understand its triggers and impacts. She explained stress management techniques in simple terms. Following this, Neel guided the children through effective coping strategies, including relaxation exercises they could practice in their daily lives.
Pillar 5: Low Self-Esteem
Sishir concluded the session by addressing the topic of self-esteem. Through interactive discussions, he encouraged the children to appreciate their unique qualities and strengths, promoting a positive sense of self-worth. Activities and affirmations helped reinforce this message.
Conclusion
The session on October 26, 2024, was a meaningful experience for the children at Sath Trust. Each facilitator contributed to fostering a safe and nurturing space where children could learn and grow. The combination of engaging discussions, interactive activities, and practical tools left the children better equipped to handle mental health challenges and embrace a positive outlook on life.