Counselling and Special Education
The Grades IX and XI Mindful Parenting Session
Pune, Maharashtra | 26th July, 2025
Mindful Parenting session for the parents of the students from Grades IX and XI was conducted on 26th July, 2025. Also held in the school auditorium, this session focused on the broader theme of mindfulness and its application in everyday parenting. Parents were introduced to practical ways of incorporating mindfulness into their lives — especially in making career-related decisions for their children, handling stress effectively, reducing screen time, and fostering a calm, emotionally aware home environment.
The second session was led by key members of the counselling team: Ms. Sabitha Pramod, Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni and Ms. Payal Shah; and career counsellor, Ms. Susmita Roy. Their collective insights and experience provided parents with a deeper understanding of how mindful practices can be seamlessly integrated into parenting and daily life. The sessions were interactive, informative, and well-received by the attendees.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; administrative manager, Mr. Manish Dhekale; career counsellor, Ms. Susmita Roy; and the Counselling Department faculty for their constant support and for facilitating these meaningful initiatives that align with the school’s vision for nurturing responsible and emotionally resilient learners.
Unwrapping Giftedness:
The Grade V Gifted Students’ Programme
Pune, Maharashtra | 26th July, 2025
On 26th July, 2025, S.B. Patil Public School, in collaboration with the Kaveri Gifted Education and Research Center (KGERC), organised an enlightening session for the parents of Grade V students. The session was conducted by Dr. Sameena Manasawala, Head – Nurturing Domain, KGERC, and Ms. Kasturi Hapse, In-charge – Identification and Assessments, KGERC.
The interactive and informative session aimed to familiarise parents with the concept of giftedness — what it truly means, how it manifests in children, and why early identification is vital. Dr. Manasawala and Ms. Hapse along with the school counselling team: Ms. Sabitha Pramod, Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni and Ms. Payal Shah elaborated on the typical traits of gifted learners, such as advanced reasoning skills, heightened curiosity, emotional depth, creativity, and an intense drive to explore and learn beyond the classroom.
They also explained the comprehensive selection procedure and the scientifically developed assessment criteria used to identify gifted students. Furthermore, the session introduced parents to the philosophy and framework of the Gifted Programme, highlighting how it is designed to cater to the intellectual, emotional, and creative needs of these students.
They spoke about the enrichment opportunities provided through the programme — including differentiated instruction, mentorship, problem-solving modules, and project-based learning — all aimed at nurturing potential while ensuring holistic development.
The session concluded with an open Q&A segment, allowing parents to raise concerns, clarify doubts, and understand how they could support their child's unique journey both at home and in school.
We thank our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; administrative manager, Mr. Manish Dhekale; the entire team from KGERC; and our school counselling team for their invaluable support in making this session a success.
The Senior KG Mindful Parenting Session
Pune, Maharashtra | 12th July, 2025
As part of its continued efforts to promote holistic development and emotional well-being within the school community, the Guidance and Counselling Department of S.B. Patil Public School conducted two enriching sessions in July 2025, focusing on mindfulness and mindful parenting.
The first session, held on 12th July, 2025, was organised specifically for Senior KG parents and took place in the school auditorium from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This session aimed to equip parents with essential knowledge and strategies to understand and support their child’s developmental journey.
The topics covered included understanding child development, the four pillars of development, and the concept of mindful parenting. The session further explored key aspects such as positive communication, balancing screen time with quality time, the importance of food and nutrition, encouraging independence, mindful disciplining, and the positive outcomes of such an approach.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; administrative manager, Mr. Manish Dhekale; and the counselling team: counselling team: Ms. Sabitha Pramod, Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni, and Ms. Payal Shah for conducting this meaningful session
Hosting Mindful Parenting Sessions for Parents, Part II
Pune, Maharashtra | 14th June, 2025
Akin to the prior session held on 26th April, 2025, on 14th June, 2025, the Counselling Department of S.B. Patil Public School conducted an enriching session on Mindful Parenting for the parents of Grade 3 and 4 students. The workshop aimed to equip parents with practical strategies to foster a nurturing, balanced, and supportive environment for their children’s growth.
The session began with an introduction to mindfulness, emphasising the importance of being present and attentive in everyday interactions with children. Parents were guided through simple mindfulness exercises and learnt how mindful practices can help reduce stress, improve communication, and strengthen the parent–child bond.
A segment was dedicated to the role of nutrition in children’s physical and cognitive development. Parents received valuable tips on planning balanced meals, encouraging healthy eating habits, and understanding the impact of nutrition on children’s mood, concentration, and overall well-being
The counsellors then discussed positive discipline techniques, focusing on setting clear expectations, using encouragement, and guiding children with empathy and consistency. Parents were encouraged to shift from punitive measures to constructive approaches that promote responsibility and self-discipline.
The session also highlighted the crucial role of special educators in supporting diverse learners. Parents learnt about the resources and support systems available at school, and how collaboration between parents, teachers, and special educators can help every child reach their full potential
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where parents shared their experiences and sought guidance on specific concerns. The positive feedback reflected the parents’ appreciation for the practical insights and supportive atmosphere.
S.B. Patil Public School remains committed to empowering parents and building strong partnerships for the holistic development of every child. We thank all the parents who participated and look forward to more such collaborative initiatives in the future.
Five Days, Three Gs, and a Thousand Discoveries:
Priyesh’s Experience at the Kaveri Talent Camp
Pune, Maharashtra | 23rd to 27th April, 2025
The Kaveri Group organised a five days-four nights talent camp outside the hustle of the city at Kaveri Internation School, Lohegaon. Priyesh Patil of Grade VIII was selected to be part of this camp. The following is his testimony
My name in Priyesh Pal, and I am studying in Grade VIII at S.B. Patil Public School. It is a privilege to be selected to be part of this presitigious camp. My name was recommended by my class teacher and section coordinator. . It was a camp for selected students from different schools in Pune
I had to take an exam conducted by Kaveri Group and after clearing it I was selected for it. It was a 5-day residential camp where students were taught about the 3 Gs namely Geometry, Genetics and Geospatial. It was a very interesting and informative camp for me. Each day I got to know many fascinating facts about the topics taught.
Each day we had to get up at six o’clock and do yoga. After yoga we had our breakfast. Our classes would start at nine o'clock and each class was of two hours. Our first class was Geometry and second class was of Genetics. Then we would have our lunch. After lunch our class would start at two o’clock and our last class was of Geospatial. After each class we would get some refreshing drinks to keep us hydrated in the April heat
In the evening we would play games, have snacks and would go for evening prayer. Then we had our dinner and after that we went to bed by 10:30 PM. This process continued for four days. On the fourth day we went to a nearby temple. We went there as it was related to ‘Panchakosha’, on which we were learning in the camp. On the last day we had to present what we had done in those five days in front of our parents. This presentation was a group activity.
Chief guests for the presentation ceremony were teachers of Kaveri Group of Schools; and Mr. Arnab Das, a former navy officer and Global Maritime expert. Additionally, each group had to come up with two unanswered questions.
There were a lot of things to learn from those classes. In Geometry, I learnt how triangles are the strongest of all the shapes. In Genetics, I learnt about genes and why a child looks like his/her parents. And in Geospatial, I learnt about satellites and how we can see maps in our mobile phones. At last, I understood how these 3 Gs are linked together. Though this was the first time I was staying away from my family, I made new friends there. I would like to say that we must get opportunities for attending such camps.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Rucha Ma’am, Vandana Madam and Principal Madam.
Thank you!” — Priyesh Pal (VIII-G)
Balancing Boundaries and Bonding:
A Guide to Mindful Parenting for Grade VIII Parents
Pune, Maharashtra | 26th April, 2025
In a progressive step towards nurturing more mindful and emotionally attuned parent-child relationships, the Guidance and Counselling Department of S.B. Patil Public School organised an enriching session on Mindful Parenting for the parents of Grade VIII students on 26th April, 2025.
The session opened by exploring the essence of mindful parenting: the art of being fully present with one's child, listening with empathy and without judgement. Parents were encouraged to cultivate calm, conscious responses over reactive behaviour, thereby deepening the emotional bond with their children.
The counsellors elaborated on different parenting styles, highlighting the impact of authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful approaches. Emphasis was placed on the authoritative style — a balance of warmth, responsiveness, and clear boundaries — as the most effective in promoting a child's independence with guidance.
Key aspects of mindful parenting were thoroughly discussed, including:
1. Positive Communication: Active listening, consistent reinforcement, healthy dialogue, and developing routines while allowing personal space were championed as vital strategies.
2. Screen Time versus Quality Time: Parents were urged to prioritise outdoor play, family bonding over meals, and setting gentle yet consistent boundaries around digital consumption. Practical suggestions, such as the '20-20 rule' and using board games or cooking sessions for engagement, were shared
3. Food and Nutrition: The importance of introducing food positively, promoting balanced colourful meals, and understanding food psychology in relation to behaviour and mood swings were highlighted. Making mealtimes enjoyable was encouraged as a subtle but powerful parenting tool.
The session also addressed Mindful Disciplining, where the focus should be on guiding behaviour rather than criticising character. Techniques such as offering choices, modelling desired behaviours, establishing clear consequences, and favouring time-outs over punishments were recommended.
Parents were also introduced to the positive outcomes of adopting mindful parenting strategies, including stronger parent-child relationships, improved emotional regulation, reduced conflicts, enhanced cooperation, and greater self-esteem in children.
Additionally, the role of the Special Educator, Mr Sujay Ghule, was discussed, underscoring the support provided for students with special needs through assessments, Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), curriculum adaptations, and collaboration with teachers, therapists, and parents
The interactive session concluded with a lively Q&A segment, allowing parents to seek practical advice and clarifications. The overwhelming participation and feedback reflected the community's genuine commitment to fostering healthier and more mindful parenting practices
S.B. Patil Public School continues to affirm its dedication to not only academic excellence but also holistic emotional development, equipping families to raise confident, empathetic, and resilient young individuals
We thank the school counsellors, Ms. Sabitha Pramodh and Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni; the wellness coach, Ms. Payal Shah; and the special educator, Mr. Sujay Ghule for carrying out this wonderful session. We also thank our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavari Banda; and the administrative manager, Mr. Manish Dhekale for their support and to help organise the event
Building Self-esteem in Grade V Students:
A Counselling and Wellness Department Activity
Pune, Maharashtra | January 2025
As part of the school’s ongoing commitment to nurturing emotional intelligence and holistic development, the Counselling and Wellness Department conducted a Self-Esteem Building Activity for Grade V students throughout the month of January 2025. The initiative aimed to help learners recognise their individuality, appreciate their strengths, and reflect upon areas for personal growth through a creative and introspective experience.
The central objective of the session was to foster self-awareness and confidence by enabling students to explore and express their unique identities in a fun, artistic, and meaningful way. The activity encouraged children to identify their positive qualities, values, and traits, while also acknowledging areas of improvement — reinforcing the message that self-acceptance is the foundation of personal growth.
During the session, students were provided with old magazines, newspapers, and picture books to create their own “My Self-Collage.” They selected and cut out images, words, and symbols that best represented their emotions, skills, interests, and values. Each collage symbolised how the students perceived themselves — both inside and out. The classrooms were filled with enthusiasm and reflection as students eagerly searched for meaningful visuals, discussed their choices with peers, and shared insights about what qualities and values mattered most to them. Teachers and the school counsellor guided the children throughout the process, reinforcing the importance of embracing both strengths and limitations with compassion and understanding.
At the end of the activity, every student presented their collage, explaining the significance of their chosen images. These sharing moments were heartfelt and inspiring, fostering empathy, openness, and peer appreciation. The exercise not only strengthened emotional intelligence but also created an atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement within the classroom.
The activity had a profound impact on students, enhancing their self-awareness, confidence, and emotional understanding. It provided an avenue for creative expression while cultivating a positive classroom climate rooted in acceptance and inclusivity.
The Counselling and Wellness Department extends heartfelt appreciation to principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; and headmaster, Ms. Shubhangi Kulkarni for their unwavering support of wellbeing-focused initiatives. Sincere gratitude is also expressed to the Grade V teachers for their active involvement and guidance, ensuring that each child felt valued, confident, and empowered to embrace their individuality with pride.
Mental Health Week in Pictures
Pune, Maharashtra | 4th to 10th October, 2024
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Prioritising Mental Health:
Celebrating Mental Health Week
Pune, Maharashtra | 4th to 10th October, 2024
The importance of mental health cannot be overstated as it plays a crucial role in our overall quality of life. Good mental health enhances our ability to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and achieve personal and professional goals.
By prioritising mental health, we foster a more productive, supportive, and understanding society, where individuals feel valued and capable of reaching their full potential. Promoting mental well-being is essential not just for individuals, but for communities and society as a whole.
Mental Health Week was celebrated in at S.B. Patil Public School from 4th to 10th October, 2024. As a part of Mental Health Week many activities were conducted by Counselling Department in the respective classes and they were oriented about Mental Health.
Topics covered under the orientation were:
1. The importance of mental health
2. Tips for prioritising mental health
3. Activities for students
4. Positive strategies and negative strategies of mental wellbeing
Activities conducted under Mental Health for Grades IV and V were as follows:
1. Slogan making activity
2. Poster making
3. Role play
4. Gratitude note
5. Gratitude poster making
Activities conducted for Grades VI to X were as follows:
1. Poster and chart making
2. Slogan writing
3. Role play
4. Gratitude note
5. Gratitude poster making
We thank the Counselling Department led by Ms. Sabitha Pramodh, Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni and Ms. Payal Shah for conducting these interactive activities that helped students understand and prioritise their own and others’ mental health.
On Adolescence, Puberty and Hygiene:
A Session for the Grade VIII and IX Boys
Pune, Maharashtra | 14th September, 2024
On 14th September, the team from the Me to We Foundation, which conducted a prior session on adolescence and puberty in boys for their fathers on 29th June, 2024, conducted the second part of the session on 14th September, 2024. The session was aimed at the audience of boy students of Grades VIII and IX as the speakers spoke about adolescence, puberty and hygiene. The following is their testimony:
“The Me to We Mission 2034 is registered NGO working towards Men Empowerment and Gender Neutrality, The team includes: Mr. Debarshi Chakraborty, Dr. Priya Parekh, Dr. Purva Ketkar and Ms. Rucha Khot. We conducted yet another successful session on puberty and adolescence at S.B. Patil Public School, Ravet.
Phase 1 was a workshop conducted for the fathers of teenage boys wherein emphasis was given on creating an open channel of communication between fathers and their teenage sons. Steps to initiate discussion of puberty changes were discussed and was well appreciated by the fathers.
Phase 2 of the workshop was for the teenagers boys of Grades VIII and IX. This was conducted on 14th September, 2024 at the school’s campus.
Around 240 boys participated. The mantra was “Google baba se nahin, apne baba se poocho”. The workshop was immensely appreciated as such topics often unexplored and never spoken to boys directly were discussed openly. The number of questions posed were encouraging as well as interesting as the team answered all queries patiently
The progressive thoughts of the school has lead to another successful session.” – Dr. Priya Parekh
Talking Taboo:
A Much-Needed Session on Understanding Puberty in Adolescent Boys
Pune, Maharashtra | 29th June, 2024
On 29th June, 2024, a session on "Understanding Adolescence" was conducted for the parents - especially fathers - of the male students of Grades VIII and IX.
The session was held by Dr. Priya Parekh, a skin and hair specialist at Bhandarkar Road since last 15 years. She founded the Me to We Mission 2034 in 2019. She believes every empowered man can create an empowered family.
Ms. Sebarshi Chakraborty has a masters in cyber law and security; is an electrical engineering alumni from NIT Surathkal; is also an experienced IT professional; has more than 24 years of industry experience; is currently engaged in working with the State and Central Government of India and other South Asian and African countries for policy and road map study and ana lysis; and lead board member of two NGOs.
The speakers spoke freely on topics related to puberty in boys; the myriad physical, hormonal, behavioural changes and challenges they face during this time. They stressed on how parents need to be open about these topics rather than treating them as taboo.
They requested, especially fathers to understand and personally address these issues, and be heroes to their sons, rather than letting their children learn from other sources. The session emphasised on bringing normalcy to talking about sensitive topics in households so that growing children can easily approach parents regarding issues they face.
The immensely intense and interactive session was a much-needed one for both parents and faculty to understand how to handle students in puberty.
We thank our speakers, Dr. Parekh and Ms. Chakraborty for lending us their valuable time and insight; we thank our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; HM, Ms. Shubhangi Kulkarni; the section coordinators: Ms. Darshana Kamat, Ms. Nirupama Kale, and Ms. Vandana Sangle; and the administrative manager, Mr. Manish Dhekale for organising this event.
Towards Mental Wellbeing:
The Mental Health Awareness Week Sessions
Pune, Maharashtra |4th to 10th October, 2023
Our school celebrated Mental Health Awareness Week from 4th to 10th October. As part of the programme, the school counsellor, Ms. Sabitha Pramodh conducted mental health and wellbeing awareness sessions for students of Grade IX and X. Topics included: an awareness session for Grade IX students; role-play for Xth graders; and positive note-making, poster making, and sending notes of gratitude note to one other for both grades.
Through these sessions, students were made aware of why mental health needs to be given equal importance as physical health, ways in which one can better one’s mental health, and methods to cope with the stress and strains of daily life.
We congratulate all students for participating so enthusiastically.
We also thank our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; and especially our school counsellor, Ms. Sabitha Parmodh for organising these sessions.
A Talk on Adolescence and Teenage Issues :
In Conversation with Dr. Kothale
Pune, Maharashtra | 9th September, 2023
On 9th September, 2023, a talk and discussion was organised for S.B. Patil Public School’s faculty with Dr. Sujata Kothale. The talk was on adolescence and teenage issues faced by students. The discussion was open-ended with Dr. Kothale speaking about various aspects on the subject, and faculty members raising a multitude of questions.
Overall, the conversation was an extremely eye-opening one with questions being asked on sensitive issues that could not have been talked on a regular panel.
And thus, we are thankful to Dr. Kothale for giving us her valuable time and expertise. We are also grateful to our principal, Dr. Bindu Saini; vice principal, Ms. Padmavati Banda; and HM, Ms. Shubhangi Kulkarni for granting us all this opportunity.