Opinion | Capacity Building of Aayas A Key Step for Quality Preschool Education

Capacity building of Aayas strengthens the preschool classroom because trained hands and caring hearts shape the earliest learning experiences of every child

Early childhood is the most sensitive phase of human development. Children require care, safety and emotional support during these years. The function of an Aaya in a preschool classroom becomes important in this regard. Their presence builds a sense of security and comfort for a child. In order to strengthen this role the State Council of Educational Research and Training Srinagar scheduled capacity building training programs for Aayas across districts. Phase one of the training has been completed. It marked an important step toward improving the quality of Early Childhood Care and Education in Jammu and Kashmir.

The training emphasized the role of Aayas in daily routines undertaken in ECCE classrooms. Many Aayas had been working without formal guidance. This training helped them understand the value of hygiene, safety routines, emotional support and age appropriate interactions. Master Resource Persons modeled simple learning games that help young children explore numbers, colors, shapes and language. Through these demonstrations the Aayas came to understand how they could support teachers in creating an engaging learning environment.

Such programs give clarity and structure to the role of Aayas. When Aayas know their duties they provide better support to teachers. Children feel more comfortable. Parents feel more confident. The whole class atmosphere improves.

Routine was also emphasized in this training. Small children do well when they know what to expect. A well structured day promotes emotional stability. The aayas learned how to attend to the child during arrival, mealtime, washroom time, rest time and dispersal. Simple as it may seem these provide building blocks for developing a child’s confidence. Anxiety in children is reduced in an orderly calm routine.

Another major component of the training is child safety. The Aayas learned how to keep the surroundings clean and how to assist teachers during activity sessions. They were guided on handling minor injuries keeping learning materials clean and supporting children with special needs. With such practical knowledge parents develop trust because they expect safe environments for their children.

Involvement by SCERT Srinagar, DIETs and JKASW ensured that the training was systematic. The collaborative approach brought experts together. Their guidance helped Aayas learn with confidence. During the feedback sessions many Aayas expressed gratitude for this. They appreciated the respect shown to them. They felt valued as important members of the school community. It is this sense of respect that drives Aayas to work with more dedication and care.

The training featured learning modules that explained the basics of ECCE in simple language covering child behavior, developmental stages, how to communicate with young children and classroom management. Examples were also given in the modules. They helped Aayas understand how small actions influence a child’s development. For example sitting with a child during play builds emotional bonding. Encouraging a child to speak builds confidence. Helping a child hold a pencil correctly improves fine motor skills.

The activities that Master Resource Persons demonstrate require no high cost materials. Clay, paper, stones, leaves and other local items are used. This helps the Aayas support even those teachers who have few resources in their schools. It also furthers creativity since when Aayas learn to use local materials they contribute to a joyful learning environment.

Capacity building creates long term impact. A trained Aaya works with care. She develops skills which strengthen her daily tasks. She is a lot more confident while guiding children. She understands how to support teachers during storytelling, rhymes, outdoor play and group work. She knows how to comfort a crying child or help a shy child join an activity. This sensitivity enhances the emotional climate of the classroom.

The training programs also focused on communication. Aayas learned the use of polite words, positive tone and gentle behavior. Children learn by imitating adults whatever Aaya does affects how the children will speak and act towards others. Kindness and patience create a positive environment.

Teachers welcomed this training because it eases their workload; once an Aaya understands her role, the teachers get more time for planning and classroom activities. It promoted teamwork which enhanced learning; teaching also became more effective.

The initiative therefore, had the aim of improving the grassroots level experience of the children enrolled in preschool. Parents judge the quality of a school by observing Aayas. Their behavior shapes the trust that parents feel. Well trained Aaya can support the building of a strong link between the family and the school. This link would improve the student’s attendance and participation.

The training programs also help the Aayas understand why their role is so important. Many of them had never attended any formal training. The experience gave them confidence and pride. They felt that their work contributes to child development. When people feel respected they work with more dedication.

SCERT Srinagar will extend these training programs in a phased manner. The initiative will continue to be supported by the DIETs. The involvement of JKASW adds strength to the effort. With every district completing its training phase the quality of ECCE classrooms across Jammu and Kashmir will improve. This is important for achieving the vision of NEP 2020. The policy emphasizes strong foundational learning. Aayas directly support this vision.

It is not about completing a training schedule but helping Aayas gain confidence to become partners in the development of children. Their daily interactions influence behavioral, learning and emotional development. Trained they contribute to a safe and joyful learning environment.

Parents will notice the difference. They will see organized classrooms observe hygienic practices and feel reassured that their children are in safe hands. This will change their perception of government schools. It will improve the number of enrollments for ECCE classes. Training of Aayas is an investment. This strengthens the foundation of education. When children feel safe and cared for they develop curiosity. They participate more actively. They express themselves with confidence. These early experiences influence lifelong learning. The capacity building initiative indicates that quality education starts with simple steps. Training programs like these ensure that every adult in the classroom knows their role. With continued support and monitoring recommendations will be implemented effectively by Aayas. If this momentum continues the ECCE classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir will be the role models for care and learning. Children will love their school experience. Teachers will receive stronger support. Parents will build trust. The entire education system will benefit from this.

(Writer is An Author, Writer and Columnist hails from Boniyar Baramulla and He Can Be Contacted on mukhtar.qur@gmail.com)