Aloka Rainbow Kids beamed into Aloka House @ Dana One on 25 April 2010, heralding a specially designed experiential and fun-filled Dhamma education programme.
ARK, as it is known by its acronym, was received with excitement as it introduced a modern and contemporary approach to Dhamma learning for children that also required the presence and participation of parents.
Fifteen children and 16 adults arrived with eagerness in anticipation for the first programme to roll out after their interest was heightened by a sneak preview at the previous Sunday’s orientation.
Just like the how the rainbow never fails to bring the child-like in us with spontaneous joy and outbursts of excitement “look, look, the rainbow!”, the ARK programme aims to bring joy and optimism for both children and adults as the Dhamma unfolds for them.
This activity-based interactive programme that forges bonding and cross learning lends a new perspective for the timeless teachings of the Buddha to be imparted and nurtured.
The kids and parents -- four to five in each group -- were assigned to their new Dhamma families named Dana, Sila, Kalyana and Mitta; and in togetherness, they will learn, practise, serve and help one another.
ARK programme, which is run on a fortnightly frequency on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, begins with a puja followed by metta bhavana to start the day with thoughts and feeling of loving kindness.
Brain integration exercise comes next. Kids and parents get on their feet for some simple exercises to harmonise their energy and align their bodies and minds for better learning and performance.
Mind and body now prepared, they are now ready for the Dhamma which is delivered in a manner that brings out its brilliance like that of a rainbow which never ceases to amaze children and adults with its wonder and splendour.
A departure from the classroom-style of teaching, the Dhamma is presented vividly in colourful and eye-catching visuals that accompany the messages which are conveyed in clear, simple and succinct manner.
The facilitators too have thought of activities that aptly impart and reinforce certain values. For example, the simple activity of keeping a tissue in the air which drew squeals of laughter from young and old drew home the point of team work and support for one another. Not only that, what dawned upon all was the realisation that it takes only 15 muscles to be happy (laugh) and 72 to frown!
Through another simple exercise of putting on paper good and bad habits, children quickly realised how easily the habitual tendencies grow in them. Owning up to it, they were then guided to make conscious efforts in replacing the bad habits with good ones.
Kids and adults regroups for hymn singing session which is followed by offering of lunch dana and contemplation on partaking of food. More parent and child group activities and Dhamma learning follow.
Since the inaugural programme, Aloka Rainbow Kids have been enthusiastic, looking forward to the next sessions. Parents too are just as enthusiastic, for they are involved.
ARK indeed shines brightly as in the brilliance of a rainbow. Parents beam with pride at their children’s excitement and enthusiasm. And facilitators are over the moon with the appreciative response.
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