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Living Values Education is gradually expanding in India.
We now have five cities operational offering individual reports:
India | Mumbai ~ Goa ~ Ayodhya ~ Bengaluru ~ Erode
2025
Action plan for the year 2025
- Fortnightly LVE sessions for parents and teachers at JBCN International, Parel (Mumbai) for one year
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LALA LAJPATRAI COLLEGE OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMICS, MUMBAI
Topic: Values-based Leadership and Mental Well Being
Date: 12 September 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 120
Duration: 30 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Young adults are the foundation of a nation. It is crucial to talk about the mental well-being of young adults, at the time when social media, print media and news channels are flooded with negative news every day, about young people committing suicide, or indulging in different kinds of crimes. It is pivotal to help young people find ways to be emotionally intelligent and resilient.
We are happy to receive an invitation from Lala Lajpat Rai College of Management for a half-hour Living Values session on Values-based Leadership and mental well-being. A successful session was conducted for 120 students. Below is the snapshot of workshop proceedings.
1. Objectives of the Workshop
- To explore personal values
- Encourage creative thinking, positivity, self-confidence and self-empowerment
- Appreciate our personal values, to see the interconnectedness of the various aspects of personal life, and
- To recognize the important role that our values play in determining the quality of our relationships and our achievements in life.
Toral Shah, the facilitator of the workshop, conducted two beautiful self-reflective exercises, helping the participants to explore and delve deeper into their personal values.
The participants were enabled to connect to their personal value by
- Reflecting on the qualities of a person who has influenced them deeply.
- Thinking of a special moment, when they discovered good about themselves, a quality they feel proud of.
- Remembering a time when someone said something good about your strength and values.
Reflections of Students
"The person who has influenced me the most is my mother. She is incredibly patient and compassionate, even in stressful situations. I've seen her handle problems calmly without losing her temper, and she always tries to understand other people’s feelings before reacting."
"A special moment for me was when I volunteered to help organize a charity event at college. I didn't think I was very good at leadership, but when I started coordinating with other students, handling last-minute issues, and keeping the team motivated, I realized that I can stay calm under pressure and help people work together."
"One of my professors once told me that I’m trustworthy and dependable. He said that whenever a group project needed someone to step up and take responsibility, I was always ready, and people felt comfortable working with me because they knew I wouldn't let them down."
2. Tree of my Life
The participants were asked to imagine how a tree and parts of the tree each might represent their life and the values they use in their life.
- Roots of the tree - Which value is the foundation of your life?
- Trunk of the tree - Which of your values support you and gives you strength in your life?
- Branches of the tree - Which are the important areas in your life? Family, Friends, health, aspirations, hobbies, etc.
- Leaves of the tree - Think about a quality or value of yours that you 'give' to others
- Flowers of the tree – What is your special value? Your achievements and successes?
- Hungry Insects - What are the insects in your life that prevent you from growing and flourishing to your full potential? A negative attitude or a habit?
- Insecticide - What can you do or what value you can choose to destroy that insect?
Reflection of Students
- Root: The foundation of my life is honesty. I believe that being truthful to myself and others helps me build trust and keeps me grounded, even when things are hard.
- Branches: The main areas in my life are family, friends, studies, health, and my hobbies like playing sports and listening to music. These help me stay balanced and happy.
- Leaves: I always try to listen and support others when they’re going through something tough. Being there for my friends and family makes me feel like I’m helping them even in small ways.
- Fruit: My special value is kindness. I feel proud when people say that I’m approachable and easy to speak to.
- Insects: The biggest insect in my life is procrastination. Sometimes I keep putting off tasks and then feel stressed when deadlines are near. The way I can fight procrastination is by choosing self-discipline and time management.
Visualization
"I am a Strong Tree"
This activity was designed to help students connect to their core values, inner strengths, and resilience by visualizing themselves as a tree. It encouraged self-awareness, reflection, and the ability to stand strong in life's challenges while staying rooted in their values/principles.
Students reflection of the visualization exercise
This activity helped me realize how my values like honesty and perseverance keep me grounded during tough times. It showed me that my strengths, like staying disciplined and supporting others, help me grow even when life gets challenging. I also became more aware of distractions like self-doubt, and how choosing patience and optimism can help me overcome them. It was a great way to connect with myself and stay rooted in what matters most.
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WORKSHOPS - JBCN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, PAREL
Living Values Education Session with Grade 4 Learners
Date: 12 December 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 120 - Grade 4 Learners
Duration: 60 mins (30 minutes each for 2 batches of 60 learners each)
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
1. Introduction
A Living Values Education (LVE) session was conducted for Grade 4 learners to help them understand and apply the Value of Peace for managing conflicts. The session provided them with practical tools to stay calm, think positively, and communicate respectfully when faced with disagreements or emotionally challenging situations.
2. Objectives of the Session
- To help children understand the meaning and importance of Peace.
- To build self-awareness and emotional regulation skills.
- To encourage peaceful thinking and behaviour as a way to solve conflicts.
- To strengthen students' ability to respond with patience and understanding.
3. Activities Conducted
a. Creative Visualisation – "I Am a Peaceful Star"
Learners participated in a guided visualisation where they imagined themselves as a peaceful star travelling in a bubble of light. This exercise helped them experience inner calm, safety, and clarity. Students reported feeling light, relaxed, and free from negative thoughts.
b. Reflective Activity – "What Does Peace Mean to You?"
Students reflected individually on their personal understanding of Peace. They identified what brings them peace, what disturbs their peace, and how they can regain calmness through peaceful thoughts and actions.
c. Reflective Activity – "How Do Peaceful People Think and Behave?"
The children explored the difference between peaceful and non-peaceful thinking. The discussion included:
A peaceful person:
- Takes deep breaths to calm down.
- Speaks softly and tries to help others calm down too.
- Adjusts and compromises when needed.
- Explains their feelings in a gentle tone.
- Practices peaceful habits like reading, meditating, or thinking positive thoughts.
An angry or non-peaceful person:
- May speak rudely or shout to prove their point.
- Often believes they are always right.
- Acts selfishly or without caring about others' feelings.
- Thinks negative thoughts that disturb their peace.
This activity helped students recognise how peaceful thoughts lead to peaceful behaviour, while angry thoughts create conflict and unhappiness.
4. Student Reflection
"During the visualisation, I felt very light and calm. It was like there was a guiding white light right behind me."
"I felt peaceful and all my negative thoughts went away."
"In the morning, I was feeling disturbed, but now it doesn't affect me anymore."
"When my parents fight, I feel stressed and scared because I don’t know what to do. But now I will use this method to relax by imagining myself as a peaceful star."
This reflection shows the emotional impact of the workshop and the effectiveness of peaceful practices for children.
5. Conclusion
The workshop successfully helped Grade 4 learners understand how the Value of Peace can guide their thoughts and actions during conflicts. Through visualisation, reflection, and discussion, students learned simple but powerful strategies to stay calm, communicate respectfully, and handle difficult emotions constructively. The session contributed to promoting a more positive, compassionate, and values-based learning environment.
6. Next step: The school management is interested in having regular sessions like these on different values every month.
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Topic: Parenting with Peace
Date: 4 December 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 20
Duration: 90 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
1. Overview
An introductory Living Values Education (LVE) workshop was conducted for a new batch of Parents from the Pre-Primary section on 4th December. The session focused on strengthening the role of families in nurturing foundational values - Peace, Love, and Respect - during early childhood. Parents were introduced to simple, practical ways to integrate value-based habits into their daily home environment.
2. Objective:
The workshop aimed to:
- Enhance parents’ understanding of the emotional and developmental needs of young children
- Support peaceful emotional expression in early childhood
- Encourage respectful behaviour through parental modelling and gentle guidance
- Strengthen the parent–child relationship using value-based stories, routines, and activities
3. Key Session Components
- Understanding Early Needs: Reflective activities helped parents identify what children require to feel secure and loved.
- Peaceful Emotional Expression: Demonstrations and simple tools - breathing, naming feelings, empathetic responses - parents shared with their partner on the right side.
- Modelling Respect: Parents explored the power of words (tone/volume), actions, and consistency in shaping a child’s behaviour.
- Value-Based Practices at Home: Practical suggestions included gratitude rituals, bedtime stories, mindful pauses, and positive language.
4. Parent Participation
Parents actively engaged through discussions, sharing challenges and experiences. Many found the tools relatable and easy to apply at home, expressing appreciation for the session’s interactive and supportive format.
5. Outcomes & Takeaways
- Children absorb values primarily by observing adults in their environment.
- A calm, loving atmosphere nurtures emotional security and cooperation.
- Small, consistent value-based practices significantly strengthen family relationships.
- Parents felt more confident in guiding their children with clarity and gentleness.
6. Conclusion
The workshop successfully reinforced the importance of value-based parenting during the formative years. Participants expressed interest in future sessions, recognising the positive impact of Living Values Education on children’s holistic growth.
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Topic: Parenting with Presence - Managing stress, Modelling strength
Date: 12 November 2025
Location: JBCN International School, Parel
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 34
Duration: 90 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Objective of the Workshop:
It blended reflection, interaction, and calm moments so parents felt both engaged and refreshed.
Workshop Outline:
1. Warm greeting and short icebreaker
- "One word to describe parenting today" (parents shared aloud).
- Brief overview of the Living Values Education framework - how values like peace, love, respect, and responsibility support stress-free parenting
2. Self-assessment Quiz
Participants took a small quiz to see where their stress levels currently are, followed by recommendations of some practical stressbusters.
3. Reflective Activity
- What are the primary sources of stress in your life right now?
- How do you currently cope with stress?
- What changes can you make to reduce your stress levels?
4. Understanding Stress and Triggers
Short talk/discussion on:
- Common parenting stressors (time pressure, expectations, emotional overload)
- The mind–body link and how children mirror parents' stress levels.
- Quick visual: "Stress vs Calm Response Cycle."
- Mini activity: Parents identify their top 2 triggers and one calming response they can choose instead.
5. Fun Group Activity - "Balancing Peace"
The objective of this activity was to help adults reflect on how to maintain inner calm and composure while managing multiple responsibilities in daily life.
Participants were each given balloons to represent the various aspects of their personal and professional lives. The activity began with each participant keeping a single balloon in the air using gentle movements. This initial round was smooth and enjoyable, symbolizing how balance feels achievable when handling one responsibility at a time.
Gradually, additional balloons were introduced, and participants had to keep two or three balloons afloat simultaneously. The room quickly filled with laughter, energy, and a sense of mild chaos - mirroring the real-life experience of juggling multiple roles. Through this, participants became aware of their responses to pressure and the strategies they unconsciously used to cope with increasing demands.
The final round brought the focus back to calmness. Participants were asked to pause, take a deep breath, and move one balloon slowly and mindfully to soft background music. This helped them reconnect with a sense of inner peace and reminded them that calmness and focus can be regained when one consciously slows down.
The reflective discussion that followed revealed valuable insights. Participants shared that they often lose balance when trying to manage everything at once, and that peace comes from prioritizing, being present, and handling one thing at a time.
The session concluded with the affirmation: "I create peace by staying balanced within, no matter what I’m balancing outside."
6. Value Connection – "Peace and Presence at Home" (15 mins)
Small-group sharing:
"What helps bring peace in your home?"
"What values can guide us during stressful moments?"
Introduce quick calming tools:
→ 3 deep breaths before reacting
→ mindful pauses
→ listening with empathy
7. Guided Practice – "The Pause Moment" (10 mins)
A brief relaxation or mindfulness exercise.
Soft background music.
Focus on breathing, self-compassion, and inner calm.
Purpose: Parents experienced the power of presence, not just learn about it.
8. Closing and Takeaway (10mins)
Parent concerns were discussed. There was a mix of success stories as well as struggles during their parenting moments. A few examples of what was shared:
One parent shared that her home was quite chaotic this morning - with her father-in-law, husband, and children all preparing to leave around the same time, while she too had to head out soon after for the Parenting Workshop. Amidst the noise and rush, her daughter quietly observed the situation. Despite her mother-in-law raising her voice and the general tension, the mother consciously chose to stay calm, applying what she had been practising since the last session.
Noticing this, her daughter asked, "Aren’t you going to say something?"
The mother gently replied, "I value my peace of mind more than anything right now." Through this simple yet powerful response, she not only maintained her inner balance but also set a living example of composure and self-awareness for her child.
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Another parent shared her concern about her 5-year-old son, who often refuses to follow instructions - whether from his mother or his teacher. In fact, he tends to do the exact opposite of what is asked of him. The mother expressed feeling tired and frustrated, as repeated efforts to guide him seemed to make little difference.
Her honest sharing reflected the challenges many parents face when children begin to assert their independence, testing boundaries and seeking control. It also opened space for the group to discuss gentle, value-based ways of encouraging cooperation and understanding a child’s need for autonomy.
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Purpose: Encourages commitment, community feeling, and practical takeaways.
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Topic: The Parental Survival Kit – Raising kids with calm and clarity
Date: 10 October 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 35
Duration: 90 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Objective of the Workshop
The session aimed to guide parents towards creating peaceful, respectful, and loving home environments. Through values-based reflection and practical "peace tools," parents were encouraged to cultivate calm and clarity in their parenting journey while strengthening emotional bonds with their children.
Key Themes and Highlights:
1. Parenting with Bond, not as a Battle
The workshop began by inviting parents to reflect on their current emotional state using an emoji-based Mood Board. This interactive exercise helped set a tone of self-awareness and openness.
2. Why Peace, Respect, and Love Matter
- Peace makes a home a safe space.
- Respect builds self-worth in children.
- Love nurtures lasting connection.
3. Reflective Dialogue
Parents explored questions such as:
- When was the last time they felt calm and connected as a parent?
- How did their peace impact their family?
- What could they do differently when challenges arise?
4. Situational Awareness
Real-life parenting situations (e.g., handling interruptions, sibling arguments) were discussed to practice choosing values like Peace over reaction.
Activities:
1. The Pause Button
Practicing mindful response instead of immediate reaction. Parents gave examples of how, where and under what circumstances they can respond instead of reacting by sharing recent situations at home.
2. The Listening Lens
Empathic listening through one-minute sharing exercises. Parents grouped in two, one pretending to be a child and talking non-stop for 1 minute, and the other one listening patiently without interrupting. The speaker then shared that it felt lighter to speak their heart out without interruptions from the listener, they also shared that they felt heard and valued.
3. The Gratitude Note
Recognizing joyful family moments. Parents shared amongst themselves/journalling the last time they remember having a joyful moment as a family. They realised we need to have it more often and made their own plans as to how they will.
4. The Calm Corner
Creating a family space for emotional regulation. Parents took the initiative to recommend and recall the spaces that are used and can be used as ‘The calm corner’. They took inspiration from each other.
5. The Reflective Journal
Encouraging daily mindfulness and observation. Many parents vouched how journalling is helping them, and how they want to keep this a continuous habit.
6. The Loving Reminder
Group affirmation: "I choose peace, even in chaos."
A set of affirmations were repeated verbally which brought an immediate change in the atmosphere, and they experienced an inner calm and clarity before leaving the workshop.
The Values Pledge
Parents concluded by writing one action they would continue practicing at home to nurture Peace, Respect, and Love.
The collective affirmation reinforced that calm and conscious presence is a parent’s greatest gift to their child.
Peace begins with me. My calm is my child's strength. My presence is their safe space. I choose peace over perfection.
Outcomes and Feedback
- Parents appreciated the interactive and reflective nature of the workshop.
- Many expressed that they felt more empowered to model emotional regulation at home.
- The "Peace Tools" were found practical and easy to integrate into daily family life.
- The closing pledge created a sense of community and shared purpose among parents
- One parent shared a touching story about her child who was experiencing bullying on the school bus. Instead of reacting with anger or fear, the child chose kindness. He began offering sweets to his bullies every day for three days. Though they refused the sweets on the first two days, his consistent gesture of goodwill eventually melted their resistance - by the third day, they accepted his offering, and a new friendship began to form.
Testimonial
"I have been attending the Living Values Education's workshop regularly for the past 1 year, I never miss it and it's a must for me to attend each session. I have learnt to deal with myself, and the environment around me. I always emerge out stronger and calmer post every workshop."
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Topic: Creating a Values-based Atmosphere in the Digital Age
Date: 10 September 2025
Location: JBCN International School, Parel
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 65
Duration: 90 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Objectives:
The primary objectives of the workshop were to:
- Sensitize parents on the impact of technology on children’s attitude, behavior and values.
- Encourage role modeling and conscious use of devices at home.
- Promote open communication and trust in addressing online challenges.
- Provide tools and exercises to help families link values to digital behavior.
- Support parents in building routines and rituals that strengthen emotional connection and resilience.
Workshop Content and Activities
A. Key Topics Covered
1. The need for values in the AI age.
2. How parents can lead by example in using technology.
3. Setting healthy digital boundaries without imposing strict restrictions.
4. Encouraging mindful reflection in children regarding their online habits.
5. Building communication channels where children feel safe to share experiences.
6. Celebrating values in action to reinforce positive behavior.
B. Practical Tools Provided
Family Values Charter
Participants were asked to identify five core family values (e.g., respect, kindness, honesty, gratitude, responsibility) and discuss how these values can guide their use of technology. They reflected on how to practice these values in daily digital interactions.
Group Sharing and Discussion
Parents were invited to share their experiences and insights in a structured group format, encouraging peer learning and mutual support.
Chat Storm Activity
A rapid reflection exercise where participants responded to prompts like:
- What is the first emotion you feel when your child challenges your peace?
- What one value would you like your child to learn from you?
- What one small step will you commit to this week to practice peace or values at home?
This exercise helped participants to connect with the self and commit to actionable steps.
Values Pledge
A pledge was taken to inculcate 'Peace' in the home/work environment and the immediate relationships.
Observations and Outcomes
- Participants engaged deeply in discussions and demonstrated a willingness to adopt new strategies learnt
- Many parents shared that they had never reflected on how technology usage aligned with family values before the session.
- The Family Values Charter activity led to meaningful conversations about balancing screen time, practicing kindness, and creating shared routines.
- The Chat Storm exercise encouraged open dialogue and honest sharing, reinforcing the importance of self-awareness and empathy.
- Feedback from participants indicated increased confidence in handling digital challenges and applying family values in practical ways.
Conclusion
The workshop on 'Creating a Values-Based Atmosphere in the Digital Age' equipped the parents with practical tools, awareness, and confidence to nurture children’s growth in a technology-driven world. By focusing on values such as respect, empathy, responsibility, and balance, families are empowered to create supportive and mindful environments where children can thrive both online and offline. With guidance, reflection, and shared rituals, families can create meaningful experiences that enable children to face challenges with confidence and integrity - today and tomorrow.
Testimonial
"I am actually going through many of the phases with my child that were discussed in the workshop. It helped me gain clarity on how to handle difficult moments, especially when my child faces challenges with peers or in the parent–child relationship. I am really looking forward to the next workshop and learning more."
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 7 May 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 38
Duration: 90 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Parents reflecting on "Factors that contribute towards Humility"
Some reflections:
- Humility is based on self-respect
- A person with humility listens to accepts others
- Humility creates an open mind and recognition of the strengths of the self
- Humilty makes arrogance disappear
Activity 1
Write down 6 qualities/Values you have.
This helps the participants become more intentional and confident in your parenting. It reminds you of the strengths you bring to your role - like patience, empathy, or responsibility - and helps you lead by example. Reflecting on your values can guide how you respond to challenges, communicate with your child, and set a positive tone at home. It also reinforces your sense of identity beyond just being a parent, helping you stay grounded and emotionally balanced as you support your child’s growth.
Participants were given the following situation and they were asked to address the same
Make a group of 3 (Peace, Respect and Love) - An acquaintance has told you that someone else has been saying awful things about you. What they have said is not true.
How do you feel?
What could you do?
How can you apply the value of 'Peace'?
If you decide to talk with him or her, what would you say?
What can you say to the acquaintance?
How can you apply the Value of 'Respect' and 'Love'?
Outcome
Participants developed a deeper awareness of their own thoughts, emotions, and responses in everyday interactions. Parents were able to recognize the impact of their behaviour on their children and shift from reactive patterns to more conscious, values-based responses. The activity helped strengthen empathy, improve listening, and foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding. As a result, parents felt more confident in handling challenging situations with calmness and connection, leading to more positive and meaningful parent-child relationships.
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 7 April 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 38
Duration: 60 minutes
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Parents were asked to share one thing that brings them peace or makes them happy!
"I've started taking time for myself (enrolled into a dance class), and it's made me a much happier parent. I used to feel constantly frustrated and struggled to respond to my children with patience."
"I've started embracing the value of patience and have come to understand the importance of honouring my self-respect. This journey has brought a deeper sense of dignity and humility within me, making us as a family feel happy and content."
"I've started having open and meaningful conversations with my child about important matters, which has brought greater clarity and understanding for both of us - replacing arguments with connection. This brings lot of peace to me."
Parents reflecting on:
When was the last time you felt real happiness?
What are the factors affecting your happiness?
What about your child, makes you happy?
Do you blame others for taking away your happiness?
Parents visualizing "A Peaceful and Happy self"
Affirming: "I believe in myself, I love myself unconditionally, Peace is the essence of my being, I feel joy in everything I do, I have everything I need, within me."
Parents Feedback
"These sessions have awakened something inside me that is true to my whole existence."
"The peace and calm I have brought into myself through these sessions, have made me more tolerant to the situations I face in my daily life."
"I think these workshops are so important, as for the betterment of the child, family and the society as a whole, it is important to understand that values are the very basic necessity." - Mrs. Ruby Tandon (Grandmom of a 5-year-old)
"When I gave my child some time and space to reflect on his doings (wasting time and resources for sports activities by not attending regularly), he realized his mistake and started working on himself."
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 19 March 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 10
Download a pdf of this full report here.
We had another exciting session on ‘Precious Parenting’ in JBCN international school on 19th March, 2025. Toral Shah, helped the parents to delve into the importance of the values Peace, Respect & Love.
Parents brainstormed in small groups how they could create an atmosphere of respect and love at their homes
- The parents shared the following insights on the value of Respect:
- Respect starts with respecting myself, first.
- It’s important to value what the child is trying to communicate.
- Communication and having eye contact is key.
- Taking a pause before reacting/responding is powerful.
- Teaching values to our children, regardless of how others behave, is essential.
'The importance of cultivating Peace at home' was shared with an interesting example of Russia - Ukraine war.
Just as the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused collateral damage to neighbouring countries, disharmony between parents can create a ripple effect that impacts their surroundings. This tension can affect not only their relationship with each other but also their interactions with helpers, cooks, drivers, spouses, and, ultimately, their children. It is crucial to cultivate peace and harmony, not only in your immediate relationships but also with those around you - be it in the workplace or within your broader community.
Tolerance is a powerful tool!
Parents shared how the value of 'Tolerance' has helped them overcome significant challenges, such as children ignoring them or responding with frustration. They emphasized that by practicing patience, acceptance, and understanding they’ve been able to foster a values-based atmosphere at home, promoting calmness over reacting impulsively.
Parents' Feedback:
"I've become much more patient with my child."
"I've successfully overcome mealtime tantrums by embracing the 'Value of Peace'."
"My relationship with my spouse has improved, and that positive shift is benefiting my child as well."
"I'm still a work in progress, but the Living Values sessions have helped me bring out the best in myself. They've taught me the importance of working on myself first."
The parents were brimming with joy as they left the school.
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 24 February 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 38
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
A parent sharing her success story after implementing the Value of 'Peace' from the last session, at her home which enhanced communication with her child.
Like many parents, I often found myself caught up in the hustle & bustle of daily life. Between work, daily chores, and running errands, my child and I rarely had time to just be with one another. When we did talk, it was often in the middle of chaos or at a time when emotions were running high. There was always a sense of urgency in our conversations, and sometimes, that led to misunderstandings, raised voices, or feelings of frustration.
After the session of Living values on Peace, where we discussed how peace can enhance relationships and communication, I realized that I wasn’t giving my child the space he needed to communicate freely and openly. I also realized that I, too, needed to create a more peaceful environment within myself in order to better support my child.
The first step I took was to slow down. I made a conscious effort to pause before reacting. If my child came to me with a concern, I no longer jumped straight into problem-solving mode. Instead, I took a deep breath, acknowledged their feelings, and gave them my full attention. I began to practice active listening - not interrupting, not offering solutions right away, but allowing them to express themselves fully. At home, I also worked on eliminating distractions during our interactions. No more checking my phone or multitasking when my child wanted to talk. I made a point of sitting down with him at the dinner table, or even setting aside 'quiet time' for just the two of us, where we could connect and talk without any interruption.
Parents reflecting on the question - Is part of taking care of the self (Thoughts, words and actions) being responsible?
Our thoughts shape our emotions, decisions, and interactions with others. As parents, we strive to model positive self-talk and resilience for our children. But this starts with how we take care of our own minds. Being responsible means not letting negativity, self-doubt, or anxiety take over. It's about cultivating a mindset that encourages growth, learning, and patience - not only toward others but also toward ourselves. By being aware of our internal dialogue, we can teach our children how to handle their own thoughts in a healthy and constructive way.
Values Activity 1: 'Pass a pen with Respect'
The act of passing the pen signifies the importance of respectful dialogue. Adults often juggle busy schedules and have many things to say, but the activity reminds them that taking time to acknowledge and honour others' viewpoints is essential. Respectful communication fosters understanding, reduces misunderstandings, and builds stronger connections. The activity also prompts adults to reflect on their own communication styles and how they express respect or values in their daily lives. It offers an opportunity for self-awareness - examining how they may need to adjust their tone, words, or actions to be more considerate and inclusive in different conversations
Values Activity 2: 'Values Balloon'
Breathe into your balloon, a Value that you would like to give to the world!
Then keep your values up high!
By breathing into the balloon, participants symbolically "infuse" their chosen value with their energy and intentions, emphasizing that values are not abstract ideas, but powerful forces that can be "shared" and "spread" through actions and words. The activity conveys that our values are living aspects of ourselves that can have an impact on the world around us.
Exchange your balloon with the person sitting next to you.
What Value did you give?
What did you receive in return?
The act of exchanging balloons with another person highlights the importance of sharing values with others. It reinforces the idea that values aren't meant to be kept to ourselves but are meant to be passed on, cultivated, and exchanged with others. In this way, it symbolizes the collective contribution of individuals to a shared positive environment.
Participants visualising 'A Respected self, harmonious relationships, a loving home environment and responsible parenting'
Imagine a version of yourself who carries these values deeply. Visualize how self-respect manifests in your thoughts, actions, and interactions. How does it affect how you carry yourself? How do you set boundaries and advocate for your own well-being?
By visualizing a respected self, participants understand that the way they treat themselves is the way others will learn to treat them, establishing an atmosphere of dignity and self-respect.
Next they imagine themselves engaging with others, whether in personal or professional settings. How do you listen to people? Are you able to offer empathy and understanding when someone is upset?
Harmonious relationships thrive when mutual respect, patience, and empathy are consistently practiced. Visualizing these values allows participants to see the positive impact they can have on their relationships, making them more fulfilling and peaceful.
A loving home is built on values that prioritize emotional well-being and trust. By visualizing this environment, participants are reminded of the responsibility they hold in making their homes nurturing spaces. These values support both the growth and happiness of everyone who lives there. It also emphasizes that love and care are not just abstract feelings but deliberate actions and behaviours that need to be practiced daily.
Letter of gratitude & appreciation from JBCN International School, Parel 28th Feb, 2025
On behalf of JBCN International School, Parel, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your initiative in conducting this truly meaningful workshop for our parents.
Your dedication and effort in making these sessions happen have been invaluable, and the positive impact on our parent community has been deeply appreciated. These workshops have provided immense support and guidance, and we are grateful for the difference they have made.
Thank you once again for your proactive approach and unwavering commitment to bringing Living Values to life for our parents. We truly appreciate your contribution.
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 5 February 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 28
You can download a pdf of this full report here.
Participants deeply reflecting on "What values are important to them right now, which ones do they wish to use at home?"
Participants in a power dialogue discussing the major parent concern - "Think Before saying, 'No'"
Participants role playing in a situation where the one parent is nagging the child (Parent pretending to be a child) to get off the screen, whilst the child argues with the parent for some more screen time. They realise how one feels when they are shouted at, and thereafter they enact the same situation in a peaceful way.
Participants visualising a 'A Peaceful Home, with harmonious beautiful relationships'.
Participants reflecting and discussing on - What are the situations that challenge your peace? And how would you advise yourself to overcome them?
PARENTS FEEDBACK
"I attended the Living values workshop at school which was an eye opener. We as parents are so caught up with multiple things, that sometimes we lose the right way of raising our kids. This workshop for me, touched the right points of self-development and affirmations, which will not only help me to see my own personal growth but in turn impact my child positively. Thank you so much for helping parents like me who need guidance and regular reminders"
~ Parina Mehta
"Thank you for this opportunity. I attended the workshop today and it was as if it was designed for me. From entering the seminar hall in an overwhelmed, unhappy mood to feeling much more relaxed by the end of it. It’s great that there are experts who can guide us parents to be more fulfilled and happier as it’s the toughest job in the world as we frequently are in a 'self-doubt' mode. So, I look forward to Phase 2 of the workshop.
I strongly feel that such workshops (age appropriate) should be planned for younger kids also as a lot of problems begin from Grade 1 onwards. These smaller problems become the cause of bigger problems when these kids enter their teens and eventually become a part of their being. When they know that they’re not alone and each of their peers is facing something or the other, they’re reassured and also find innovative ways to improve the situation with correct guidance"
~ Shubhangi Bansal
"Thank you for the synopsis. The Precious Parenthood session was too good and i am eagerly awaiting the next one."
~ Dr Dharini Sheth
"The session shattered some beliefs / norms, it forced me to look inwards and reflect on myself and my balance. Answers to some simple questions were eye openers and resulted in a change in perspective that I embraced with absolutely no resistance. The session had very clear pointers and actionable that made the transition from a self-doubting parent to an empowered one.
A soul enriching session, I look forward to the next one. Would recommend this as a mandatory for every teacher and parent. Thank You for all your effort"
~ Grade 7 Parent
"Nice to hear and see what other parents are also facing. Each parent has their own unique challenge and this was a nice session to get a better understanding of how we all can deal with the challenges of bringing up our kids in a loving home. The session was truly insightful and awakening. The facilitator - Ms. Toral was highly knowledgeable, and the engaging format made it impactful. Strategies shared through real- life scenarios and behaviour management tips were incredibly helpful.
It was a highly beneficial experience! Regular monthly sessions like this would be an excellent support for parents."
~ Grade 3 Parent
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Precious Parenting Workshop
Date: 22 January 2025
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Number of Participants: 30
Download a pdf of this full report here.
Introduction: The Living Values Workshop for Parents was conducted in JBCN, Parel in Mumbai with the goal of empowering parents with tools and techniques to instil core values in their children. This workshop focused on fostering personal growth, positive communication, emotional intelligence, and eff ective parenting strategies that align with the principles of Living Values. The session was designed to be interactive, engaging, and informative, helping parents understand how values can be taught and embodied both at home and in the community.
WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
The primary objectives of the workshop were:
- To introduce the concept of Living Values as a holistic approach to child development, particularly the Value of 'PEACE'
- To provide parents with practical strategies for nurturing positive character traits such as peace, empathy, respect, responsibility, and integrity in their children.
- To create awareness about the role of values in shaping a child’s emotional and psychological well-being.
- To promote a balanced approach in parenting by incorporating mindfulness, communication, and emotional support.
WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS
Introduction to Living Values:
The facilitator began by explaining the framework of Living Values, which includes 12 core values such as Peace, respect, love, etc. Parents were introduced to the idea that values are not just abstract concepts but are actionable traits that can be integrated into daily life.
Interactive Activities:
A key component of the workshop was hands-on exercises and group discussions. Parents participated in role-playing activities to explore various real-life situations where values could be applied to guide children’s behaviour. This activity encouraged parents to reflect on their own parenting styles and how they can model these values for their children.
Communication Strategies:
The facilitator emphasized the importance of effective communication in fostering understanding and trust between parents and children. Several communication techniques, including active listening, non-violent communication, and expressing empathy, were introduced to help parents address conflicts with their children constructively.
Emotional Intelligence:
A segment was dedicated to emotional intelligence, highlighting how parents can nurture their children’s emotional awareness. The workshop emphasized how understanding emotions, both in oneself and others, is crucial for healthy relationships and personal growth. Parents learned techniques for helping their children label and manage their emotions.
Mindfulness Practices:
The session also included a brief introduction to mindfulness practices, encouraging parents to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and being present in the moment were discussed as tools to enhance emotional regulation and reduce stress in both parents and children. A vision of "A Peaceful Home" was created through a commentary, which the parents wanted to practice every time they said they lost their "Peace".
Reflective Activity:
A key highlight enjoyed by most parents was reflection. Following questions were asked, for which they had to journal:
What are the top 3-5 values you cherish most in life?
How do these values show up in your day-to-day interactions with your children?
Reflect on a recent parenting moment: How did your values influence your behaviour or decision?
Are there moments where you feel your actions didn't align with your values?
What could you do differently?
Parenting Challenges and Solutions:
Towards the end, the facilitator opened the floor to discussions on common parenting challenges. Parents shared their experiences and sought advice on issues such as dealing with difficult behaviour, fostering independence, and balancing discipline with compassion. The group collectively brainstormed potential solutions and shared resources for continued learning.
FEEDBACK FROM PARTICIPANTS
Participants shared positive feedback regarding the interactive nature of the workshop. Many parents expressed that the session provided valuable insights into how they can be more mindful in their approach to parenting, especially when it comes to managing their emotions and responding to their children’s needs. Several parents also appreciated the practical strategies they learned to build stronger, value-based relationships with their children.
"The workshop gave me new perspectives on how to handle diffi cult situations with my children. I now feel more equipped to teach them life values."
"I loved the mindfulness exercises. I’m going to practice them with my children, to see positive changes in how we communicate."
"The interactive activities were a great way to refl ect on our parenting styles and learn from others."
CONCLUSION
The Living Values Workshop for Parents at JBCN was a highly successful initiative aimed at empowering parents with the knowledge and skills to raise emotionally intelligent, compassionate, and value-driven children. The interactive nature of the workshop, combined with practical takeaways and real-life strategies, ensured that participants left with valuable tools to enhance their parenting journey. Moving forward, the school plans to continue off ering similar monthly workshops to reach a broader audience and contribute to the holistic development of children in the community.
2024
LVE Workshop for JBCN International School, Mumbai
Theme: Orientation of LVE
Date: 14 October, 2024
Location: JBCN International School, Parel, Mumbai
Facilitator: Toral Shah
Session Overview
A Living Values Education orientation workshop for leaders and teachers of JBCN International school, Parel (Mumbai) was organised on October 14, 2024. Around 35-40 participants attended including school principal, teachers from all sections and others from the senior management of the school.
The objective of the workshop was to orient the school management and teachers about ALIVE International and give them an experience of Living Values.
Methodology:
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Visualization Exercise
- Reflection
- Discussion
- Games
Key Insights:
The values activities session enthused participants. It gave them a new and positive perspective to deal with situations in the classroom as teacher or a parent at home. It gave them an opportunity to reflect on and experience peace, love and joy in the midst of the hustle and bustle of life. It was something new, something to give them an adrenaline rush!
Feedback from Teachers:
- Teachers are often more concerned about academics of their students while it is equally important to focus on their behaviour.
- We know about all these values but are we actually living them!?
- Explore, Experience and Express values is the first step.
- To slow down and take some time out for self-reflection and journalling daily.
- Teachers felt calm and comfort during the visualisation exercise.
