Kalinga Kids: Where Learning Meets Joy & Values

Kalinga Kids: Where Learning Meets Joy & Values

Choosing the right early education for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Kalinga Kids, education goes beyond textbooks; it’s a lively, thoughtful blend of play, learning, culture, and emotional growth. Founded by Niharika Sahoo, Kalinga Kids brings together the best of global teaching approaches while staying deeply rooted in Indian values. To understand the heart and philosophy behind Kalinga Kids, we spoke with Niharika herself. 

In this interview, she shares how the school creates a nurturing environment where children love to learn, grow, and thrive.

1. What does ‘Funway Education’ mean to you and how is it brought to life in your classrooms?
‘Funway Education’ means making learning fun. We use games, activities, and stories to help children enjoy and understand lessons better.

2. How do you balance structured learning with play-based exploration in your curriculum?
We balance structured learning and play by having a flexible routine—some time for guided lessons and some for free play and exploration

3. How are global teaching approaches adapted at Kalinga Kids?
We adapt global approaches by combining their best parts with our Indian values. For example, using Montessori materials but also teaching respect and togetherness.

4. Can you give an example of a hands-on or multisensory activity that made learning fun for your students?
A multisensory activity could be teaching the alphabet with sand tracing, singing the letter sounds, and showing pictures.

5. How do storytelling, music, and movement contribute to your classroom learning experience?
Storytelling, music, and movement make learning engaging and help children remember concepts through rhythm and actions.

6. How do you incorporate Indian spiritual values into a global-standard learning curriculum?
We include values like peace, respect, and gratitude in stories, daily prayers, and activities.

7. How do you support children with delayed speech development in the classroom?
We use speech games, visual aids, and one-on-one attention to help children with delayed speech feel comfortable and grow. We also follow routines like short tasks, movement breaks, and calming activities to help hyperactive kids stay engaged.

8. How do you adapt classroom interactions for children on the autism spectrum?
We use visual schedules, sensory corners, and patient communication to help children on the autism spectrum.

9. Are teachers trained or supported to handle neurodiverse learners? How do you ensure inclusivity?
Yes, teachers are trained to understand and support neurodiverse children by using inclusive teaching methods.

10. What skills beyond academics are emphasized in your curriculum (e.g. emotional, social, creative)?
We focus on emotional, social, and creative skills through group play, art, and problem-solving games.

11. How do you encourage early reading habits in children through creative spaces like the ABC Lab or library?
We create cozy reading corners and story times to make books fun and develop a love for reading.

12. How is your school environment designed to support exploration, safety, and creativity?
Our school is colorful, safe, and full of learning tools that invite children to explore and be creative.

13. What hygiene and health check-up routines are followed to ensure child safety and wellness?
We follow regular check-ups, clean environments, and hygiene habits like hand washing and sanitizing.

14. How do you involve parents in the learning and growth journey of their child?
We involve parents through meetings, updates, and activities where they can take part in learning.

15. What guidance do you offer to first-time parents during admissions or transitions (like separation anxiety)?
We guide new parents by showing them around, answering questions, and helping with their child's smooth transition.

16. In your opinion, what makes Kalinga Kids different from other preschools or daycare centres in the city?
At KalingaKids, what makes us different is how much we value Indian culture and family ethics. We don’t just connect with parents, we make sure grandparents are part of the journey too. After all, they carry so much wisdom, love, and tradition that today’s kids can learn from. We love celebrating special days like Grandparents’ Day, Friendship Day, Rath Yatra, and more.