Penamoli

How the love of reading passed down through generations continues to shape our family From upside-down toddler tales to Shakespeare, cookbooks and autobiographies, our family's story with books is still unfolding — and it all began even before my children were born. The Bedtime Chapter (and Before) There’s something quietly magical about those moments before bedtime — when the lights soften, the world slows, and a story bridges the gap between day and dream. Our reading journey began with a bump, a belly, and the whimsical rhymes of Dr. Seuss. When I was pregnant, I would read aloud from Oh, Baby, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss, which became a sweet way to introduce them to the world of stories, letting the rhythm and rhyme dance around us. It felt like a promise: this world is big, bright, and full of wonder — and books will always be a part of it. When my eldest was born, bedtime reading was our special ritual. A cozy corner, a beloved book, and a connection that felt timele...

In my previous article, we explored how reading plays a crucial role in a child’s emotional and cognitive well-being. In today’s fast-paced, screen-filled world, fostering a love of reading in children has never been more important. But how can parents and carers actively nurture a love of reading in their children? It's not just about reading to them — it's about creating an environment that encourages curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love for books. Whether it’s through shared moments or quiet, independent exploration, there are simple yet powerful ways to help children develop a deep connection with reading. Here's how you can get started. 1. Lead by Example Children are naturally inclined to mimic the behaviors they see around them. One of the most powerful ways to encourage a love of reading is by making it a part of your daily life. Set aside time to read your own books, whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or even an online article. Show your child that reading is...

How Books Boost a Child’s Well-Being In a world buzzing with technology and constant stimulation, the simple act of reading remains one of the most powerful tools for nurturing a child’s well-being. From fostering emotional intelligence to building resilience, reading offers far more than academic benefits — it shapes happier, healthier kids. 1. Emotional Development Books open a window into the emotions and experiences of others. Through characters’ triumphs and challenges, children learn to identify and understand feelings — both their own and those of others. This emotional literacy helps kids build empathy, communicate better, and navigate relationships more successfully. Reading stories that reflect their own struggles can also make children feel seen and understood. Whether it’s dealing with a new sibling, school stress, or anxiety, seeing those issues in a story helps normalize their feelings and fosters a sense of comfort. 2. Mental Health and Stress Relief Reading is a form of...

If there is a plant I won't miss planting in my garden, it's roses. Though it's not easy ( especially with the presence of its mortal enemies), every season brings a new learning experience, and it's lovely to see the colourful blooms adorning my garden containers. Among them, the baby pink rose always makes me smile with its delicate hue and graceful petals. Why? Because it reminds me of my mum… On the other hand, it adds to my muse. Roses are lovely but have thorns; so is our life sometimes or quite often too prickly. But beyond the pain; the softness of its petals embraces us; the sweetness of its smell and the beauty of its whole. Life, much like a rose, is a delicate interplay of beauty and pain. The thorns symbolize the struggles and hardships that we inevitably encounter, making our journey sometimes, or quite often prickly and challenging. These difficulties, while painful, are an intrinsic part of life, shaping our resilience, fortitude and gratitude. They remi...

"The ocean knows it carries only the reflection;   Not the moon." One summer’s night, I wrote a couplet: the above.  The two-liner was merely a self-reflection exploring self-awareness and the nature of identity. Using this metaphor, I delve deeper into the understanding of my own self, beyond the surface level that is visible to the outside world.  Just as the ocean reflects the image of the moon without a ctually possessing it, we too often project an image of ourselves that may not fully capture our true essence.  The reflections seen by others, and even by ourselves at times, are mere glimpses of our deeper, more complex identities. These reflections can be influenced by various factors such as societal expectations, personal insecurities, and the roles we play in our daily lives.  To build on that, to truly understand who we are, we must look beyond these reflections. This requires a journey inward, where we confront our true emotions, desires, a...

2023 ! Where did 2022 go?  It just felt like just recently we wished each other a big Happy New Year and 'woosh'  here's again another countdown; another first day of a new year. Fast or slow the days passed, I am certainly grateful for every amazing adventure, magical moments and every littlest thing in my life; the ups and downs-the appeases or bumps. Whatever it was, that was before, today it's the new year and it's the same me. I certainly don't fancy finding a new me, I'm happy as I am. WORK// I presume our work attitude changes as we grow older or on the spur of the moment facing a life-changing episode. Between 2000-2007, I was all about going all out and doing more- giving my best,working long hours, catching the datelines, making the headlines and breaking news. Life was always fast-paced: researches, networks, and interviews (cameras, mic, notepads, sound-bytes, and visuals).  As though, I was always on a roller coaster -it was exciting and I was t...