FAQ

What is Marin Balavihar?

A forum to educate children ages 4-18 about Indian culture, faith and values through presentations, activities and discussions.

What are the lower and upper schools?

Beginning with the fall 2004 session, we have started separate sessions to better address the needs of our children. The lower school is intended for 4-10 year olds, and focuses on shlokas, stories, arts and craft and games. The upper school is intended for 10-18 year olds, and focuses on concepts and discussions, and more complex shlokas.

When and where is Balavihar held?

Class is held at the YMCA (Lucas Valley exit in San Rafael) from 9:00 to 10:15 on Sunday mornings. Classes alternate between lower and upper schools. See the schedule for more detail.

How can I join?

You can join the Balavihar email group to get more information. Or simply feel free to drop in for class. If you choose to continue, we will ask that you join the email group because that is how we communicate out to the parent body.

Do I need to stay for class?

Parents in the Lower school are asked to stay when possible and when appropriate, especially to get their children more comfortable with the group. Parents in the Upper school are welcome to drop the children off for class.

The other children have been learning shlokas for 2 years. Will my child fit in?

The shlokas are learned through recitation, and each child can join to the extent he or she is comfortable. We have found that the traditional method of learning by sound enables even young newcomers to catch on very quickly. We provide written materials and offer catch-up lessons to those interested.

Can I bring a friend or family member?

Anytime in the Lower School. We encourage special visitors such as people of different faiths to present and Q&A their holidays and traditions. We also welcome relatives who can share their wisdom and experience with the group. Contact the session coordinator if your guests are willing to speak to the group.

My 12 year old misses the games and stories. Can she attend lower school as well?

Absolutely, she is welcome to attend. Older children, especially siblings, often attend lower school and serve as mentors and guides to the younger ones.

My 8 year old is interested in discussions. Can he attend upper school as well?

We discourage it. We have found that the older children engage in insightful and fast-paced discussions, so the younger child may feel left out and overwhelmed.

Who teaches these lessons? Can I teach?

The teachers are parent volunteers. If you would like to handle a class, we welcome you and we can help you with lesson content. Contact the session coordinator to get started.

Who sets the curriculum?

The curriculum is set based on information received before and during the planning meeting that precedes each session. The curriculum is also adjusted based on feedback received mid-stream. The session coordinator is responsible for the curriculum.

What is a session coordinator?

The session coordinator facilitates curriculum planning and session execution; assists the weekly volunteers with lesson content and logistics; maintains the email group and assists new members. We welcome those interested in leading future sessions.

I have questions. I have ideas. Who are the current session coordinators?

Session coordinators: Radhika Sitaraman (472-5881, radhika_sitaraman@yahoo.com).