Latest news with #AmericanAcademyforGirls
Khaleej Times
06-03-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Ramadan in Dubai: How schools will implement remote learning on Fridays
Some schools in Dubai are all set to introduce remote learning on Fridays during Ramadan. Last week, several private schools in the city confirmed their preparedness for allowing remote learning on Fridays throughout the holy month. Some schools have also conducted surveys to gauge parents' readiness for the hybrid learning model. Jeremy Hallum, Principal/CEO, GEMS Metropole School – Al Waha, said, 'We have taken the opportunity to offer remote learning on Fridays throughout the holy month. For those opting for remote learning, students will have asynchronous online learning, meaning lessons and assignments will be uploaded onto our digital platforms.' For those attending school in person, institutions will continue to operate as usual, with students learning on-site with their teachers. 'This flexibility allows families to choose the option that best suits their needs,' added Hallum. 'Instead of a survey, we have requested parents to simply inform us if they wish to opt for asynchronous online learning.' Several schools expressed their readiness with operating an asynchronous online learning approach. Hallum added, 'Our students are also familiar with the process and know how to access learning as well as the importance of completing all activities set.' Pre-recorded lessons, activities School leaders emphasised that feedback from families shows strong appreciation for the option to choose between attending school in person or learning online. Lisa Johnson, Principal, American Academy for Girls, said, 'We are fully prepared to implement the directive to offer online learning on Fridays during Ramadan because our teachers had already spent the past month pre-recording lessons and activities for the entire month. 'We recognise that fasting and late-night family events may present challenges to perfect attendance. While we are rewarding students who achieve it, we are also providing flexibility and support for those who need it.' Engaging lesson videos during Ramadan Principals stressed that their lesson catalogue ensures that absent students not only receive high-quality instruction but can also access to content if they may want to review the lessons after ending their fast. She added, 'Our School Advisory Board was consulted to ensure our plan best meets the needs of our families. While we have not conducted a formal parent survey, we have received positive feedback from both parents and students, who have found the supplementary learning videos to be very helpful. All staff will be on campus on Fridays to provide support, ensuring students have access to assistance whether they are in school or learning remotely.' Johnson said to enhance the quality of online instruction, teachers have participated in mini trainings on creating engaging lesson videos, embedding questions and quizzes to boost student interaction. Simon Herbert, Head of School/CEO, GEMS International School – Al Khail, said, 'We surveyed our parents to determine how many wishes to take advantage of remote learning on Fridays, and they were quick to answer. The majority of our students will be continuing to attend school in person, with approximately 17 per cent opting for online learning. He added, 'We know that for younger children, in particular, online learning can be challenging, but our experienced staff are used to providing a variety of resources to engage all learners and ensure continuity of learning.'
Khaleej Times
28-02-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Ramadan in UAE: Is this your child's first time to fast? Take it slow, say experts
Fasting for the first time is a significant step for any Muslim child. While their enthusiasm is commendable, experts recommend gradually introducing them to the practice to ensure a smooth and positive experience, which can help extend the duration of fasting year after year. Many parents introduce fasting gradually, allowing children to fast for short periods based on their ability. Some as young as six start with an hour or two before extending to longer durations. "I encourage my children to fast; and my older boys—aged 10 and 8—even challenge each other. My five-year-old, Obaid, wants to fast, too, but his kindergarten requires breakfast before attending. Last year, when he was four years old, he fasted for an hour after waking up, but with school in session, I might let him fast an hour before iftar instead," Mariam Al-Mohannadi, an Emirati mother of three in Dubai, shared with Khaleej Times. Al-Mohannadi motivates her children by rewarding fasting, prayer, and Quran reading with a pottery money bank. At the end of Ramadan, they break the bank, donate part to charity, and keep the rest. Huda, a mother of children Fahad aged nine and Latifa aged six, who attend a private school in Dubai, follows a similar method. "Fahad now fasts fully after starting gradually three years ago. Latifa, in her second year, used to fast in two segments—from 7am to noon, then 2pm until iftar. She wants to try a full fast this year," she added. Al-Mohannadi also created a Ramadan calendar to track their fasting days, with a reward at the end. Supporting children fasting in school Schools also play a role in making fasting easier for children, and in creating a calm and positive environment. "In the week before Ramadan, we run 'Tahadou, Tahabou,' where students and staff exchange small gifts like Quranic verses, sweets, and drinks to build gratitude and community," Lisa Johnson, principal of the American Academy for Girls, said. The school modifies physical activities, provides quiet areas, and offers cultural lessons on fasting through storytelling and discussions. "To help students cope with late-night Ramadan gatherings, teachers prepare educational videos for flexible learning. Allowing students to review the content at a time that suits their energy levels," she explained. "For younger students, we ensure fasting is gradual and positive. We provide quiet areas and monitor their well-being. "Instead of focusing solely on fasting, students also engage in storytelling, discussions, and Ramadan songs to learn patience, gratitude, and generosity," Nav Iqbal, CEO of GEMS Metropole School at Motor City, said. A balanced approach With gradual fasting, proper nutrition, and school support, children can experience Ramadan in a meaningful, healthy way—building their spiritual connection while staying energised. Dr. Amjad Mohammed Haider, a pediatric consultant at the International Modern Hospital, advised keeping fasting short for children under ten. "If a child is under 10, fasting for a few hours—like from breakfast to lunch—is ideal before extending the duration," he said. He recommended a balanced 'suhoor' (the meal before fasting) with complex carbs, protein, and fiber, such as eggs, bread, cheese, dates, yogurt, and fruits. Hydration is key Dr Haider stressed that iftar should start with two dates and water, followed by nutritious meals with fruits and salads for hydration. "Water, water, water!" he strongly advised, along with having juices and milkshakes to curb hunger. He also recommended what food to avoid: "Wait 2–3 hours before giving sweets." Dr Amjad also emphasised regulating physical activity to avoid exhaustion.
