Latest news with #ShrutiBansal
India Today
a day ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
5 Cool Ways to Use Podcasts for Kids' Learning
5 Cool Ways to Use Podcasts for Kids' Learning By Shruti Bansal From storytelling and science to mindfulness and current events, these audio adventures make education both exciting and accessible. Delight kids with podcasts like Bust or Trust—a fun, evidence-based show that encourages critical thinking—and shows such as Terrestrials, Unspookable, or Greeking Out, which explore natural phenomena, myths, and history in imaginative ways 1. Spark Curiosity with Mystery & Explorations Audio storytelling doesn't just entertain—it strengthens listening comprehension, vocabulary, and media awareness. Kids build cognitive skills by visualizing stories and processing language more deeply through audio alone 2. Reinforce Vocabulary & Media Literacy Shows like Story Pirates transform children's own writings into dramatized episodes, nurturing their confidence and creativity. Kids realise: 'I can be a storyteller'—and that belief itself enriches learning 3. Stimulate Imagination Through Creative Storytelling Use podcasts as a springboard for interactive learning. For instance, from WeAreTeachers: Preview the setting or characters. Predict story outcomes 4. Boost Comprehension with Reflection Activities With meticulously curated lists like '50 Best Podcasts for Kids and Teens PreK–12' or '25 Best Podcasts for Kids' (spanning science, language arts, creativity, ethics, and more), you can tailor listening experiences to age and their interests 5. Expand Understanding Across Topics & Ages
India Today
24-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
7 Superfoods to Boost Student Memory
7 Superfoods to Boost Student Memory By Shruti Bansal Between late-night study sessions and exam marathons, students need every edge they can get — and the right foods can make a big difference. These seven superfoods don't just nourish the body, they supercharge the brain too. Packed with antioxidants, blueberries help improve memory and delay brain aging. A handful a day can sharpen concentration and reduce mental fatigue. 1. Blueberries Shaped like little brains for a reason — walnuts are rich in DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid that boosts brain function and prevents cognitive decline. 2. Walnuts Yes, you read that right! In moderation, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more) can enhance memory and mood thanks to flavonoids and caffeine. 3. Dark Chocolate Spinach, kale, and broccoli are loaded with brain-friendly nutrients like folate, Vitamin K, and beta carotene that help improve memory and thinking skills. 4. Leafy Greens Tiny but mighty, pumpkin seeds are full of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper — all crucial for a healthy, active brain. 5. Pumpkin Seeds The curcumin in turmeric crosses the blood-brain barrier and has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Add it to warm milk or food for a mental boost. 6. Turmeric Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are top sources of Omega-3s, which build brain cells and improve learning and memory. 7. Fatty Fish Pair these superfoods with enough sleep, regular physical activity, and hydration — and you'll give your brain the best shot at staying sharp all semester long.
India Today
13-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
Planning to Work Abroad? Try These 6 Countries in 2025
Planning to Work Abroad? Try These 6 Countries in 2025 By Shruti Bansal Here are six of the most attractive countries offering relatively accessible work-visa routes in 2025, based on streamlined systems, demand for skilled labor, digital nomad options, and favorable policies: The Express Entry and Global Talent Stream offer expedited processing (often within two weeks) for in-demand professionals in IT, healthcare, and trades Provincial Nominee Programmes also allow targeted recruitment. Work visas like the Essential Skills and Accredited Employer Work Visa are accessible, especially for those in professions on the skills shortage list Student Village As of June 23, 2025, Indian degree-holders can bypass qualification assessments, speeding up processing. 2. New Zealand Implemented a po ints-based system from 2023–24, making it easier for skilled workers (engineers, IT, healthcare) to migrate The new system accelerates permit issuance for high-skilled applicants. 3. Germany The long-term Golden Visa offers 5–10 year residency without a local sponsor. A new route allows skilled Indians to apply via nomination and a one-time fee of Rs23 lakh (~US $30 k) The UAE ranks #2 globally for digital nomad appeal, thanks to fast policies, connectivity, and infrastructure. 4. United Arab Emirates (UAE) The Graduate Route allows students to work post-study, and skilled-worker routes remain open. However, major changes to Skilled Worker visa rules—including salary thresholds and digital processing—come into effect on July 22, 2025, affecting eligibility. Still remains a strong destination for tech, healthcare, and engineering talent. 5. United Kingdom Offers multiple attractive pathways: Digital Nomad (D7/D8) visas, plus investor or fund-based Golden Visas Note: Traditional Golden Visa backlog has grown significantly—with 50,000+ pending and delays projected into 2030—it's best for fund or job-creation routes now . 6. Portugal
India Today
04-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
8 Reasons to Add Bottle Gourd to Your Diet
8 Reasons to Add Bottle Gourd to Your Diet By Shruti Bansal Looking for a simple, natural way to improve your health? The humble bottle gourd, also known as lauki, might be just what you need. This light green, bottle-shaped vegetable has been a staple in Indian kitchens for centuries—not just for its culinary versatility but for its impressive health benefits too. Here are eight science-backed reasons to add bottle gourd to your diet. Bottle gourd is rich in water and dietary fiber, which help keep the digestive system smooth and efficient. It's gentle on the stomach and ideal for people with acidity, indigestion, or constipation. 1. Aids Digestion Low in calories and high in water content, bottle gourd is a diet-friendly food. It keeps you full longer, helps reduce unnecessary snacking, and supports weight management when included in a balanced diet. 2. Supports Weight Loss Packed with potassium and low in saturated fats, bottle gourd helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 3. Promotes Heart Health Comprising nearly 92% water, this vegetable is perfect for staying hydrated, especially during hot summers. It also replenishes lost electrolytes and keeps energy levels up. 4. Keeps You Hydrated Bottle gourd has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetics. It helps regulate blood sugar spikes when consumed without added sweeteners or heavy oils. 5. Manages Blood Sugar Levels According to Ayurveda, lauki juice supports liver health and detoxification. It is often recommended for those recovering from jaundice or other liver ailments—though it should be consumed fresh and under guidance. 6. Improves Liver Function The antioxidant and vitamin C content in bottle gourd helps fight free radicals and may improve skin texture, reduce blemishes, and slow signs of aging. 7. Boosts Skin Health Surprisingly, bottle gourd is also considered good for mental well-being. Its high water content and cooling nature may help calm the nervous system and alleviate stress. 8. Relieves Stress and Anxiety
