Here is a chance to explore fun and joy through some simple tasks of kindness and humanity.They say you have to challenge your kids early and often to help them grow into responsible individuals. Here, Malayala Manorama invites children to participate in a 20-day task challenge.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 20, Oct 8
Sunday's task is recommended by legendary singer K.J. Yesudas.
First up, congratulations to all students for completing the tasks in Twenty20 Challenge.
But you should never forget the various lessons you have learned from the Challenge and try to imbibe them in your life.
Today on the last day of your game, I have a simple yet important task to recommend.
I have this dream about a Kerala, where people live in harmony without harboring any kind of hatred towards one another.
We should live peacefully and happily in this God's own land. Keeping this noble thought in mind, write a a brief note on 'My vision of an ideal state'. You need to write only 10 sentences, and follow them as the guiding light of your life.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 19, Oct 7
Saturday's task is proposed by your favorite filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad.
I live in an house surrounded by the lush greenery of trees and farmlands. This serene greenery is what makes my heart long for my home when I'm away.
Why don't we make an attempt to find how green your surroundings are?
For that, check the following questionnaire I have put up for you. (Don't forget to check the points given in the brackets along with each question)
» How many trees are there in your yard? (Give 1 point for each tree)
» How many medicinal herbs? (1 point per herb)
» Is there a garden in your yard? (If yes, 5 points)
» Do you have a kitchen garden? (If yes, 5 points)
» What kind of fertilizer do you use in your garden or farm? (If it is bio-fertilzers, you get 5 points. If it is chemical, -5 points.)
» Does the bio waste generated at your home gets treated to make biogas? (If yes, 5 points.)
» Does your house have a rain-water harvesting system? (If yes, 5 points)
» How many large plastic vessels are being used in kitchen? (-1 point per vessel)
» Do you have any clay pots or vessels in your house? (1 point per vessel)
» Is there any solar electric systems at your house? (If yes, 5 points)
» Do you participate in activities like watering the plans, gardening and cleaning your yard? (If yes, 5 points)
» Do you ride bicycles? (If yes, 5 points)
Add all the points and check the final score. If your score is above 50, your house gets the green star rating. If you scored below 50, you start working to earn the green star from today itself.
Start exploring your house and premises with a pen and paper now itself!
Those who live at hostels can also check how green their buildings are. Those living at flats and apartments should check the common utilities with the help of their parents.
Note down the points you notice in your challenge book every day.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 18, Oct 6
If you have watched the movie 'Njandukalude Naatil Oridavela,' you would know that the movie is about a son who realizes his mother's disease very late in his life. For many reasons, we realize many things too late in life, especially when it is about our loved ones.
Your favorite actor Nivin Pauly has recommended your 18th task of this challenge. How about spending a day helping a person in need?
Here's what you have to do. Discuss among your friends in school and find a person, staying near your school or house, who needs immediate care and attention. There could be people struggling in their life due to many diseases.
With the help of your parents and teachers, conduct a survey and find a person whom you think deserves your day. This task is not just for a day but make sure that you contact them and reach out to them. Be the change!
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 17, Oct 5
We are all familiar with the name Abhilash Tomy, the daring commander who went on a solo, non-stop circumnavigation sail around the world. Thursday's task is recommended by him.
Shall we give a one-day break to all the electronic screens around us for today? Keep away the mobile phones and video games.
Instead, spend your time by exploring nature. Look around you. Enjoy the fresh green hues and the sweet chirping of birds. See the world!
None of you carry mobile phones to school. But when you come back, instead of spending your time on mobile phones, try this task.
There is one more task. When you get a break or some free time in school, go to the library. Take a globe or a world map or an atlas. Close your eyes and place your index finger on a random point on it. Gather as much information as you can about the place you touched on the map, let it be on land or ocean. But not from Internet, but using books or by asking to teachers and elders.
Start exploring the world!
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 16, Oct 4
Hope you all are waiting for the sixteenth task in Twenty20 Challenge. Wednesday's task was proposed by popular Malayalam actor Dulquer Salmaan.
There is a dialog from the film 'Ustad Hotel' which is "anyone can fill anyone's stomach. But those who eat should be satisfied mentally too." This is one of my favorite dialogs which is absolutely true.
When we have food, our stomach fills. But, only if love is added to that food we are mentally satisfied. So, how about we have our food mentally satisfied? This is your task for today!
When you have lunch at school today, share it with your friends. I am sure most of you already does that everyday. With sharing, you can strengthen your friendship too.
The task is not over yet. During the next holiday, see if there is anyone starving in the streets near your home and feed them. But do this only with the permission of your parents.
If you share something, everything doubles, especially love and happiness. So let's share and spread love!
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 15, Oct 3
The 15th task of our Twenty-20 Challenge is proposed by union minister of state Alphons Kannanthanam.
Plastic wastes are menace to Kerala, they mar the beauty of our green state. It is our duty to fight against it.
So, today when you reach school, just think about how you can reduce the use of plastic. You can seek help from your teachers.
During intervals, collect all the plastic wastes from your class and school compound. Ask your teachers how to get rid of it in a proper way.
Before you leave the school, you must take a pledge that you won't use plastic.
You must collect the plastic wastes from your home too and tell your parents to avoid plastic bags while shopping. Instead, use cloth-bags that are eco-friendly.
Dear teachers and parents, support the children wholeheartedly while doing the task. You must also reduce the use of plastic materials. Lets make a plastic-free Kerala!
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 14, Oct 2
Oct 2 is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of our nation. So keep aside this day for our Gandhiji. The fourteenth task is recommended by noted Malayalam poet and activist Sugathakumari.
Gandhiji always urged people to do their duties on their own and not to depend on others. So, Monday's task is to keep your house and surroundings clean. You can seek help from your parents too.
You must also plant a tree in your compound. Not just plant it, you should name it and must take care of it.
The task is not over, write down 10 points about Mahatma Gandhi too.
Dear parents, your must really support and help your children in doing these tasks.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 13, Oct 1
Hope you all are waiting for the thirteenth task in Twenty20 Challenge. Sunday's task was recommended by popular playback singer K.S. Chithra.
What do you talk to your mother? Maybe you'll talk abut your needs, complaints and ambitions. But have you ever asked your mother about what she has to say?
As it is a Sunday, keep aside this day for your mother. Ask her what she liked during her childhood? What are her dreams, ambition, favorite songs etc? And write it down. You must also write down the lyrics of her favorite songs and sing it along with her.
You can also ask any women whom you respect like your mother - it can be your grandmother, sister or your aunts.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 12, Sept 30
“Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action” These are the words of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
What do you dream of becoming when you grow up? What will you return to society that helped you to dream more?
Your twelfth task of Twenty-20 challenger proposed by Mohan Kumar, DPI is to find some innovative ideas to transform the society and thereby provide a good environment for the future generation to grow up and learn from it. Your ambitious ways will make our planet a better place!
Don't forget to put down your ideas in your challenge book.
Remember, it's always news ideas and dreams that bring transformation.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 11, Sept 29
Here's your eleventh task of our Twenty-20 challenge proposed by your favorite actress Manju Warrier.
There are lot of people around us who makes our life easier. Have you ever thought of acknowledging their hard work? Dedicate your day for those unsung heroes who help us indirectly in our daily life routine. Gift something special for them and bring a smile on their face.
It could be anyone- the person who brings your newspaper or milk as soon as you wake up, the driver who takes you safely to your school and back home, the person who keeps your school clean even before you reach there, or the security guards in your school. Talk to them, listen to them and acknowledge their work. Thank them for making your life easier.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 10, Sept 28
Today we've the tenth task in Twenty20 challenge!Let's dedicate this day to friendship as we reach mid-way in our game, and celebrate it! This task is proposed by popular Malayalam actor Kunchako Boban.
Friendship is one of the most precious assets in life. Most often life-long relations among friends bloom in schools.I'm sure all of you will have dear friends at school. This day is for them.Write a note today for your dearest friend at school. You have to write three things:
- 1. Why is he or she your friend
- 2. What is it that you like most in that friend?
- 3. What is his most important potential?
You can write the note during your interval time at school.If possible, you can also offer your friend a gift along with the note. (Only if it's possible; your beautiful note itself becomes a gift to your friend).If you consider more than one among your best friends, you can write the note for all of them!
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 9, Sept 27
Hope you all are waiting for the ninth task of our challenge. Today's task is recommended by Indian hockey star P. R. Sreejesh.
“As a sports person, I firmly believe that health is everything. Not just for players, but everyone. If there is good health you can succeed in many ways. We must be physically fit always. Good hygiene, exercise, food, sleep etc are the basics of fitness. So, let's start our journey towards a healthy life.
Today onwards, you must start doing some exercises. Go out for a walk or do some stretching exercises in the morning. In the evening, play any outdoor games or ride your bicycle if you have one. Don't do all these without permission from your parents.
When you are at school, don't sit idle, be active. During break time go for a walk or play any games.
This is not a one-day task, you must continue it everyday.
Malayalam actor Mohanlal said in the 4th task, 'always smile and don't stop it'. Like that never stop your exercises.
Twenty-20 Challenge, Task 8, Sept 26
It's the eighth task of our Twenty-20 Challenge. Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is each and everyone's responsibility to protect its beauty and surroundings.
You task for today is recommended by Kerala local administration minister K. T. Jaleel.
Today, when you reach school, discuss about any environmental issues in your area with your friends. It can be of garbage dumped on public roads or waterbodies, air or sound pollution.
After discussion, write down the points and prepare a letter. You can send the letter to the panchayat/municipality/corporation area of your school, after getting permission from your teachers. No need for individual letters, just one letter from a single class will be enough. I 'll tell the local administration body to sort out the issues.
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 7, Sept 25
Hope you all are waiting for the seventh task of our challenge. Monday's task is recommended by Kerala excise commissioner Rishiraj Singh.
These days, the use of alcohol and drugs is creating a lot of problems in our society. We must fight against it together. So, your task is to come up with an apt slogan against alcohol and drug abuse.
You can create the slogan by yourself or as a group with your friends. You can seek help from your teachers or parents too. Hope you'll come up with some good, powerful slogans.
Along with the task, I also need your help.
If you see anyone using or distributing drugs or alcohol around your house or school, inform me confidentially. You can contact me at this number: 904804441
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 6, Sept 24:
It's the sixth task of our Twenty-20 Challenge. Hope you learned 10 new Malayalam words about agriculture.
Just imagine, one day you got Rs 100. How will you spend it? The calculation of income and expenditure is known as a budget.
Your task suggested by Kerala finance minister Thomas Isaac is simple. As it is a holiday for students, how about trying to calculate your family's budget?
You must ask your parents about their monthly incomes and also calculate the expenditure of a particular month. Write this down and see where all you can reduce the expenditure.
If you can do it, then you will be able to better understand your family's monthly budget. You can achieve this task with the help of your parents or siblings.
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 5, Sept 23:
Now, let's focus on our food providers. You need to meet farmers near your school or homes. You need to interact with them and get a better understanding about farming and agricultural equipment. You can ask anything related to the field of agriculture and learn 10 new words in Malayalam.
However, if there are no farmers near your house or school, check with your parents or teachers.
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 4, Sept 22:
It's the fourth task of our Twenty-20 challenge. Hope you all made some creative stuffs out of waste materials yesterday.
Smile is a curve that sets things straight. It is true that smile is a way to solve many problems. Start your day with a smile and make an effort to put a smile on everyone's face.
Your task suggested by superstar Mohanlal is very simple. Before going to school, hug your loved ones at home and give them a warm kiss. If you meet elders on your way to school, greet them or say good morning.
This task will not end today. Wake up tomorrow with a smile on your face and share your happiness with everyone.
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 3, Sept 21:
Hope you all are waiting for the third task of our challenge. Today's task is recommended by magician Gopinath Mudukad. How many of you are interested in trying magic trick? Most of you would at least like to know how a trick is usually executed. Gopinath Muthukad urges you to try a transformation magic today.
Now what's transformation magic? It's simple.
Find out ways to reuse waste in creative and innovative ways. For example, you can use an empty bottle and transform it into a flower vase or use old newspapers and make a paper bag out of it. These are some simple and easy ways to reuse waste materials. But you can come up with more creative ideas.
You can thereby produce less waste while contributing to the progressively important work towards sustainability. Don't forget to get help from your loved ones. Have fun on you holiday!
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 2, Sept 20:
It's the second task of our Twenty-20 challenge. Hope you have surprised your favorite teachers with lovely gifts. Our surprise celebrity, Mammootty, has the next task for you.
Whether you are cramming for school or being lazy, never forget to read books other than your textbooks. Your megastar is asking you to choose a book of your choice or to get the help of your teacher to find a good book for your day. Pick a book from your school library or buy a book. If a book is worth reading, it's worth buying too.
So start reading your book today itself. Enjoy!
Twenty-20 Challenge Task 1, Sep 18:
Let's begin this game by honoring our teachers. Start your new week by presenting a small gift to your favorite teacher. It could be a small toffee or a beautiful flower, the cost of which absolutely doesn’t matter. It’s just to bring that incredible smile on your beloved teacher's face
As the rain havoc has forced schools to shut for the day, you get two days to complete your first task. You can give the gift to your teachers Tuesday, September 19.
Start your task, but first listen to what education minister C Raveendranath has to say: "All those who impart knowledge are our teachers. Let your gifts bring a smile to your teachers, who have been the guiding light for the little ones."
Why? Because we believe simple acts of kindness will bring much more joy to our children and to others than a box of chocolates ever will.
Depending on your child’s age, some tasks we have put together under this Twenty-20 Challenge might need a parent’s help or guidance.
How to play
From Monday (September 18), check your Manorama daily to know the challenge for the day. The kids have to complete the task and maintain a log by writing down their experience, pasting pictures, if any, or by illustrations in a book.
Once the Twenty-20 Challenge is completed, the students should get it signed by parents and teachers, and send it to Manorama. The best logbooks will win prizes worth Rs 3.85 lakh. Students from class 1 to 12, irrespective of their syllabus, can participate in this game. So get ready to perform the Twenty-20 tasks!
