US First Lady says curriculum inspiring as inquisitive kids ask her ‘How big is America?’ ‘Is US very far’

The US First Lady, Melania Trump, who visited a Delhi Government school on Tuesday to have first-hand experience of the unique  “Happiness Curriculum”, virtually turned herself into a student by joining the schoolchildren in the class activities.

Along with the students, Melania participated in meditation, storytelling and other relaxing activities at Sarvodaya Co-Educational Senior Secondary School at Moti Bagh in South Delhi.

Melania was surprised to see the inquisitiveness of the curious kindergarten students who asked her many questions, like “How big is America?” “Is it very far?” “Which is your favourite cartoon?”

Later the US First Lady said the “Happiness Curriculum” is inspiring and has set a “healthy and positive” example for educators.

Excited students dressed in traditional attire welcomed Melania at the school that was decked up with floral garlands. She was all smiles as she joined the students in three classrooms, where she was briefed by the teachers. Melania interacted with the children, before enjoying boisterous dance performances by the youngsters.

After lighting the ceremonial lamp, the First Lady took a tour of the school, heading to a reading room for class 4 students where she attended a storytelling session.

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‘Happiness Class’ gets new student in Melania

The First Lady, who donned a white embroidered shirt-dress paired  with a red belt, visited an activity classroom for kindergarten students  where she sat among the children who were engaged in drawing, clay modelling and playing with building blocks.

'How big is America', 'Is it very far', 'What do you do as the First Lady', 'What is your favourite cartoon" were among the few questions asked by the curious kindergarten students.

Melania then headed to the playground to observe a yoga session where students were performing 'surya namaskar' (Sun salutation). The First Lady also meditated with class 4 students in their "happiness class"."I am feeling very relaxed," she said after the brief meditation as part of "mindfulness" activity of the 'Happiness Class'.

 The 'Happiness Class' was started by the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi Government schools in 2018. As part of the programme, students are taught various activities, including meditation, street plays, basic obedience and aims to reduce anxiety and stress levels among children.

While Melania enjoyed the foot tapping number, a student in the audience became the show-stealer with his impromptu jig as everyone including the First Lady cheered for him. When the child suddenly scooted up to perform 'bhangra' moves, the security men were taken by surprise and one of them stepped forward but did not interfere.

Addressing the students, Melania praised the concept of happiness class and spoke of her similar 'Be Best' initiative to promote well-being.

 "It is my first visit to India and I am grateful to have received such a warm welcome today. The name of this school 'sarvodya' means prosperity for all.