The early childhood years are essential for the proper mental, physical, emotional and social development of the child. This lays the foundation for the child's future. Thus, it is very essential to provide children with quality pre-school education. It is with this objective that GMRVF has initiated Bala Badis (BBs) in five villages in 2004. Today, GMRVF is running around 63 Bala Badis at different locations.

These Bala Badis provide joyful learning along with inculcating good habits in children in the three-five year age group. A nutritious snack is provided daily to the children. In addition, efforts are made to develop the innate abilities of the children through activities like songs, games etc. The concerted efforts with this age group has helped in school-preparedness while also engaging parents in their ward’s learning process.

Bala Badis help to dispel the children’s anxiety and fear towards school while also making school-going a habit. Frequent PTA interactions also help parents to become actively involved in their children's education. In addition, Bala Badis also play an important role in keeping the older siblings in schools. Often older sisters or brothers have to stay at home to look after the younger ones when the parents are away at work. By caring for the younger children, BBs help older children attend school.

GMRVF has also extended support to Anganwadis through MoUs with the local Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) department. Currently 17 Anganwadis are being supported.

Objectives:

• To contribute to the healthy physical, mental, emotional and personal development of the children.
• To aid in the all-round development of the children and to teach them to treat others with respect and concern
• To help children develop a positive self image, confidence and good personal habits
• To prepare the children to enter school.
• To provide medical attention and nutritional supplements to aid in the healthy development of the child.

Process:
Before starting a Bala Badi, the Foundation conducts a baseline survey/analysis of children in the 3-5 age group focusing especially on those who are out of the anganwadis in the area.

• Bala Badi are set up with instructors and volunteers drawn from the village itself. They are provided proper training in order to fulfill their duties and responsibilities.
• Children attending the BBs are provided a health snack everyday and are also given regular health checkups.
• The Foundation supervises and monitors the BBs regularly to ensure the proper development and growth of the children.

Achievement/ strengths:

Bala Badis are being run across almost all GMRVF locations.

Some highlights:

• Use of creative materials
• Up-to-date maintenance of records
• Health check-ups
• Daily nutritional snacks
• Individual care and attention for children