The Song In Her Heart

Girl in traditional Mizo attire dancing the Cheraw with bamboo poles.

READ

PARENT-TEACHER GUIDE

The Song In Her Heart

Average Rating: 0.0

Country: India (Northeast – Mizoram)

Ages: 5-8

Author: Shamim Padamsee

Publisher: Zamasama Original

Illustrator: Eight young artists with hearing disabilities

About The Story

Ringluia, a young girl from Mizoram in Northeast India, dreams of dancing the Cheraw—an elegant and rhythmic bamboo dance performed during festivals. But Ringluia has a hearing impairment, and the beat of the music is difficult for her to follow. As her classmates rehearse, she feels left out. With quiet wisdom, her grandmother teaches her to feel the music—not just with her ears but through her hands and heart. Slowly, Ringluia learns to trust her body and instincts, dancing with grace and joy. What makes this story even more special is that it has been illustrated by eight talented young artists, all of whom are hearing‑impaired. Their art brings Ringluia’s world to life, expressing resilience, joy, and the beauty of inclusion through every page. This story celebrates family support, cultural tradition, and the strength that comes from believing in yourself—reminding us all that children with disabilities can achieve anything with the right encouragement.

Themes

Inclusion & Disability

Social & Emotional Learning

Culture & Tradition

Sub Themes

Hearing Impairment & Inclusion

Traditional Dance & Cultural Pride

Confidence, Perseverance & Self‑Expression

Intergenerational Relationships

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

Have better understanding of physical disabilities and inclusion.
Appreciation of Northeast India’s traditional dance and music.
Strengthened empathy and emotional connection with peers.
Appreciate the importance of inclusive practices in schools and communities.
Reflect on perseverance and emotional support from loved ones.
Empathize with peers who may be facing challenges.

Activities

1. Feel the Beat - Students close their eyes while a drum or table is tapped. They place a hand on the surface to sense rhythm through vibration.
2. Cheraw Dance Demo - Watch a short video of the Cheraw dance. Use two broom handles or yardsticks (safely) to let students try simple steps, ensuring inclusive adaptations.
3. Grandparent Wisdom - Children interview a grandparent or elder about a cultural tradition they love and share the story with the class (picture or short paragraph).
4. Inclusion Brainstorm : In groups, brainstorm ways the class can include peers with different abilities (visual, hearing, mobility) in games and lessons. Make an 'Inclusion Promise' poster.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

What is something you love doing that took time to learn?
Have you ever felt left out of something? How did that feel?

During reading

Why does Ringluia hesitate to dance at first?
What role does her grandmother play in helping her build confidence?
How does Ringluia begin to sense the rhythm?

After reading

How can we make sure all children feel included, even if they have hearing or other disabilities?
Why do you think Ringluia succeeds in the end?
What would you do if you saw someone being excluded?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Promotes inclusive education that embraces diverse learners, including children with disabilities.

SDG 10 — Reduced Inequalities

Highlights the need to reduce social and cultural barriers that limit participation of children with impairments.

Comments

There are no comments