Kerala grandmother wins hearts online by teaching children cursive writing in sand, internet praises her simple zero-waste learning method; watch video

An elderly grandmother from Kerala is winning hearts on social media for her simple yet thoughtful approach to teaching children. Her story highlights how learning can take place without expensive classroom supplies, relying instead on a dedicated teacher, sand and patience.

Known locally as Ashaatti Ammumma, the grandmother features in a heartwarming video shared on Instagram by the account Mom of Safaachiii. In the clip, she transforms an ordinary patch of ground into an open-air classroom, where a group of children gathers for writing practice.

Ashaatti Ammumma Turns An Open Space Into A Classroom

Sitting on the ground with a small container of sand beside her, Ashaatti Ammumma spreads a thin, even layer of sand across. She smooths the surface with a small stick before beginning the lesson.


Once the makeshift writing surface is ready, she starts drawing letters in the sand, demonstrating how to form cursive letters and guiding the children through each stroke.

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A post shared by Mom of Safachiiii 🤍 (@mom_of_safaachiiii)

The children sit cross-legged opposite her, paying close attention to the lesson. Instead of using notebooks, pens or crayons, they practise by tracing the letters directly into the sand with their fingers.

Children Learn Through A Simple, Hands-On Method

The video showcases a traditional and interactive approach to learning, allowing children to practise writing by following the grandmother's examples. They can trace the letters themselves, correct mistakes and repeat the exercise as many times as needed.

The simple setup also makes the activity accessible, showing that children can practise basic writing skills with readily available materials rather than relying entirely on conventional stationery.

A Zero-Waste Approach To Learning

Beyond the heartwarming interaction between the grandmother and the children, viewers have also highlighted the practical benefits of the method. Using sand creates a reusable writing surface, making the activity a low-waste alternative to paper-based practice.

Whenever a child makes a mistake or needs more space, the sand can simply be smoothed out again. The children can then start afresh without erasing marks from a notebook or using another sheet of paper.

The video has drawn attention to how a simple outdoor activity can combine learning, creativity and resourcefulness, with Ashaatti Ammumma's teaching method offering a reminder that meaningful learning does not always require elaborate resources.