As with previous years, this year has not been without challenges. Challenges invariably call for some form of action from us. We can run and hide, or stand firm, facing the challenge head on. Child care requires that we work developmentally with children and each other as a staff team. One of the guiding principles of the developmental approach is to view challenge, in its many shapes and sizes, as opportunity for growth. And so, as we as an organisation pause to reflect on the year past and look to planning for the New Year, we felt that you might find it interesting to hear of some of the lessons learnt.
- We learnt through our efforts that group remedial work is helpful but not always the most effective. Covid restrictions brought to the fore the many struggles our children experience with academics. Funding allowed for professional individual tuition which provided significant assistance, not only for exam preparation but more importantly addressed gaps in understanding work. The results of those who used the opportunity has been encouraging.
- A little persistence and useful investigation can change a story. This was proven when our social workers responded to a lead that the biological father of one of our youngster’s was in fact still alive and unaware that his son was in care. With perseverance, some detective work, and burning hope, one clue led to another which resulted in us reuniting a father with his son!
- Sometimes help comes in unexpected ways. Miracles happen, and prayers are answered through unanticipated channels, as was the case when a donor visited to help share some light at the centre during loadshedding, with emergency lights and left also having opened the door for our teenagers to access an online leadership course.
- The way you treat people is important. Good manners, kindness and respect make an impression on people. Maintaining relationship with all our donors and friends, irrespective of the size of their donation, with a smile, sincere thank you or courteous email makes an enormous difference. We all know that giving should not be done with the intent to getting something in return, however we all want to feel that our efforts are appreciated.
- Children with emotional wounds often express their pain through aggression, defiance, self-harming, and blatant disrespect for others. Focussing on the hurting child behind the negative expression of pain is a challenge that requires professional responses delivered with genuine concern and a caring heart. To see or hear from those who were once in our care, embracing life, with all its ups and downs, makes facing the challenging behaviour of children so very worthwhile.
We trust that sharing our learning from these few challenges will challenge you to reframe your challenges and see the opportunity for growth that lie in each and every one of them.
Best wishes to you and your loved ones for a blessed and safe Christmas and a prosperous New Year!