“Handle with care: contains dreams”
Education support and holistic care is changing Laura’s life.
Laura* is an 8-year-old girl living in a low-income community with her seven siblings in a single room that is in disrepair. For years, she wasn't going to school. Thanks to Red Viva Paraguay joining the UNICEF "Let's go to school" campaign, Laura's life is beginning to turn around.
She was able to join a Learning Space – called CAFIs (Comprehensive Learning and Training Centres) in Latin America - run by Red Viva Paraguay and supported by Viva. Learning Spaces are places where children receive education support and holistic care.
Initially, her engagement in play therapy raised concerns. She arrived dirty and with misfitting clothes; her motor skills were not what they should have been for her age, and she was disengaged and showed little interest. When asked why she wasn’t in school, she replied, "I don't have my documents; that's why I can't go."
When asked to tell the volunteer staff what she does at home, Laura, matter-of-factly and with some sense of pride, explained her contribution to her family is by lighting the charcoal stove and preparing stew for the family's meal: "If I don't cook, we don't eat." Much of her time is spent caring for her siblings.
A second question made her light up: "What would you like to be when you grow up?" Her response was immediate; without hesitation, Laura stopped fixing her eyes on the plasticine she was playing with and responded, "Doctor!!"
The sessions have made a huge difference in Laura's life. With professional help, her motor skills are improving, and CAFI volunteers have mobilised network members to improve the living conditions for Laura and her family.
Laura's journey of change was highlighted during a spa day organised for girls. Volunteers reported that she enjoyed facial treatments, a hair wash and hair styling, alongside getting her nails painted. At the end of the day, Laura was given some clothes as a gift. Her happiness was evident through her big smiles, and her potential for joy, despite difficulties in life, was a powerful reminder to the staff and volunteers of the Learning Centre of the important work they are doing. Their conclusion is that "Every child should carry a sign that says: ‘handle with care, contains dreams.'"
* Name changed. Image is representative. Photo credit: Flavio Leão (istockphoto.com)