A young child’s transition into a full-day educational setting is both exciting and challenging for any parent or caregiver. On September 16th, CHOSA hosted an Early Childhood Development workshop and networking event focused on getting children prepared for Grade 1. CHOSA hosts events of this nature regularly to build capacity and increase the skills and knowledge of the careworkers and community members serving children in our affiliated projects and communities. These workshops also give women and men serving children in various parts of Cape Town the opportunity to come together and learn from one another.

Last month’s workshop was facilitated by an Occupational Therapist from the University of Cape Town, and focused on the educational needs of children before they enter Grade 1. The workshop emphasized the importance of teaching a child basic physical and educational skills such as concentration, balance, and identifying letters, shapes and colors. Teachers and careworkers also learned how to encourage the physical development of young children; for example, the need for babies to balance on their elbows while they lie on their stomach, so they can develop their shoulder muscles and grow up healthy and strong. The facilitator also taught active games which teachers and careworkers can use to facilitate the children’s physical development, while also teaching them important lessons in a fun and interactive manner.

Everyone in attendance came away with a deeper understanding of early childhood development and how teachers and caregivers can take into account the unique needs of each child in their care. At the end of the day, they gave their feedback and shared words of wisdom with one another from their own experiences. Overall, it was a fun and educational event that will benefit countless children as the women apply what they have learned back at their children’s projects.