An Early Childhood Development educator went the extra mile to Help ‘Little B’ on his big journey through learning challenges, and the results are proof that early intervention and extra care can mean all the difference in the world:
Strand, South Africa (17 November 2023) — When a little boy called ‘B’ was brought to Rise and Shine Educare Centre in Asanda Village earlier this year, he was extremely quiet and withdrawn. He also faced other learning challenges that would later be revealed. But, with enough support behind his early intervention, his days of playing catch-up are now long behind him.
His mother was eager for her four-year-old to learn to talk, which brought her to take little B to join educator Anezwa Xotyeni’s class at the centre.
Aneza became immediately aware of the challenges the little learner faced; including weak gross motor skills, difficulty cutting, drawing and colouring, amongst others. He also only said one word—’mama’. But, like any good educator, Aneza knew she needed to help him as best she could, especially if it meant going the extra mile.
Being passionate about children as an Early Childhood Development educator, Anezwa brought his struggles to the attention of the Masikhule Occupational Therapist (OT) who began mentoring Aneza twice a month. They also made sure B was included in the monthly group OT sessions.
Masikhule, an NPO that trains people from marginalised communities to be ECD educators, is nothing if not determined to give people as much of a chance as possible. This ethos was reflected in Anezwa’s determination with B, and resulted in a hugely inspiring turn-around for the young learner.
B was re-screened in October, and this time he was not the four-year-old he used to be. The results were a sigh of relief to his family and showcased a turn-around that has, in a matter of months, changed the trajectory of this child’s life.
Two key highlights of little B’s growth include purposeful play and the value of an integrated approach to learning.
Masikhule shares:
“Empowering Anezwa, his ECD educator, and using her link with B’s parents to ensure a team approach, has seen B developing in leaps and bounds. His balance and coordination, his fine motor skills — pencil control and drawing skills in particular, and learning foundations are now developing as expected for his age level.
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“As his general skills and language improve, so has his self-confidence and self-belief. He loves to take part in play and learning activities and is now happily part of his peer group.”
He can now identify his colours, numbers and shapes, and his confidence to speak and learn is said to be increasing every day.
Aneza, one of the heroes of little B’s story and someone else whose life-trajectory was changed thanks to Masikhule, has been praised for having played a vital role in his development by consistently learning more and extending her care.
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