This year, missionary Jaemin invited to guide the teachers from 25 Khayelithsa preschools with Montessori skills. We decided on phonics for the year’s training. Helen led monthly seminars and Ms. Wendy and Pinky visited the preschools every Tuesday. It was a great blessing for Ms. Wendy and Pinky as well, because they could see how far they have come with their own training with us. Also, it was clear that their knowledge and skills (especially their love for children) were encouraging Khayelitsha teachers greatly. Our main intention was for the Khayelitsha teachers to build stronger relationships with the children and enjoy working with them. Therefore for the first four months we worked on communication skills such as listening and giving directions to children. At the evaluation, we could sense that the children were not the teachers’ struggles and frustrations any more, but the relationship and working together has made children a step closer to being their pride and joy.
