Children in Papua Begin to Learn Literacy at Home
Delina still remembers the first day she attended the Parenting Awareness Workshop organized by WVI. As a young mother with a two-year-old child, Delina felt anxious and unsure about the best way to support her child's development. "From this training, I learned how to teach from coloring, drawing, and counting activities for children," she said excitedly. "After the training, I started applying everything I learned to my child and also to the children in PAUD (early childhood education center). I know teaching this now is for the future!".
Delina was not the only one who felt the change. Kristina, a 26-year-old mother, felt confused before attending the training. "Previously, I didn't know how to teach children. From this training, I know how to introduce numbers and letters to children," she said. The training gave Kristina the skills and confidence to become the first educator for her children.
Similarly, Anike (29 years old), acknowledged the great benefits of this training. "This training is very useful for us. From this training, I started sticking letters, pictures, and numbers on the walls of the PAUD classroom so that children can learn. Besides that, I can also help my three-year-old brother by creating a reading corner at home," she said. Anike has seen firsthand how crucial the environment can influence children's interest and literacy skills.
After gaining new insights and applying them in their respective homes, children and parents in one village in Papua have experienced significant changes. PAUD has been regularly held at five points in the village. In fact, one cultural leader donated his house to be used as a early childhood education center. This is clear evidence that literacy programs not only improve children's skills but also build community awareness and involvement in supporting education.
With the support and guidance of WVI and the Education Section of the parish in the village, parents now feel more prepared and confident in supporting their children's education. Parents hope that this guidance and training will continue so that more people can gain the knowledge and skills needed to teach and support children's education.
This training activity can be implemented thanks to the support of sponsors and donors who participated in Childhood Hope. With the right commitment and support, the future of children in Papua is brighter. Let's support this program and its sustainability, and together bring about positive change for Indonesian children.
Author: Joko Prasetiyo (Area Programme Manager in Pegunungan Tengah, Papua)
Editor: Mariana Kurniawati (Communication Executive)
