Toy library to aid kids’ learning

NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - After much planning and preparation, the launch of Maranatha’s Toy Library took place on Friday 22 March, at ‘Shalom’, the residence of Albie and Trudi Basson, in Martin Street.

The Toy Library will be functioning from this address temporarily until the building on the Maranatha premises has been completed.

The goal of this library is to help children attending Lettie de Klerk School to develop and improve their reading skills through play. Life skills will also be linked to most sessions.

The life skills and reading sessions will be connected to a theme each week, for example: fire protection, dental care, farm animals etc.

Opportunities will also be given for mothers and their toddlers to enjoy play sessions together. This will enlighten mothers as to how to stimulate their toddlers and thus develop good motor and perception skills, which will prepare them for school.

Founder of the project, dr. Trudi Basson, believes that play helps children with stress release, problem solving, balance, hand-eye co-ordination, social and mathematical skills.

The reading corner.

At the launch the children of Pienaarsig had the opportunity to listen to a story demonstrated by one of the Care Workers from Siyakatala Child and Youth Care Centre in Port Elizabeth - a project of Maranatha Streetworkers Trust. The choir from Aunty Evelyn’s soup kitchen entertained everyone and delicious eats were enjoyed by all.

The sponsors were thanked and the name of the Heavenly Father glorified for making this possible for the children who have limited resources in this isolated village.

According to dr. Basson, the biggest reward for the time and energy that went into the project was hearing the children’s joy and laughter while they enjoyed the resources provided by the library.

Refreshments for the children.

Albie Basson will be training 12 students from Pienaarsig, Nieu-Bethesda within the next month on the subject of child care. These students will also undergo their practical at the Toy Library.