Jill Gurr

We started our day at 2:00 PM. Around ten kids, ages 4-9 years old, came to the center after being picked up by Forthspring staff at their schools. The program recently lost their funding and now depends on fees paid by local parents.

LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The staff helps the children with their homework, then has a featured activity for the day, such as making chalk drawings or creating plastic bead jewelry. They must follow strict laws which require a creative display board showcasing the environment (like paper spring flowers and butterflies).

There has to be a puzzle available and also building toys, such as “Legos” or wooden blocks. Ultimately, it’s the kids who decide what they’re going to do.

I got a big kick out of seeing Rafiki playing “house” with little girls, especially since his experience is with boys who mostly play football (soccer).

The kids take a Hip Hop Workshop each week.

Rafiki played video games for the first time in his life! He really bonded with this boy Nathan.

I enjoyed finger-painting with the kids. The time that I spent playing with them was great fun! I found them to be sweet, charming, bright and full of creativity. They reminded me how important it is to use your imagination and to live in the moment.