Humanstories

When Khumo first started school in January, the transition was not easy for him. He cried every day and kept to himself. He did not speak to others, and many people began to worry, even assuming that he might be slow to learn.

However, Khumo was quietly observing everything around him.

Although he rarely joined group activities, a closer look revealed something special. Khumo showed remarkable focus and awareness — he could stack blocks with perfect balance and always remembered exactly where each toy belonged. His silence was not a weakness; it was a sign of deep observation and understanding.

As time went on, Khumo began to show his true character in the most unexpected and touching ways.

One day during lunch, something incredible happened. A two-year-old girl in the class was refusing to eat. Without being asked, Khumo gently stepped in. He showed her how he was eating and encouraged her to try. With patience and kindness, he stayed by her side until she finally began to eat.

This moment revealed Khumo’s caring and nurturing nature. He not only looks after himself but also shows compassion towards others, especially the younger children in the class.

Today, Khumo continues to grow, quietly but confidently, proving that being different is not a limitation - it is a strength. His journey teaches us the importance of patience, understanding, and recognising the hidden potential in every child.

One of the most meaningful success stories from my ECD (roots of education day care) experience, aligned with Cotlands principles, is about a learner named Kgosi. When Kgosi first joined the programme, he showed delays in communication and struggled to interact with other children. He had a limited vocabulary and often became frustrated during activities that required participation.

Using the Cotlands play-based approach, I supported Kgosi through structured daily routines, learning through play, and intentional interaction.

Activities such as guided storytelling, singing, and small group play were used to stimulate his language development and social skills. I also used positive reinforcement and created a safe, nurturing environment where he felt comfortable expressing himself.

Over time, Kgosi began to show significant progress. He started using more words to communicate his needs, engaged confidently with his peers, and participated actively in learning activities. He also demonstrated improved emotional regulation and independence during daily routines.