Last week, our team in Phang Nga organized a training for vulnerable children, many of whom grow up without parents. We taught them about children's rights. Mali (a fictitious name) talks about his life and what he learned during the training.
“My name is Mali. I am 9 years old and live in the south of Thailand. My family does not have it easy. We live in poverty and my mother works hard, but earns little. Because of this, it was becoming increasingly difficult for me to go to school. Sometimes I was often alone because my mother was at work and there was no one who could take me to school.“
“When my school started to worry, Siam-Care came to see how I and my family were doing. Together with my teachers, they looked for a solution. Thanks to support for my school costs, I can hopefully continue learning and build a better future. They are also looking into the possibilities for my younger brother or sister. Moreover, after school, I have a place where I don’t have to be alone.” (text continues below the photo)
“Ik ontdek dat ik mag aangeven wat ik wel en niet prettig vind. Dat is belangrijk voor mij en voor alle andere kinderen die opgroeien in omstandigheden waarin bescherming niet vanzelfsprekend is.”
Mali is not the only one growing up in difficult circumstances.
“In my neighborhood, there are more children growing up in difficult circumstances. Some live with their grandparents, others with relatives or one of their parents. Our parents are often absent because they have to work long days. Or sometimes for other reasons, which I don't always understand. Friends of mine who are even younger than me are also often home alone.”
That makes them extra vulnerable. They need not only practical support, but also adults who look out for them, protect them, and teach them what their rights are. Because if no one in the family tells them about it, how do you know what is and isn't allowed?
My body is mine
That is why the Siam-Care Phang Nga team recently organized an activity for six vulnerable children aged 7 to 11. We gathered in a safe place, played games, and learned about children's rights. Afterwards, we practiced role-playing. We discovered that every child has the right to protection and control over their own body. We learned the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touch. We also practiced how to clearly say no, walk away if something doesn't feel right, and ask for help from an adult you trust.
The children participated actively, asked questions, and came up with their own ideas about what they would do in unsafe situations. They learned that they are allowed to set boundaries and seek help if someone crosses those boundaries, even if it involves an adult.
Standing up for children who need protection
Children are supposed to be safe. Yet some children grow up without enough adults to protect them or explain their rights. That is precisely why it is important that someone stands up for them.
Our team at Siam-Care wants to be there for these children. Not only by helping with school costs and guidance, but also by teaching them that they are valuable, that their voice matters, and that they have a right to safety.
Will you help a family like Mali's?
Do you think (helping) children like Mali is important? Then consider supporting a family, so that our team can help them on their way and look after them. Hier lees je meer over familie-ondersteuning.