Like adults, it is also important for children to take care of their mental and physical health in order to function optimally in day-to-day activities.With this in mind, children from eBhekuzulu gathered at a basketball court on Saturday to play ‘Goofy Games’. Ngcebo Mkhize, who organised the games, mentioned that the whole aim was for the children to work on their mental and physical fitness. “Goofy Games have a lot to do with following instructions, which is good for the mental part.’’ Mkhize explained that they have a programme called ‘The War Room – Each One Teach One’, where they help primary and high school learners after school. ‘’As we teach learners, it is important for them to listen and follow the instructions we give them. It’s no lie that when they study all the time, they get bored… so, with the ‘Goofy Games’, we try and find activities for the children to enjoy being at the War Room.’’ He further explained that when it comes to the physical part of things, the children test their physical strength and speed. “They play games like tug-of-war, and do running and also jumping.”Mkhize mentioned that, as a team working with children, their main purpose is to make sure that youngsters stay away from substance abuse, crime and other negative activities in the community. ‘’We normally take the kids from an early age so that they learn time management and use their time on productive activities.” About 40 learners attend the after-school programme; mostly primary school pupils, where they help them with all their subjects. The high school learners receive tutorials in Mathematics, Physical Science and English.At the games, two MCs (Manqoba and Leeroy) entertained the children and the crowd of spectators. Mkhize added that before this event was launched, he encountered challenges with finances and marketing, as he could not only rely on digital media to market his event; he had to make posters. Mkhize thanks his partner, Nontobeko Tsela; Sifiso ‘Monate’ Ntombela for the sound equipment and 3105 water for supplying water during the event and Mnelisi Zulu.Entrepreneurs Day is the next event for the children.
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