POLOKWANE – Four women in Westenburg are hosting a holiday programme, offering children in their community free reading lessons.
Three of the women operate an aftercare programme, while the other is a teacher.
Vinichia Southern, Kathleen Stander, Lizell Whitehead and Wilma Wilson say the school holiday brings all sorts of temptations and they want children to focus on the right things.
Whitehead said their lessons started on June 26, and are held on Mondays and Wednesdays until schools reopen.
“These lessons are free of charge. We started with 11 children on Monday and by Wednesday the number had grown to almost 40 children. We anticipate a further increase in this number as there are many children who struggle to read.”
They are trying to instill a love for reading, she said.
“It is no use teaching them to read if they don’t use the skill.”
Younger children who are not of school-going age have also joined the group, and they are being kept busy with toys and other activities.
Wilson said she has a passion for helping children in her community and laying a solid foundation for their future.
“That is what motivates me to volunteer my time.”
Stander said reading is an essential skill and something she teaches wholeheartedly. “To know that I’m doing something for the future really inspires me to do more. Most of the children don’t have resources at home or access to books, but by coming here they get a little exposure.”
Southern said she loves being a part of the project.
“Many children struggle to read. I hope this initiative continues beyond the school holiday because it keeps children out of danger and they enjoy themselves while they learn.”
The ladies expressed appreciation for the parents who allow their children to attend the lessons.
The plan is to continue with the lessons in the future and expand the project beyond just reading.
For now, they request donations in the form of snacks for the learners during breaks.
