Kindness, diligence, compassion, and bravery were qualities that shone brightly among 10 South African junior schoolchildren who were selected as ambassadors to their peers.
Praising and rewarding children for what Toys R Us South Africa calls ‘good’ behaviour and etiquette has gained popularity among schools who say more children are encouraged to do good.
The competition, now in its third year, encourages children to display exemplary behaviour.
Through the exciting competition, aspirant children from participating schools across the country will be acknowledged and rewarded for simply displaying good etiquette.
The competition, which kicked off in May, sees each school select a child, each month, who exemplifies the qualities of a ‘do-gooder’.
The monthly regional winners will serve as ambassadors to their peers by demonstrating their selfless acts of kindness and compassion and function as positive role models in their communities.
Each winner receives a R500 Toys R Us voucher, a certificate commending their efforts and a TRUper badge and cap.
For Grade 2 learner, Luca Hamlet of Rivonia Primary, in Johannesburg, making a positive difference to someone’s life is his goal.
Described by his teacher Candice Martin as a ‘true inspiration to others’, Hamlet has been doing chores and jobs around the house to earn pocket money to put into his yellow ARK boat.
“We hope this will encourage other children to go that extra mile,” said Martin.
Sharon Kapasa in Grade 1 of Buccleuch Primary was nominated as the August TRUper by her teacher, Jade McCrindle, who described her as a model learner deserving of the reward.
“She is a diligent learner who always presents beautiful work and excels in all of her subjects. Not only is she any teacher’s dream student, but she is also an incredibly kind and considerate child who is always willing to help her fellow learners. She is one of the first learners to offer to help me no matter how menial the task and will always do it with a smile,” said McCrindle.
In addition, Kapasa upholds school rules and expectations at all times and displays impeccable manners.
Toys R Us and Babies R Us SA marketing manager, Nicole Jansen van Vuuren said they were thrilled that the campaign was so well received at schools adding that the rewards were a way of saying ‘well done’.
“It is extremely pleasing to hear of all these wonderful efforts made by junior school pupils to be nominated as TRUper ambassadors for the month of August.
“We are thrilled to encourage more of this. Praise helps children feel good about themselves, which boosts self-esteem and confidence. We hope to continue encouraging young kids to always be good and do good.”
Has your child been nominated to be a Truper? Share your stories with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
