Ahuva Good Shepherd – Interim Placement & Assessment Centre (AGS-IPAC)

IPAC held a workshop with the residential children to raise their awareness about the International Day of the Girl Child. Through the aid of slides as well as enthusiastic discussion among the group, the children shared their insights, learnt about the rights of the girl child and understood more about how these rights are not respected in various parts of the world. It was clear that this was a topic the girls felt passionate about as many hands waved in the air during discussion time- all eager to share how they felt or ask questions to understand better.

During the second part of the presentation, the girls also learnt about cybersecurity and how to keep themselves safe online. After the presentation, the children gathered in a circle for a quiz. 3 questions were asked to the group about the sharing. For example: Name 2 ways you can keep safe online. The ones with the correct answers won little presents.

The second part of the workshop involved an esteem-building activity in which the girls first affirmed themselves, and then affirmed one another. The purpose of the activity was for each child to recognize and celebrate their dignity, that they each have value and worth. They first listed and shared with the group one thing about themselves that they were proud of. It was a wonderful sharing as the girls took turns to share the beautiful successes in their lives.

Next, each child and staff member were told to tape a piece of paper on each other’s back. In the span of 3 minutes, everyone went around the room to write one thing they admired about one another on their backs. It was adorable to watch as everyone formed a choo-choo-train of sharing affirmations! As the activity came to an end, everyone gathered again and chose one affirmation to read out loud, such as: “I am helpful and kind!”.

It was truly heartening to see the enthusiastic responses from the children during the workshop, and how they showed so much love and care for one another. The workshop concluded with many big smiles 😊

By: Ms Casmine Yeo

Assistant Residential Manager

Marymount Centre

Singapore