Every year, National Children’s Day serves as a vital reminder of the rights, well-being, and urgent needs of children in South Africa. While childhood should be a time of growth, learning, and joy, many children face challenges such as poverty, lack of access to education, and inadequate healthcare. This year’s National Children’s Day highlights the need for collective action to ensure that every child in South Africa receives the protection, opportunities, and care they deserve. From advocating for better education and healthcare to supporting initiatives that uplift vulnerable children, we all have a role to play in creating a brighter future for our youngest generation.
This National Childrens Day 2024, we are faced with a significant challenge for our nation’s most vulnerable. South Africa’s latest Child Gauge report from the University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute has raised serious concerns over the state of early childhood care and education in the country. *
With chronic underfunding, rising poverty, and significant gaps in health and learning services, the well-being of the nation’s youngest is at risk. The findings reveal that nearly one in five infants is not fully immunised by their first birthday, one in six children in poverty is not receiving child support, and only two-thirds of children aged three to five are enrolled in early learning programmes. These shortfalls and, stagnant funding, and a growing child poverty rate hinder the foundation necessary for children’s future health and success.
Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools, shares practical advice for parents and teachers looking to support young children amid these ongoing challenges. “While we must address these systemic issues at a national level, parents, caregivers, and educators can also play a direct role in helping children feel secure, supported, and ready to learn, even in these difficult times,” says Assis.
At home, Assis advises parents to create consistent routines for young children to foster a sense of stability and security. “Routines help children feel in control of their environment, which reduces anxiety,” she explains. “Simple daily rituals, such as shared mealtimes, regular reading sessions, or a bedtime routine, provide essential structure and offer a reliable space for children to connect emotionally with family members.”
Assis suggests turning everyday tasks into educational moments for parents facing financial constraints. “Cooking together, sorting items by colour or size, or even gardening can be rich learning experiences. These activities build confidence, creativity, and basic skills that support early cognitive development.”
In the classroom, teachers can create safe and inclusive environments, adapting learning activities to address diverse needs and developmental levels. “When classrooms become communities of respect and cooperation, young children feel more confident to engage and explore,” Assis notes. She encourages educators to incorporate play-based learning that encourages problem-solving and social interaction, providing children with a stable, nurturing foundation.
Furthermore, Assis highlights the importance of recognising emotional cues in children, especially those who may be struggling with poverty or family stress. “Teachers and parents can help children identify and express their feelings in a healthy way, guiding them to cope with emotions through supportive conversations and comforting activities, such as storytelling or drawing,” she says. “It’s crucial that children know their emotions are valued and that they have trusted adults to help them process those feelings.”
Addressing nutrition needs, Assis underscores that meal and snack times are learning opportunities that also foster a sense of community. “Food insecurity is a real issue, so any chance to share food and discuss healthy eating helps children learn about nourishment and connection,” she explains.
While South Africa faces complex challenges in early childhood care, Assis remains hopeful. “The support that parents and teachers provide at home and in the classroom can make a profound difference in helping children grow into resilient, well-rounded individuals,” she concludes. “Together, we can help our youngest generation thrive, one small act of support at a time.”
Reference:
* Slemming W, Biersteker L & Lake L. South African Child Gauge 2024. Cape Town: Children’s Institute, University of Cape Town. 2024.
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