By Elizabeth Sholtys | Director
As of June, playgroup is back in session!
After a short break in May, the AIC Education Program welcomed a new batch of 2 year olds to the playgroup a few weeks ago. The new class is comprised of 6 girls and 7 boys, and is led by Sweety didi, who enjoys the challenge of helping the children learn independence and social skills in a fun-filled environment. Last year, Sweety didi taught the nursery class at AIC's Pre-Primary School, so she has a strong sense of the skills needed by her playgroup students to successfully navigate the transition to nursery by the end of the year, and looks forward to helping them develop these skills.
Two of the boys in the class are children of former AIC students who are trying to pave the way for brighter futures for their children. Jai's mother, Archana, studied at AIC for five years before becoming a child bride. After fleeing her husband's violence and death threats, she is now raising Jai and his younger sister, Tani, on her own. This is unheard of in the extremely patriarchal Sikligar community, but Archana is determined to educate her children and keep them safe from abuse and violence. She loves knowing that Jai is making friends and learning songs and games every Tuesday during playgroup sessions, and she is also grateful for the nutritious meals that he eats after every class.
Krishna is the son of Anju, who rejoined 10th standard classes at AIC after having dropped out of primary school. Anju later went on to work as a caregiver in the Education Program for several years, but left to get married. Unfortunately, shortly after getting married, Anju's husband began beating and abusing her. After giving birth to her son, Anju left her husband and moved back in with her parents near the AIC Education Centre. Her primary focus now is educating her only child, and she has taken an important first step by enrolling him in the weekly playgroup at AIC.
Although their mothers' lives have been shaped by tragedy, violence, and abuse, Jai and Krishna represent hope for the future. We can't wait to watch them blossom this year at AIC!
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