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Hi again <3
When we last shared an update in July, our new Kids Club venue was just beginning to take shape — a simple open-air sala surrounded by trees, built from hope and community support. Today, it has grown into a lively, colorful learning space filled with laughter, lessons, and love.
Children arrive each morning excited to learn under the shade of trees, surrounded by nature’s calm. Our open classroom is decorated with recycled art, storybooks, and handmade learning materials. Outside, there’s plenty of space to play and move freely — something especially important for our students with sensory needs. It’s far from fancy, but it’s full of joy.
This quarter, we have focused on rebuilding rhythm and structure for our students with special needs. Many of these children were once seen roaming the streets of Burgos with nowhere safe to go. Since 2022, Kids Club has become their home for learning, connection, and care. Seeing them arrive each day with confidence — and even helping one another — reminds us how far we’ve come.
To give a glimpse of what daily life looks like now, we’re sharing the voice of Beng, our youth leader who teaches one-on-one and small group sessions with our students. Her reflection below shows the patience, creativity, and compassion behind every activity.
Youth Leader Reflection — by Beng
Over the past months, I have learned that every child has their own way and timing in learning. When I introduce something new — like a letter, a word, or even how to count money — it usually takes about one month of repeating and practicing before they truly understand it. It’s a slower process than in public school, but it’s also very rewarding. Seeing their small progress makes me very happy, because I know they are learning in their own beautiful way.
One of my proudest moments was when the children finally learned to write their names. Before, many of them didn’t recognize the ABCs. But because we teach every day and never give up, they can now write their names by themselves. Moments like this make me feel proud and thankful for what we do at Kids Club.
The children enjoy learning most when we make it fun. I like to use educational toys and crafts so they don’t get bored. These activities help develop their motor and sensory skills while they learn new things. Sometimes we play store — using coins and bills — so they can practice counting and understand simple financial lessons. It’s learning through play, and they love it.
Of course, there are also challenges. Sometimes a child has a tantrum or doesn’t want to cooperate. I never shout or get angry. I just wait, stay calm, and talk to them gently. When they are ready, I ask, “Are you okay now?” and give them a hug. I’ve learned that patience and kindness help them feel safe and loved, which is more important than finishing the lesson fast.
My hope for the coming months is that the children will continue learning and gain more understanding in every session. I also hope more volunteers can visit us again, because the kids are always so happy when they meet new people. They love to mingle and feel love not only from their teachers and families, but also from others in the community. It makes them feel proud, special, and connected.
Why It Matters
Every day, we see the difference this project makes. Children who once had no place to belong now have a safe, loving environment to grow — supported by youth leaders like Beng and by generous donors like you.
Because of your donations, children like Loloy, Riza, and Zian are no longer left behind. They spend their days reading, painting, counting coins, and learning life skills that will help them thrive.
We are completely dependent on your continued support to keep this project running. From all of us at Kids Club and Nature Kids of Siargao — thank you for changing the lives of these incredible children and giving them a place to learn, love, and belong.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Sanne
Founder, Nature Kids of Siargao
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