By Chonita Pablo (Social Programs Coordinator) | Translated by Joanna Smith
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic that is affecting the globe, the Guatemalan government has put precautions in place to limit the spread of disease. This has obviously affected our work at Cojolya and Mano a Mano por el Desarollo. Schools have been canceled for our students and we are doing our best to work from home. There are also daily curfews that limit the hours people are outside their homes. Our daily rhythms have changed and we are doing our best to keep up with community efforts, and above all, the students that we help through our Mano a Mano program.
So what are we doing? We are encouraging our students to continue learning from home during these uncertain times. Since none of our students have access to the internet and computers at home, online learning is not a possibility. Instead, we have given students reading comprehension exercises to practice from home. Without the support of our program, many students wouldn’t have a lot to do at home right now. By providing homework, we are seeking a way of continuing our work with them so that they can continue their learning. We don’t want our students falling behind in their studies! This also serves to take care of their mental health and routine in the face of changes caused by this disease.
Our students are happy and motivated with these at-home activities. They are having to do one reading per day, often doing it together with their family. Two of our students, brothers Misael and Oliver, are practicing their reading together and having fun with the activities. Oliver has had a little trouble managing fluent reading, and for this reason, this activity has been especially helpful in making sure he continues to improve and learn.
Though these times have brought unexpected restrictions, it has also resulted in unexpected solutions to problems. With many students out of school, we are hoping to continue these homework exercises so students do not fall behind in their education.
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