Provide Help for Children and Teenagers in Mexico

According to UNICEF, early childhood offers a critical window of opportunity to shape the trajectory of a child's holistic development and build a solid foundation for their future. For children to reach their full potential, as is their human right, they need good nutrition, protection from harm, and a sense of security in their social circles. Additionally, they need opportunities for early learning and responsive care, as well as the ability to talk, sing, and play with their parents, caregivers, and other children their age.

However, not all children have this opportunity. Those living in poverty are less likely to access school and often drop out earlier. According to Coneval, in 2020, three out of ten children in Nuevo León aged 0 to 5 lived in poverty and inequality. By 2022, this figure increased by 5.5%, equivalent to 36,426 more children; moreover, many suffer neglect from their parents and caregivers.

The lack of quality early education limits children's future, denying them the opportunity to reach their full potential. It also affects the future of countries by depriving them of the human capital necessary to reduce inequalities and promote peaceful and prosperous societies.

For this reason, the Club de Niños y Niñas de Nuevo León created the "Mi Primer Club" program at the San Pedro branch. Its objective is to provide comprehensive education during this crucial stage of life, essential for developing skills and preparing for future stages, specifically primary education, and for the rest of their lives.

The results of the 2023-2024 operational cycle are as follows: 200 children aged 4 and 5 from the El Obispo and Villas del Obispo neighborhoods enrolled and participated in the program with the following activities:

• Play Workshop: Children actively participate in a variety of games and playful activities. These activities develop their ability to coordinate hand, eye, and body movements, strengthening their visomotor coordination.
• Sports Workshop: Focuses on sports activities suitable for children under 6, emphasizing the development of fundamental motor skills such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching. Through specific games and exercises, precision, balance, and coordination are developed, strengthening fine motor skills.
• Origami Practice: Folding paper to create different shapes and figures stimulates children's creativity and imagination, allowing them to explore and create with their own hands. This activity requires concentration and perseverance, as it involves following detailed instructions and completing each step with precision.

Parental involvement is key to the success of the program. Therefore, a workshop for parents and caregivers is provided. Studies indicate that active parenting brings multiple benefits to children, helping them develop healthier and better. Committed and affectionate parents enhance children's self-esteem, social skills, academic performance, and psychological well-being.

In this operational cycle, 100 parents enrolled in the "School for Parents in Early Childhood" program. This workshop provides support and training, highlighting the importance of family, school, and club participation in children's development. It addresses relevant topics affecting children's daily lives, such as parenting, effective communication, conflict resolution, fostering positive values, and children's and adolescents' rights.

In Nuevo León, innovation remains a fundamental pillar for economic and social development, standing out as the leading entity in innovative sectors, followed by Jalisco and Mexico City, according to the 2023 State Competitiveness Index. However, access to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) educational programs continues to be limited for children in poverty in Nuevo León, Mexico, due to various socio-economic barriers. Despite efforts to promote STEAM education in the state, the lack of resources, adequate infrastructure, and equitable opportunities hinder the participation of children and adolescents from low-income backgrounds in these programs.

To address this inequality, we've incorporated the STEAM methodology into the Club's intervention model, creating a rich and interconnected learning environment. Your support is the engine driving this initiative, preparing children and teenagers to tackle future challenges and seize opportunities, while fostering their creativity, critical thinking, and holistic development.

Technological skills

76% of 6 and 7-year-old girls and boys master the use of the computer and the Paint program.

Digital tools

70% of girls, boys, and adolescents aged 8 to 16 years old use word processing software correctly, improving their academic presentations.

Video game programming

30 girls, boys and adolescents participated in the Video Game Programming Workshop, this program is carried out in alliance with the Virtual Learning Center of the Tecnológico de Monterrey.

STEAM with LEGOs

We provide innovative learning experiences using LEGO pieces to teach mathematical concepts such as geometry, fractions, proportions, and patterns. 80% of the girls and boys who participated increased their math skills

Teaching STEAM through Art

100% of girls aged 6 to 10 know how to work with modeling clay and create sculptures, promoting interest in science through exploration, experimentation, imagination, and creativity.

Links:

• website

• Results infographic (PDF)