I want to take a bit of time to talk about two (of many) great things about the kids at Urban Connection. As a preface, I'd like to say that these are some of the sweetest, kindest, and most caring kids I've met - they are protective not just of their younger siblings, but also of each other. There's a camarederie that's welcome to see. :)
Thing one: the older kids do a FANTASTIC job of interacting with my little five- and six-year olds. I have seen so many priceless hugs between petite five-year-olds and sweet 13-year-olds more than twice their size. The game "Birdie on a Perch" facilitates those positive interactions, but the older kids are also genuinely caring. They care about setting good examples for the younger kids, and it's wonderful to see how the younger kids look up to them. A special shoutout to Smiley - several weeks ago the boys were being taught a military march and call-and-response, and Smiley took the lead for the boys and showed them how it was done. I've never seen such great listening from boys of all ages, and Smiley had a great smile on his face the whole time. :)
Thing two: the kids love to help. All I have to do is walk toward the kitchen and three kids run up to me shouting "can we help please?" It's hard to turn down so many voluntary workers, but turn some down I must. However, they have plenty of opportunities to help throughout the day, and thankfully we always have willing helpers. The kids love having that opportunity to be involved and to help their leaders, who give so much to them. It's really great to see.
I'm blogging from Urban right now, but once I get home I'll add a picture that I think epitomizes this relationship - Karla and Esmeralda working together to sweep up a pile of dirt. :)
Cheers!
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