In a time when you might expect them to be looking after their own needs, a group of teachers took the time to be trained to work in World Vision-sponsored Child Friendly Spaces (CFS). These programs help their students regain an important sense of normalcy amidst disaster recovery. World Vision correspondent Mindy Chee tells the story.

Instead of a relaxed and conducive environment, tension and nervousness filled the air inside Classroom One of the Yuanba District Ji Guan Kindergarten.

Sitting on the small green wooden tables and chairs, the faces of all 21 teachers are taut with worry. The district has felt, yet again, the aftermath of another tremor less than an hour ago. 

Their worries are not unfounded. Since the large-scale earthquake hit Sichuan on May 12, nearly 8,000 aftershocks have been reported all across the province.

Supporting Distressed Children
Despite the grim outlook, these teachers chose to brave the risks to attend the Child-Friendly Space (CFS) training conducted by World Vision. This training aids the teachers with the techniques and know-how to facilitate the running of a CFS and to identify and support children with post-disaster distress. 

“This training is really useful… It’s great to learn about children’s games from a fresh perspective and from a child’s viewpoint,” says Zhang Yan Mi, a kindergarten teacher with 10 years’ experience.

Earthquake Closes Schools
Recalling the fateful day when the quake struck, Zhang continues, “We were all in school and the children were having their afternoon nap. Together with another teacher, I simply grabbed a few children nearest me who were still sleeping and yelled for the rest to wake up and to follow me to the open assemble area.

“Many children didn’t know what was going on and there was lots of crying and confusion.”

Due to the earthquake, the government has declared an extended summer vacation for all children. Until then, the CFS is the only platform the teachers have to support their students before school reopens in August.

“The CFS is very well structured and will certainly bring lots of joy to the children. I’ll make sure that all the children will spread the word around so that more can benefit from it,” says Zhang.

What World Vision is Doing
The CFS is a safe and structured place where children can meet with other children to play, learn and take part in educational activities. Most importantly, it gives children a sense of safety, structure and continuity that provides support amidst overwhelming experiences.

World Vision has set up three CFSs in Sichuan Province. Besides distributing school tents to facilitate the setting up of temporary teaching sites, World Vision also plans to construct 50 schools and 15 school dormitories in the disaster areas to ensure a safe learning environment for 10,000 students.

World Vision will also sponsor schools to purchase 5,000 education supplies for 15,000 students.

The Canadian government is matching donation to earthquake relief and recovery in China, until June 23. To donate, click here.