A volunteer’s reflections - enhancing ECD with Right4Children

Volunteering in a new country is always a learning experience. For 𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗰𝗸-𝗧𝗿𝗲𝘇𝗼𝗻𝗮, an experienced educator from the UK with years of experience in children and youth’s education particularly in children with special needs, her two weeks with Right4Children in Pokhara, were truly transformative. During her stay with Right4Children she visited 12 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers and schools, Shirley observed both the strengths and challenges of early childhood education in the region.

Shirley observed that five out of six ECD centers had outdoor learning spaces that were underutilized due to safety concerns and staffing limitations. She recommended introducing outdoor sessions twice a day to encourage physical activity and foster creative learning. Her suggestion to involve community volunteers to assist teachers was both practical and empowering, ensuring children could play safely while teachers minimized risks.  

While the classrooms were vibrant and engaging, Shirley observed a lack of resources for child-led learning. Basic toys and materials were either in poor condition or insufficient, resulting in predominantly teacher-led activities. Shirley highlighted one ECD center in a school where the Right4Children’s Child-Friendly School (CFS) project is being implemented, describing it as a model of an enabling environment. This center showcases innovative training and the effective use of readily available materials to create engaging and resourceful spaces. She recommended that other ECD teachers visit this center to learn best practices and utilize free or natural materials to enhance learning.

Shirley identified a gap in support for children with additional needs and behavioral challenges. Overcrowded classrooms with children as young as 17 months made management difficult for teachers. She suggested creating separate classes for younger children and utilizing underused community halls as shared spaces to ease classroom pressure.  

Shirley during her visit to one of the ECD centers

“Behavioral concerns such as task avoidance, aggression, and classroom wandering were common,” writes Shirley in her report based on her observation and reflection. Shirley suggested strategies like visual timetables, timers, quiet areas, and explore boxes to help children self-regulate and feel supported. She emphasized the importance of involving children in planning daily activities.  

“Volunteers provide a fresh perspective and enhance our work. We are thankful for the time and dedication she invested during her stay with us,” shares Smritee Gurung, CFS project coordinator, who accompanied Shirley throughout her time with Right4Children.

As Shirley reflected on her time in Pokhara, she celebrated the resilience and dedication of the teachers and staff at Right4Children. “Her experience emphasized the crucial role that volunteers play in enhancing knowledge and improving the education sector in Nepal, especially in early childhood education,” says Kriti Shrestha, Acting CEO of Right4Children. 

“Shirley's suggestions are comprehensive and will serve as a valuable resource for the organization in shaping its future directions,” says Kriti. However, she noted some challenges that Right4Children faces as it operates in the early childhood education sector through two distinct projects: PRAYASS and CFS. The working methods of these projects are completely different.

The PRAYASS project operates in low-income communities in Pokhara, where the childhood centers function primarily as daycare facilities. These centers allow mothers to leave their children so they can engage in various livelihood activities. In contrast, CFS works directly with public schools in Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality, adhering to established early childhood development guidelines. 

“We will further explore this and seek Shirley's expert advice as she will be visiting us again in March 2025,” concludes Kriti.

On International Volunteer Day, we celebrate Shirley and all volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to making a difference in our communities. Happy International Volunteer Day!