World Vision presents the success of the psychomotor program in Umvoti at the OVC conference in Durban

The psychomotor program has particular relevance with regards to child well-being, as it promotes independence, protection, responsibility, self-discipline, self-esteem and respect. It helps the child develop harmoniously in the society. In her presentation World Vision’s Umvoti Program Manager, Sayinile Mzolo said the organisation works with teachers to create both a comfortable and safe play environment for the little ones. World Vision operates in a rural area where some cultural practices are not favorable to a child. Children are not listened to and are rarely involved in decision making which limits them in sharing their ideas and expressing themselves on any thing that concerns them and their general wellbeing. “Psychomotor has taught them to stand up for their rights, negotiate and resolve conflicts amongst themselves as children without involving an adult person. It has also taught them to love and respect themselves, “ said Umvoti ADP Manager, Sayinile Mzolo.Mzolo added that the ADP has heard cases of children who commit suicide and are hoping that children who have attended psychomotor will not have to hurt themselves and others as this has been instilled to them at an early age.

Based on the interdependence of physical, affective and social functions of the young child with its environment, the psychomotor method empower children whilst playing freely with specific equipment, in a non-violent and non-prescriptive environment. However, their freedom is conditional on a double rule “We do not hurt others, and, we do not hurt ourselves.” Recent research has enlightened the understanding of the fundamental role of emotions in the development of the brain of the human being. Intended for the children up to the age of six or seven, the psychomotor education takes full advantage of the ‘golden age’, when a child is known to be most receptive in terms of neurological, psychological and social development.

This new way of life for children has brought so much hope and inspiration in this rural community.