Poverty, mental illness, drug and alcohol abuse all have a hand in creating an environment that replicates itself over and over in each successive generation. All are prevalent in Lavender Hill and other marginalised areas in South Africa. Children living with trauma are not able to learn optimally, and require informed support to enable them to manage their response and behaviour. International research shows that the first six years of a child’s life are critical in brain development.
Providing quality early childhood development, a safe space, the right kind of stimulation, and support from a caring adult, can change a child’s trajectory. It can provide positive experiences and change belief systems. It can help children to learn better. It can change attitudes and behaviour. It can open up opportunities for a better future.