Going back to school is an exciting moment in any child’s life— as well as a time of anxiety, and anticipation. For many children in Asia, this experience is made possible thanks to generous donors who help provide the resources and support needed for their education. If you’re one of the many donors supporting children’s education through organisations like Asian Aid, you may wonder how your child feels and how our staff and their teachers help them cope at each crucial phase.
Here are 10 practical things we do to ensure the kids thrive as they embark and continue on their educational journey.
- We Encourage Consistent Communication
We encourage– and provide time and space – for our teachers to share regular words of support to build a child’s confidence as they step into the school year. They talk about their day and provide emotional encouragement.
How: They ask questions about their day-to-day activities, interests, or challenges, showing genuine curiosity about their experiences.
- We Foster a Growth Mindset
For many children in Asia, the transition to school can be daunting. Encouraging a growth mindset—that their abilities can improve through effort and perseverance—can be incredibly empowering. Mentors and teachers share stories of overcoming challenges, and let them know that mistakes are part of the learning process.
How: Mentors and teachers share a story from their own life where they learned from a mistake or struggled but kept going.
- We Are Sensitive to Cultural Differences
Starting school is a unique experience in different cultural contexts. Understanding the local customs, traditions, and schooling systems help us support the children better. For instance, in some parts of Asia, students may face more pressure to perform academically than others, or there may be specific rituals around the start of school.
How: We learn a bit about the education system and cultural norms in the villages where our sponsored children live, and use this knowledge to offer relevant advice or encouragement.
- We Celebrate Milestones Together
Whether it’s their birthday, first day of school, a great report card, or an achievement in sports or the arts, recognizing milestones can boost a child’s self-esteem.
How: We acknowledge these achievements and show that their efforts are seen and appreciated.
- We Provide Practical Tips for School Success
When sponsored children enter school for the first time or transition to a higher grade, offering helpful advice, such as time management, staying organized, or taking breaks during study sessions, have made a huge difference in their ability to succeed.
How: Simple tips like “always take time to review your notes after class” or “don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re stuck” can go a long way.
- We Instil the Value of Education
In many parts of Asia, education is a precious resource, and opportunities are sometimes limited. We remind children and, even more importantly, their families, of the long-term value of education—not only for their personal growth but for their ability to help their families and communities in the future.
How: We tell them about the broader impact of education and how it can be a key to creating change in their own life and society.
- We Are Patient with the Adjustment Period
Starting school can be overwhelming for young students, especially if they’ve had limited exposure to formal education or are returning after a gap. We understand that it may take time for them to adjust to the classroom environment and social interactions. It’s okay if they struggle at first.
How: We offer words of encouragement for when they feel unsure or overwhelmed and assure them that everything gets easier with time.
- We Encourage Extracurricular Activities
Education doesn’t stop in the classroom. Many children in our schools are also engaged in extracurricular activities like sports, arts, or music. These activities help children build important life skills such as teamwork, creativity, and discipline.
How: We ask about their interests beyond schoolwork and suggest ways they can engage in hobbies or activities they’re passionate about.
- We Understand the Importance of Support Systems
In most regions where we work, children rely heavily on family and community support to navigate their educational journey. While donors like you make a significant difference, the involvement of parents, teachers, and community leaders is just as crucial. We encourage our sponsored children to lean on their support system for help when needed.
How: We involve teachers, community leaders and parents in the educational journey of our sponsored children. This shows that their work is also valued.
- We Commit to the Long Run
Sponsoring children is not just a one-time commitment—it’s a partnership for the long term. We stay connected and involved through welfare checks, visits and create a safe learning space over the years that provide a sense of stability and continuity.
How: We train and encourage teachers, mentors and adults to maintain an ongoing relationship with the children so they can support their growth as they move through their education.
By staying engaged, showing empathy, and offering continuous support, we try to ensure that your sponsored child has the encouragement and resources they need to succeed. Education is a powerful tool for transforming lives—and with your help, these children can realise their full potential.
Thank you for being a part of their educational journey.
