Children wrap up month-long learning activities in fine style

By Anesta Henry

Students of St Stephen’s Nursery school ended their African Awareness Month celebrations in fine style on Tuesday.

The students traded their pens and papers briefly to model African attire, and tye-dyed t-shirts which they created themselves with the assistance of their art teacher.

The students and their teachers were also treated to a cooking demonstration by Tanzania-born Nyamangu Lupembe who prepared her country’s national dish Ugali which is made from white cornmeal.

The eager student body was proud to show off art and craft inspired by the customs and styles of various countries across the African continent and were even more eager to sing African-inspired songs and dance.

Principal Shelly Leacock, explained to Barbados TODAY that throughout February, each class explored an African country inclass as teachers adjusted the curriculum to the special activity.

She said the young charges being taught lessons about their African heritage is a significant aspect of the learning experience.

“It is important that the lessons are hands-on because while you may watch something on television, actually being a part of the experience is more meaningful and impactful and it lasts longer in the memory because you are actually absorbing it. We have a lot of hands-on experiences here,” she said.

The principal noted that annually the students at the Black Rock, St Michael institution with its roll of 146, are always eager to participate in the African Awareness Month’s activities.

This year, she said, the students’ response to the month-long events was no different. They willingly got involved in all aspects, putting their hands to work with even the dyeing of the shirts.

“They were very eager to put on the dye and then they were all excited to see the finished product. So wherever possible we allow them to be a part of the experience. We don’t just talk to them, we ensure that they participate because learning is more meaningful when the students engage in activities.

“We are aware that they are young and we try interesting ways to capture their attention which makes receiving the information more appealing,” she said.

Leacock added that on February 17 teachers, staff and parents took the students to Holetown Festival to give them an opportunity to see and touch African-influenced craft produced locally.

“We were also invited to go up to the University of the West Indies to be a part of their African Awareness celebrations and the students did the African dances and songs.

“To make this all possible, we had a committee of teaching and non-teaching staff who all pitched in to make the month of activities possible,” she said.

anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb