Learning and reliving my childhood with JustKHELo
Contributed by: Ritika Dua
Dated: 17th November, 2016
While preparing for my postgraduate examination, I wanted to contribute in the social sector. I got an opportunity to play an hour every weekend. I know what you are thinking right now. How could this be associated with social work? Yes it can be, and this is what JustKHELo by Project KHEL is all about.
During the course of my volunteering with Project KHEL, I got to interact with lot of kids. All of them came from different family backgrounds. They were kids of house-helpers, milkmen, balloon sellers, blacksmiths and many more from such socially and financially weaker sections of the society. The daily routine of these kids was to go to study in government schools, come back and help their parents at their work. However, unlike other children, they did not get the time to PLAY.
Playing, also proved scientifically, is one of the most significant elements in bringing about an all round development of children, both physically and mentally.
Slowly and gradually I understood the idea and value behind this initiative. We, as a society, are always focusing upon the education of children, but most of us are not taking responsibility for this aspect of development which is as crucial as the former.
On my first day, I was a bit perplexed about what I have to do. Reaching there, I got to know that enthusiasm and excitement are the only two things that you need here. It was long back when I used to play games, solve puzzles or even act in a skit. Imagine playing Dog and the Bone, Football and making friendship bands with a bunch of these little kids on the friendship day. They were a stress buster for me and also a way to relive my childhood. We don’t get such opportunities every time to play and also to learn along with it. The interaction with fellow volunteers and kids made me more confident and responsible. While we used to have a fun time with the children, we made it a point to inculcate moral and social values in the children. For instance, coming on time for the session and speaking gently and not using inappropriate language especially foul words and abuses. Thus a lot of focus was given on these ethical values besides making them play.
It was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I used to wait for every coming weekend to have fun with these kids. Thank you Project KHEL and keep up the good work.