Cha Chani Classroom
Phew, so that's the background on TNT (if you missed the TNT background, go back to the Peru drop down menu and click on TNT), now, what exactly do I do? Well, believe it or not, I'm teaching. I would have never thought in a million years I could teach little one's, especially not children who speak a different language, but I have found myself for the past few weeks standing in front of 25 pairs of eager eyes, teaching what could be their ticket out of poverty...English. English is such a commodity in Peru, as any person with even a basic knowledge, is immediately placed above the rest.
Myself, and a few other teachers, spent the first few days cleaning and painting what could only be described as a stone box, transforming it into a classroom. No larger then a small bedroom, it can barely be classified as a building. 4 stone walls, a dirt floor and a battered tin roof pretty much sums her up. Although not the most aesthetically appealing on the outside, one just has to step inside to discover her true beauty. Painting a gigantic mural of the world on the back wall and decorating the others with bright posters and children's artwork, it has become their safe haven.
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Each child comes to class with very different abilities. Some of the older children already able to count to ten in English, while others struggle to write their own names in espanol. Even the smallest steps, seem like leaps and bounds with these children. I will never be able to describe the pride and happiness felt, when a child asks for the "green" crayon, instead of the "verde" crayon. Or, when they correctly pronounce simple phrases, like, "Hello", "How are you". I'll never get sick of hearing, "Senorita, Senorita", as they practically jump out of their chairs to answer my questions.
I have probably learned more Spanish from them in a few weeks, then in all my Spanish classes combined. They know mi espanol es muy terrible, but are extremely patient and helpful. The older children, like Elizabeth and Estefany, even correct my grammar when I'm wrong. Of course, they have to laugh at me first =) Or, when Wilma or Maria ask for the, "borrador", I make a much stronger mental connection with its English meaning, then any book could ever teach me. And yet still, some of my favorite learning occurs on la cancha (the playground) as Roberto y Fernando yell futbol commands. My understanding and ability to respond could be the difference between winning or losing the game. And heaven forbid they lose, since futbol (or soccer) runs through their veins thicker then blood.
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The classroom has also given me a glimpse into what true happiness can be. Most of these children have nothing, many suffering from malnutrition and other various illnesses, yet find happiness in life's simple pleasures. For instance, playing with the classroom pelota (ball) because they cannot afford one of their own. Or, savoring the sweet taste of the fruits we bring for snack time, followed up by the refreshing coolness of clean bottled water on their tongues. They have never experienced the luxuries of video games or television, but you know, I think they're better for it. If only we could all find pleasure in these simple things.©
Please check out my final blog on TNT, "Adios Chachani"