Working at LIV has been a divine blessing, surpassing any words I could muster. How can one not overflow with happiness when surrounded by the pure love and innocence of a child?
A child brimming with laughter, radiating smiles, and embraced wholeheartedly by God –engaging in one-on-one play therapy with these remarkable LIV children is nothing short of breathtaking.
My name is Bailey Allan, a Psychology master’s student propelled by an unyielding passion to uplift those in our community who are marked with poverty and trauma. While pursuing my master’s degree at St Andrews University last year in Scotland, I felt a deep desire to serve the precious children back home in South Africa.
In my role at LIV Cape Town, I have the privilege of meeting individually with children whom teachers have identified as needing extra support. Engaging in play therapy, particularly through the use of sand therapy, provides these children a means to express their emotions without the need for words. This approach is both gentle and powerful, allowing children to communicate their feelings in a safe and creative environment.
Beyond individual therapy, I address important themes with classes, such as the dangers of strangers and the vital steps children should take to identify themselves if they ever get lost. These discussions are crucial in empowering children with knowledge and strategies for their safety and well-being.
Recognising the importance of holistic support, I am also initiating a connect group for staff members. This group serves as a space where we can deepen our understanding of Jesus together and provide mutual support through life’s challenges. I firmly believe in the strength of community, where we can share in each other’s sorrows and joys. This collective journey allows us to offer compassion and solidarity, fostering a nurturing and resilient community in a broken society.
At LIV Cape Town, a range of issues come to light as we work with each unique child. Each child brings their own unique history and circumstances, making my work diverse and deeply personal. Since beginning at LIV, I have noticed emotional regulation to be a common issue, often manifesting as anger, withdrawal, or anxiety among children. These mental health struggles have been linked to school dropouts, difficulties in peer relationships, and challenges in meeting healthcare needs and transitioning to adulthood. To address these issues, I tailor my sessions to each child’s unique identity. For anxiety, we use play therapy to help children express their feelings. Anger is managed through emotional games that teach healthy coping mechanisms. For those struggling academically, We sit one-on-one to boost their confidence. We’ve seen remarkable progress: fewer anger outbursts, healthier play, and increased classroom participation. Our mission at LIV is to nurture a generation of educated, happy, and empowered children, ensuring they feel loved and supported.
Together, we hope to create a brighter future filled with love and opportunity.
