Youth Play/Fun

The Importance of Play

Children are resilient and find ways to play without any provided toys or games but there are some things that even the most imaginative child can’t replace. We bring sports, art and music, along with general events where children get to sing, dance, eat and forget about the challenges that have brought them to the camp where they currently find themselves.

There are fewer metrics and tangible ways to track the impact of this part of our work but the excitement we see on the faces of children when we pull out art supplies, a soccer ball or musical instruments has underscored how important this part of our work is.

While we know that the skills training we provide is critical for children to become independent as young adults, we do what we can to ensure the joy of childhood is not taken from the children in Goma. Continue reading to learn some of the specifics of this part of our work.

Art

Art plays a crucial role in the early development of children, particularly during their formative years. Studies indicate that engaging in artistic activities enhances brain capacity during early childhood. Through art, children explore their senses in unstructured play, fostering the growth of cognitive, social-emotional, and multisensory skills. As children advance into elementary school and beyond, art remains essential, offering avenues for further brain development, skill mastery, boosted self-esteem, and continued creativity. This is not a structured program but we have “pop-up” art sessions at camps whenever we are on site and have a controlled environment. Our largest group was 400 children rotating to take turns drawing.

Music

In 2023, 35 youths actively participated in the music program, which was orchestrated by RYC in collaboration with other local organisations. The joint effort aimed to enhance the program and elevate the skills and theoretical knowledge of those with a fervor for creating music. Convening twice a week during the afternoons, the musicians dedicate their time to refining their proficiency in playing various instruments, including the piano, guitar, and wind instruments. Beyond individual skill development, they frequently collaborate with other musicians, forming larger bands that perform within the community and for special occasions such as Christmas. This collaborative musical endeavour not only contributes to the overall sense of community but also showcases the diverse talents of the participants on broader platforms.

Sports

Beyond its community-building aspect, sports play a pivotal role in offering a welcome respite from the daily routine for many individuals. The sporting activities not only serve as a source of motivation for the youth but also provide a platform for sharing positive life stories, contributing to the cultivation of a positive mindset among the participants

Continue reading our projects: Humanitarian Aid