Teaching children new skills 

Sr Roxanne Constance OP manages the Plainview Children’s Home, Arima. Plainview is a branch of the St Dominic’s Children’s Home, which is run by the Dominican Sisters. The  Home is celebrating its 150th anniversary.

The coronavirus pandemic has given Sr Roxanne the opportunity to be more available to her children. She spends time teaching her charges about the coronavirus and the consequences of being irresponsible if the health protocols are not followed.

She has also taken this time to teach them more about the lives of various saints. They have more time to pray, reflect and participate in spiritual reading. “Therefore, it is a time of getting closer to God and nourishing one’s faith,” she said. For example, the children spend time acting out different parts of the gospel.

During the holidays, the Sisters implemented in-house camp activities for the children to make use of their creativity and talents. The children are given the chance to take part in cooking classes, art, craft, and sessions to learn more about morals and values.

She described the children as being resilient since they have learnt to adapt during the pandemic. According to Sr Roxanne, “They have learnt new skills, for example, self-preservation, self-control, tolerance, a greater dependence on God and especially putting others first.”

Sister mentioned that it is important for all to encourage children to pray, meditate and exercise. In addition, under supervision, children should be given the chance to use the internet to learn about the ways in which they can improve their skills and talents. Children should also learn how to empathise with others.

As a religious Sister, she expressed that the most challenging aspect of the pandemic was her inability to attend daily Mass. Also, it is a bit difficult when it comes to being extra-cautious with older Sisters who may have comorbidities. In addition, she must be cautious with children who are not vaccinated.

On the other hand, Sr Roxanne believes that the pandemic has given people an opportunity to spend more family time together. They now have time to pray, play together,  discover/rediscover other relatives and learn more about themselves.

Sr Roxanne’s message of hope to those who have lost a loved one either due to the coronavirus or otherwise, “Those who have lost loved ones or loved ones who knew God need not worry because they have returned to God. Therefore, refocus with God’s strength and mercy on your life which will one day end.”