Jamahl: Most Likely to Take Centre Stage

When Jamahl first joined Graceland Preschool, the world outside his familiar circle felt frightening. After a traumatic hospital stay following an accidental poisoning, he had become fearful of unfamiliar adults. New faces could leave him anxious and unsettled, making it difficult for him to feel at ease.

His teachers knew that he needed more than encouragement. He needed time, patience and people he could learn to trust. They created a caring, predictable environment where he could settle in at his own pace, supported by familiar routines, positive relationships and Kinderkinetics activities. They never rushed him or expected too much too soon. Instead, they celebrated each small step, helping him discover that he could feel comfortable, join in and enjoy being part of his class.

Little by little, Jamahl began to blossom. The anxious little boy who once struggled around unfamiliar adults is now a happy, confident learner who smiles, laughs and takes part in classroom activities. And this month, he reached a milestone that once might have seemed a long way off. Jamahl stood alongside his classmates and performed at a church service in front of a large audience, smiling as he took his place.

For his teachers, seeing him up there was about so much more than a performance. It was a glimpse of just how far he had come, and a reminder of what can happen when a child is given the time, care and encouragement to grow in confidence.

“Seeing Jamahl confidently perform in church filled my heart with joy. It reminded me that patience, love, and consistency truly change lives.”
Elizabeth Solomons, Principal of Graceland Preschool