The World Health Organization defines Life Skills Education as “ the abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life”. Adolescence, a vital stage of growth and development, marks the period of transition from childhood to adulthood. Characterized by rapid physiological changes and psycho social maturation, these are truly the years of creativity, idealism, buoyancy and a spirit of adventure.

At the Miracle Foundation, we consider this phase in a child’s life as crucial. These years comprise of experimentation and risk-taking, of giving in to negative peer pressure, of taking uninformed decisions on crucial issues, especially relating to their bodies and their sexuality.

This month, we conducted a Life Skills Education session on Coping with emotions in Deepalaya Children’s Home. The participants were above the age of 13 and it was a mixed group of girls and boys. Our LSE trainer began the session with a mini interactive discussion on various emotions, their implication and sources etc. It was explained that coping with emotions means recognizing emotions within us and others and being aware of how emotions influence behavior. We should be able to respond to emotions appropriately. Intense emotions like anger or sadness can have negative effects on our health if we do not respond appropriately.

Children were given individual worksheets to begin with the first activity on ‘Alternatives to Anger’. After much discussion, the children agreed that anger was unhealthy for them and it was crucial to learn to control and express our anger in a constructive manner. The other activity on ‘Coping with loss was well appreciated by the children. The facilitator took them through real examples shared by the group itself. They learned about emotions which are associated with loss and the coping mechanism recommended for it. The trainer also shared with the kids simple suggestions to overcome depression and controlling anger.

The session concluded with the same energy and enthusiasm it began with. The kids as well as the caregivers sincerely appreciated the session. They promised that they would try to apply today’s lessons in their everyday life. It was touching to see that children felt comfortable opening their hearts out in front of the participating group. It seemed that there was so much enclosed in their little hearts and they were waiting to pour it out.These kids are at such a stage in life where their emotions and energy require a positive direction.

The Miracle Foundation understands the need of guidance and direction for the over-all development of these children. We make sure that all the children across our homes are supported to cruise through these turning point of their lives effortlessly.