Supporting Children Left Behind in China
China - Shijiazhuang, Hebei
22 August 2014
Children are left behind, but not forgotten
Supporting children when parents move to big Chinese cities
In China, more than 250 million parents leave their hometowns in inland provinces to more developed coastal cities in aspiration for a better living. As a result, over 61 million children are left behind in the rural areas, living on their own or under the care of relatives (mostly grandparents).
Creating colourful classrooms in Shijiazhuang, China
What was the challenge?
The long-term separation of children from their parents leaves them vulnerable to both physical and emotional problems. In addition to that, these children are often being educated in run-down school facilities.
How did we create a colourful space to help them study better?
Together with China Next Generation Education Foundation, Dulux (sister brand of Taubmans in Papua New Guinea) colour experts designed the classrooms for the kids at the Beiye Elementary School in Shijiazhuang, China.Their previously grey, old classrooms are now transformed with bright, vivid colours & patterns. Also, computers were installed for connecting the children with their far-away parents online. So far, more than 35 schools have been renewed across China with more to follow, and they have been warmly welcomed by the children & the local teachers.
“My students will love to spend time in such a colourful classroom”, said Su Mei, teacher at Beiye School.”