Joining Hands Nepal
A Family Orphan HomeArchive for Nepal
Home Study
Now is the holiday break between school session in Nepal, a time when children and teachers have two to three weeks free to play, travel, and enjoy the spring weather. For us here at Joining Hands Nepal, while we allow the children to enjoy their free time, we also want to instill a good work ethic and a strong focus on learning English. Accordingly, last night we began a family English class after dinner to accustom the children to speaking English not only in school or with foreign guests, but also with each other. We will make a habit of setting aside a certain period time each day where everyone in the house should speak English rather than Nepali, whether there is a volunteer staying in the house or not. These family study sessions will solidify the practice of speaking English in to the children so it becomes second nature, and it will serve the additional function of bringing the whole Joining Hands family closer together with a common goal. Last night we began by practicing the days of the week and the months of the year through a question and answer format. It was a little awkward and difficult for the children at first, but by the end a new tradition had been started, and each day will bring more ease and comfort in the practice.
Joining Hands Family
Here is the first Joining Hands Nepal family portrait at Indeshwor Temple in Panauti. In front is Himal, director of JHN. Seated on each side of Himal are his two nieces, Chhiring and Roshani. And in the back row are our 3 children, from left to right, Lhasang, Balaram, and Padma.
Health is Happiness
Last night, while getting the children settled into their rooms and cooking dinner as a family in the kitchen, we gave them their first lesson in health and hygiene. First we had the children all wash their hands, faces, and hair thoroughly, being sure to stress the imporance of daily hygiene in the process. Next, we discovered that none of the children regularly brushed their teeth, which is unsurprising considering they come with nothing other than clothes on their backs. So we bought them each a toothbrush and toothpaste today so we can introduce them to the habit of daily brushing. Finally, we went to the market and bought them each a new outfit and sandals so that they have at least a pair of shirts and pants each to rotate, allowing more regular washing of their clothes when dirty. It is such a small and simple lesson, but one that is important to both long-term health and happiness. Now we must merely follow up day by day until it sinks in and they are doing it by themselves.
Joining Hands Nepal 