Laying the Groundwork: Sinethemba’s Early Learning Journey

*Sinethemba is just 21 months old, but already, she’s showing signs of becoming a confident and capable little girl. Her real name means “bright light,” and that’s exactly how her mother, Ntombikayise, describes her – always smiling, full of energy, and eager to explore.

At home, Sinethemba lives with her mom, her 8-year-old sibling, and her aunt, a Grade R teacher at a local school. Ntombikayise is raising her children on her own and, like many parents in the area, navigates financial challenges on a daily basis. But what stands out is the consistent love and care she provides for her children, no matter the circumstances.

Through Siyakwazi’s home-based Early Learning Programme, Ntombikayise found support that not only benefited her daughter but also gave her the tools and confidence to be an active partner in her child’s learning. The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are critical for brain development, and having a nurturing, engaged caregiver during this time lays the foundation for long-term growth.

The programme focused on everyday learning through play, something Sinethemba responded to with enthusiasm. She especially enjoyed outdoor activities – digging in the sand, playing with water, and using the shape sorter from Siyakwazi (not in the traditional way, though; she preferred using the bucket to scoop sand and build her own creations). She also loved playing LEGO with her mom, learning colours and practicing fine motor skills.

Regular home visits from Msizi, a Siyakwazi fieldworker (or Siyasiza), made this learning possible. He brought books and toys, shared ideas for play, and helped track Sinethemba’s progress in meeting her milestones. “We liked reading the Book Dash stories together and looking at the pictures,” says Ntombikayise. “Even now that the programme is finished, I still read to her every night.”

When an audio screening revealed an ear infection, Siyakwazi provided a referral to Murchison Hospital. After some delays, Sinethemba received the care she needed. Since treatment, her hearing has improved, and she’s started to show more interest in songs, imitating rhymes from TV shows and pointing to objects she recognises. Her speech is still developing, but she’s making progress.

Another important aspect of the programme was nutrition. With regular access to eggs and porridge, Sinethemba gained weight and became more resilient. “Before, she didn’t like eggs,” Ntombikayise explains. “But now she eats them, and when she gets sick, she recovers quickly – maybe just a day or two.”

For Ntombikayise, the parent sessions were a highlight. Staying at home most of the time can be isolating, so having a reason to get up, go out, and connect with other parents was meaningful. It was also a space where she could learn new ways to support her daughter. “Sinethemba enjoyed being with other babies, and I liked meeting new people too.”

There are still challenges – like the difficulty in finding a nearby crèche – but Ntombikayise remains hopeful. She’s clear about the kind of parent she wants to be, and the kind of future she wants for her children: one where they keep learning, stay on the right path, and reach their full potential.

“I just want her to make good choices,” she says. “There are a lot of children who go the wrong way, especially when they’re teenagers. I want better for her.”

Sinethemba’s first two years have been filled with play, learning, care, and connection. Thanks to her mom’s consistency and involvement – and steady support from Siyakwazi through home visits, referrals, support groups, and resources – she’s had the best possible start.

*Name changed for privacy