Respite Play & Learn: A little respite goes a long way

Siyakwazi is all about inclusion. It is our purpose. We aim to support every child in reaching their full potential by advocating the rights of children with disabilities and removing barriers to learning. But, what can be done when the current education system in South Africa falls short?

We find our own way!

Siyakwazi’s Respite Play & Learn started in March 2023 after feedback from our guardian support groups showed just how tired guardians in our community are, especially those with older children. Burnout is so common when caring for a child with a disability and where there is little in the way of societal support – it is almost unavoidable. 

Meeting a need 

Guardians are at risk of burnout and fatigue. For children with severe to profound disabilities, where school is unfortunately not an option, we support guardians by offering regular respite. Our team combines activities into a holistic plan tailored for each child and their family, depending on individual needs and circumstances. In this way, our Respite Play & Learn is an intervention designed to support both guardians and older children with disabilities.

Respite Play & Learn: How it works

We started with 10 children, once-a-month, and now as funding and capacity has increased Siyakwazi’s Respite Play & Learn now hosts 15 children twice-a-month at the Siyakwazi Resource Centre in KwaNzimakwe. Whilst guardians are welcome to attend, many are encouraged to take a break from their role as primary caregiver for the morning knowing that their children are well looked after and cared for. 

These mornings provide the only group learning environment many of these children may ever access, with the added benefit of following a tailored development plan which includes therapy input from a specialist. The sessions include indoor and outdoor play, cooked meals and transport to and from the centre, as well as assistive devices to support correct positioning.

How we use assistive devices

Correct positioning is so important for children with disabilities, especially those with limited independent mobility. Equipment for physical positioning helps people with disabilities maintain a stable, symmetrical posture when lying, sitting or standing. When that’s taken care of, and with appropriate stimulation, a child with disabilities can more readily participate, play and practise many skills. 

Timion is our wonderful resource partner, responsible for much of the equipment you see at our centre and in the homes of children we support. These tailormade seating devices, standing frames, benches and tables are a vital part of Respite Play & Learn. 

Partner with us

Siyakwazi relies on donor commitment to offer consistent and high-quality care for children with disabilities. The monthly cost per child to attend Respite Play & Learn is R1,550. 

If you can assist us in reaching our funding goals for Respite Play & Learn this year, please get in touch – you can help us make a difference.