Nika from Georgia: On top of my lack of experience working with children, the fact that these kids would not understand the language I spoke terrified me. I was afraid that I would not be able to connect with them on a personal level. This fear prevented me from fully enjoying the first days of the camp. But as time went, I discovered something. Language was the least important factor while communicating with children. Children I met in the camps were so open-minded and accepting that I realized I had a lot to learn from them. They did not care that much for our differences. I realized that my willingness to open up to them was enough to gain their trust and build the relationships. Even though I lacked the experience, the relationships that I developed with them gave me enough confidence to enjoy the camp experience as much as they did. I think the fact that I tried to become one of them during our activities, also made them more comfortable to open up and show their best. Of course, there were some ups and downs, but in the end, we were all satisfied. They learned a lot. But I think I learned much more. Maria from Greece: The children's camps are kinda familiar to me. Because of that I was less stressed the first days and tried to enjoy the activities with the children. Under no circumstances should someone consider the language barrier as an obstacle. In both camps that I joined, there were children speaking fluent english (2-3 minimum). In combination with the basic vocabulary in italian that I learned last month, the non verbal communication but also the interest of children to teach me basic words in italian when I was trying to explain something, the communication with them was easy and funny at the same time. The activities were planned in advance by our group. The experience of the local volunteers, but mainly the effort of them to explain to us new activities and help us participate or coordinate an activity was invaluable. Sometimes it was hard to join an activity (especially the first 1-2 days) but the most important thing was to be there for the kids in their activities, free time, normal mini crisis or to be there for the rest of the group while preparing their own activities. Michal from Poland: In Poland, we have a very popular singer Majka Jeżowska, who sang the song "All our children are.” The message of this song is very banal: Regardless of the origin, every child is the same; requires the same needs, no matter if you speak Italian, Polish or English. The child needs attention, care and nourishment. Children want to feel safe and loved. Although the camp lasted only a week, these needs were evident, and we as a group of caregivers had to satisfy them. By the way, when you notice that the child starts to like you, begins to trust you, to feel comfortable in your company, so as not to spoil it, you have to really work hard, because building a bond is extremely difficult. Thus, it was not the simplest experience, but the result was rewarding. And of course, it was worth it.
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