Little Steps, Big Changes: Sheraia’s (3) Journey from Toddler to Talker
A caregiver’s reflection on the impact of the early learning program in Suriname
From ‘Tantie (dutch meaning for aunt), Look at that mess!’ to ‘That’s Not Blue, its turquoise!’: the bright and vibrant 3-year-old Sheraia’s spirit cannot be missed at the daycare.
When Sheraia first started at the Kotomosi daycare, she was a quiet, observant child who stayed close to a few teachers she trusted. But within months, she blossomed into a lively, talkative little girl, full of questions, full of stories.
Now, her teachers say she’s one of the most observant in the group. She notices everything, from the missing puzzle piece to the tiniest difference in someone’s shirt color, and she doesn’t hesitate to speak up.
Whether she’s naming every color in the crayon box or correcting her big brother’s grammar at home, Sheraia’s spirit shines brightly. The daycare didn’t just teach her words, it gave her the confidence to use them.
“I’m not Sheraia’s mother. I’m her aunt. But in our home, we raise her together, my sister and I, under one roof with her older brother enjoying her daily as she brings all she learns home. Every day, I see the difference the Kotomisi daycare has made in her life.” her aunt says.
Sheraia started going to Kotomosi as she just turned two. She’s three now, and let me tell you, that little girl talks more than anyone else in the house. She sings her heart out, every song they’ve taught her, and don’t even try to say your colors wrong around her. Her teenage brother once pointed to something and said “green,” and Sheraia, arms crossed, said, “No, that’s not just green it’s light green!” But if she makes a mistake? Oh, no one is allowed to say a word! Her aunt expressively noted while giggling. Sheraia seems to have a bright eye for colors and loves to draw and paint. Her aunt says she is already planned to go to the primary school for young talent in Suriname, to study arts and music.
Every morning, before the sun is even up, she’s standing by her bag, ready to go. “Tantie, are we going to daycare now?” she asks with those big, eager eyes. It’s not just a place she goes to for daycare; it’s a place she has come to love.
“As a secondary school teacher myself, I know how important it is for learning to start early. But for a long time, our daycares weren’t like that. I remember when daycare meant children just lying around, eating, sitting, sometimes being yelled at by impatient teachers. There was no stimulation, no learning through play. It was heartbreaking to see.” the aunt highlighted.
“But now? Now Sheraia comes home and tells us about the fruits she learned that day. Or how they washed clothes with little buckets. She’s always busy at home, playing pretend school, making up songs, or teaching her brother the “right way” to color.”
I’m so grateful that she got to start her early learning journey at a time when the ‘Play, Discover & Learn’ program is transforming our daycares. It’s not just about ABCs, it’s about building confidence, curiosity, and joy in learning.
My sister, Sheraia’s mother, always says, “She’s not the same child she was a year ago.” She’s brighter, more expressive, and even more independent.” We often laugh at the way she tries to run the household now, giving instructions like her daycare teachers.
The early learning program implemented by UNICEF in partnership with Foundation SAGA, and the support from Tubacex, may witness something beautiful evolving in the future of Suriname’s youngest. The training provided to daycare workers is yielding meaningful results, with positive impacts extending beyond the classroom into children’s homes. The program is equipping young learners with the foundational skills, confidence, and readiness they need to thrive in primary school and beyond.
“So yes, I’m her aunt. But watching Sheraia thrive through this fun, engaging and playful method of learning, I feel like a proud parent too.” Sheraia’s aunt noted.
Boilerplate
By the time children turn three, their brains are developing faster than at any other point in life. In Suriname, the ‘Play, Discover and Learn’, early learning program is helping ensure that every moment counts. With funding from Tubacex, UNICEF and Foundation Saga have expanded early learning programs to 29 daycare centers across Suriname, training staff to create joyful and engaging learning environments. These efforts are bridging the early learning gap and ensuring that 2–3-year-olds, have the best start in life.
