Interventions

 

Interventions!

With the dropout ratio (young people leaving school before matriculating) in South Africa exceeding 40%, Education (Capital “E”) may well be deemed to be in a crisis. Are we alone in this? Certainly not, many developed countries cry out for interventions that will alleviate the problem.  (The USA for example quoted some years back figures of 30% not completing high school and some 40% + of 8^th graders not being able to read!)  Quoting figures of other countries though does not solve our problem (although detractors will use said figures as an excuse for us not to worry of course)

So where to now? As the title above suggests “Interventions” holds part, if not all the keys to solving the challenges. After some 48 years in Education in countries across the globe that word “Interventions” which often strikes fear into the average parent, remains key for me!

Interventions are a normal part of life in a lifetime of learning! When are they most effective?

·         Preschool: Invest in genuine, positive Preschools! Not backyard creches! Years ago in conversation with a Federal Reserve Chair in the USA, he suggested Preschools to be the “ one cure for inequality”- and I agree with him! Make sure you send your little one to the best Preschool you can afford! It is an investment in her/his matric. Health and social skills are improved and entering Junior or Elementary school becomes far easier. (Education Departments should apportion the biggest part of their funding in this area)

·         Is your child lost if the early years have been fraught with problems (for whatever reason)?  Not necessarily. Early intervention is possible and good at any age. Human development is a long and continuous process. Age appropriate interventions are needed. The child who struggles with reading and is in Grade 8 or above… DOES NOT want to be assisted at elementary school level- her/his world is different.

·         A word to end: Take away the cellphone- give her/him a book. The sooner the better. More on the topic of Interventions next week.