Reflections on Kawila Anukul school.

 At work on friday it was sports day. The day was kicked off at 8:30 with a big parade. All of the kids were dressed in different color shirts according to team. At the front of the line there was a marching band which was really cool... they were so good. Everybody, kids and teachers included, marched down the street together grouped by color. It was really nice. They were even able to stop traffic and people on the side of the street clapped and smiled. The teachers threw me right into the swing of things and one bought me an ice tea. They sometimes drink ice tea out of plastic bags with a little straw and the tea is so sweet. It kind of reminds me of New Orleans sweet tea. Throughout the day various teams competed against one another in little relay races, soccer matches, basketball or other games. I helped with the kindergarteners for a while in the morning... they are a handful. They have so much energy but are such cuties. I was working with this one little boy who lacked many muscles in the left side of his body so he kind of just throws himself on you and on anything really. So both his physical and mental control were limited. But he was so adorable and ended up winning the relay match for his team.  There was also some dance performances by some of the girls which were really great. They were all made up and so excited. I wish I had pictures because it really is such a beautiful space and environment. It was a great day... so cool to see kids so excited and motivated. Also, one thing that is really sticking out to me about these kids is how well they take care of one another. They really act like family members and seem to have such strong bonds. People who I have talked to here say that the value of family is very great. It makes sense when you see these kids acting like brothers, sisters or even parents for one another.  Also, I have been noticing things about how the kids are disciplined that is very interesting to compare to the US. If one kid hits another here and a teacher witnesses it, the teacher does not jump to their feet and reprimand a kid for causing trouble. It's just sort of seen and possibly acknowledged, but the teachers aren't pounding the kids with consequences and talks. It seems to be treated as, "it will be what it will be" and whatever consequences one faces is what they will have to be individually responsible for. This is not to say that if one kid was being cruel or really physically harmful that the teacher wouldn't do something. But overall, it seems to be more of the hands-off approach. And believe me, this place is not crazy or chaotic. It is so peaceful in many ways. So I am enjoying observing different styles and comparing it to what I am use to.