ChildSafe Enhances ECD Safety with Comprehensive Training in Eastern Cape
This past week, ChildSafe South Africa, in collaboration with Woolworths, completed a transformative two-day Early Childhood Development (ECD) Safety Module Training Workshop at the East London Health Resource Centre. This marks the third training intervention since the project commenced in November 2024, with more than 60 ECD practitioners reached to date with practical skills focused on ensuring child safety. This workshop is part of the ongoing “Leave No Child Behind – Child Injury Prevention Awareness, Education, and Training” initiative launched to reduce preventable injuries among children. Read more about the project here
Empowering ECD Practitioners: The Training Overview
The two-day workshop aimed to equip ECD practitioners with valuable knowledge and practical strategies to create safer environments for children. The training provided a comprehensive approach to child safety, addressing both accident prevention and emergency response. A total of 20 ECD Practitioners participated in the training, which was facilitated by Sindi Zungu and Elethu Sotomela, together with the First Aid service provider, SBK Training Academy.
Day 1: Ensuring Safe Environments
The first day of training commenced with an insightful discussion on the importance of safety in ECD facilities. Participants learnt about various risks that children may encounter and explored strategies to mitigate potential hazards. Recognising that growth and development play a vital role in preventing injuries, attendees were guided through methods to create safe surroundings for children.
A highlight of the day was a session on poisons and ingestions. Participants received expert advice on the risks posed by different substances, along with practical tips on prevention and management. This session empowered individuals with the knowledge required to respond swiftly and effectively in cases of suspected poison ingestion.
Day 2: Paediatric First Aid Skills
The second day focused on providing participants with essential paediatric first aid skills. Understanding the critical importance of timely intervention during emergencies, this session equipped attendees with the knowledge and techniques to respond effectively to medical situations commonly encountered in ECD settings.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in hands-on training exercises that simulated real-life scenarios. Instructors demonstrated first aid techniques, including CPR, choking management, and wound care. By actively participating in these practical sessions, attendees gained confidence and skills that can potentially save lives in emergency situations.
SBK Training Academy Director, Ms. Phumeza Ceshemba, says: “First aid training provides invaluable skills for those in supervisory roles, equipping ECD Practitioners with the knowledge needed to care for those who cannot aid themselves. Educators not only supervise classrooms but also care for children who lack the necessary skills to help themselves in an emergency. The training provides ECD practitioners with tools to prevent situations from worsening once they are capacitated. Immediate basic first aid care can significantly stabilise a child’s condition until emergency medical services arrive. This is especially critical in the Eastern Cape, where health facilities may be far from communities, and the shortage of ambulances and poor infrastructure can negatively impact turnaround time. Implementing this intervention can address some of these challenges and potentially save lives.”
Introducing the New Coordinator
The training session also served as an induction for the new programme coordinator, Elethu Sotomela, a Social Auxiliary Worker who will oversee the training initiative in East London going forward. Elethu’s involvement marks a new chapter in ChildSafe’s efforts to enhance child safety through education and training.
Recognising Commitment: Certificate of Attendance
Upon successful completion of the two-day workshop, participants received a level 1 First Aid certificate as well as a certificate of attendance. These certificates serve as a testament to their dedication and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of children in their ECD facilities.