Emma didn’t speak.
Each week, she quietly entered the Primary Project playroom and went straight to the drawing station -- never saying a word.
Being confident isn’t something we’re born with; it is built through daily affirmations and an encouraging attitude that fosters bravery. Sometimes, children lock themselves in a bubble, trying not to upset those around them and avoid standing out. It takes a positive social support system to spark change in a child’s life, from being shy to being outspoken.
Emma’s teacher recommended enrolling her in the Primary Project program, which helps over 600 children each year adjust to school and enhance their social-emotional well-being. When the Primary Project Child Associate, Christine, started working with Emma, she noticed Emma didn’t speak during play-led sessions, which lasted 30 minutes each week. Week after week, she would spend 30 minutes drawing without talking.
Christine didn’t give up. She used positive, descriptive language to compliment Emma’s artwork, encouraging her creativity. Over the course of a few weeks, Emma began to gradually make eye contact and look around at the other toys in the playroom. This initial sign of curiosity was what Christine needed to encourage Emma to try something new.
When Emma came in the next time, she stood in the middle of the room and looked around. She seemed to be contemplating whether she should explore or return to her comfort zone (the drawing station). While she was considering, Christine chimed in, saying, “It looks like you are curious about the other toys. You know, you can play with anything you’d like in the playroom!”
This was the motivation Emma needed to be brave. She slowly approached a new area of the playroom and started to explore. She pulled out toys one by one, carefully choosing which ones to explore next. Emma started to look relaxed and even excited about having taken this new step. Her demeanor completely changed as she pulled out the finger puppets. As she wiggled her fingers and thumbs, she looked towards Christine and gleefully said, “Hi!”
This triumphant moment left Christine in tears as she recognized the breakthrough moment Emma had.
Emma’s teacher reported that since she started Primary Project, she has become more expressive with her peers and is willing to try new things. Emma even started to raise her hand and participate in classroom activities. This shows the power of patience and positive influence on a child’s life.
Emma’s outlook on trying new things and a new sense of self-assurance and enthusiasm for school is possible because of the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, which funds the Primary Project program at 12 public elementary schools. The goal is to help one at-risk child and family at a time, giving them the opportunity for a brighter future.
*The student’s name was modified for confidentiality.