As a part of its Social Workers week of activities, the Department of Social Development released its dynamic little book – “Be Kind” – on Monday, 14th March, at the Anguilla Public Library.
The book contains 20 pages of reading and illustrations that highlight the unkind, demeaning manner in which one primary school student, became the ring-leader in heckling a new student, in class, who was a foster-care child. But forgiveness prevailed after apologies were expressed, and it was not long before the tide was turned as acts of kindness abounded.
Commissioner of the Department of Social Development, Ms. Lauraine Gumbs, gave a synopsis of the creation of the book: “Today we are happy to be partnering with the Anguilla Public Library and the Education Department on this momentous occasion when we launch this book, Be Kind.
“For many years, the Department has participated in activities in pre and primary schools across Anguilla in an effort to bring awareness to the profession, and the attributes associated with social work such as helping people and being kind. Sometimes it would be an arduous task to find books suitable for topics that we would like to address. Last year, as we embarked on our foster care campaign, the issue arose again, and that is where the idea of ‘Be Kind’ was birthed.”
On behalf of the Ministry of Social Development, Social Planner, Mrs. Keisha Gumbs-Bibby, gave high praise for the book: “As an officer who personally engages in a lot of content creation and research, I am very proud to be a part of the launch of this book ‘Be Kind’.
“I trust that the Department of Social Development will ensure that this book benefits parents, teachers and students alike, as it becomes more popular. I wish to say kudos to the content team and to the child who masterfully did the illustrations in the book. The book is informative on many levels, and it will make an excellent tool when it comes to eradicating prejudice and discrimination.”
Ms. Brittany Christopher, a member of the Family and Social Services Unit, of the Department, also gave the book a boost: “The book ‘Be Kind’ was predicated on the notion that with the varying changes of life which people may face, particularly children who enter foster care, it is relevant that we engage them — both children and adults — and we must mindfully do so with kindness, understanding, respect and compassion.
“The book has twenty pages that tell a story from a child’s perspective, and hopefully it will give children the opportunity to process matters about kindness, particularly for children in need of care and protection.”
During the launch, high school student, Kuizanique Hodge, took the time to eloquently read the entire book to the delight of all who listened.
Finally, speaking on the virtues of “Be Kind” was Mrs. Tracelyn Hamilton, Education Officer for Multi-Professional Support Services. She noted that the book, as a teaching tool, was intended to help decrease — if not remove — the stigma associated with being a foster-child. “It beckons all to be kind, empathetic and accepting of children who have foster parents,” she said.
“I particularly like that ‘Be Kind’ is not simply a story to be read or a guide to kindness, but it also gives the reader time to engage in activities before, during and after reading it. Children learn better when they are actively engaged. This book makes for good strategy, and good pedagogical practice.”
“On behalf of the Department of Education,” she said, “I wish to congratulate and commend The Family and Social Services Unit, of the Department of Social Development for taking on this initiative. We look forward to using this book and reaping the rewards of kindness and empathy from it.”
