On facebook there is a group called ‘Addicted to Brasov’. It is no wonder it’s getting close to 100 members, because Brasov truly is a wonderful place to live. Even after returning back to England, for a good two weeks, I was still referring to Brasov as home!
In the first few days of my placement our brilliant representative, Razvan, took our volunteer group to view all the different placements that we could choose from. I chose to work at three different ‘Family Homes’ in the surrounding villages. There used to be one large state orphanage in the centre of Brasov. In the past five years ‘Family Homes’ have been built in the surrounding villages and the state orphanage shut down.
The conditions of the family homes are basic, but clean and warm; and each houses approximately 7-16 children. All of the children I was working with had severe physical and/or mental disabilities. This can create behavioural problems with some of the children. However, even the most mischievous were so loveable. The best thing about my time in Romania was bonding with the children.
In my third month I built up the courage to attempt some painting with the children. The painting was a real highlight. Some children who I thought would misbehave actually applied themselves really well. I even got some of the babies doing hand painting-so cute! Probably my most useful resource was my voice. Singing, particularly action songs, is really popular with the children. Some of the children are not allowed out of their beds due to sickness, and they love to be spoken and sang to, even if all you’re talking about is complete gobbledygook!
Bubbles balloons, party blowers and picture books also worked extremely well with all the children. It is wonderful to see the vast improvements in Romanian Childcare. Things are changing so quickly. A little bit of Romanian language went a long way. The hosts/carers really appreciate the effort and want to get to know us. It was often difficult communicating with the carers; although it was really great when we could have a little chat in a bizarre mixture of Romanian and English!
Everyday in Romania I couldn’t wait to see the children. I still miss them deeply. No doubt I will be back soon!
Many regular readers will recall my piece in the Winter 07 Newsletter about our presence on Facebook. Thank you to all of you who have become ‘Fans of Oyster’. I felt the page was quite restrictive on what we could do so I have just launched a new Oyster Facebook Page. Please do become a Fan and ask all those burning questions that you may have! For those of you that have already had the experience of a lifetime with Oyster, why not upload your pictures and video clips for future participants to see? Please do use the wall and discussion boards so that we can make the page a ‘fountain of all knowledge’!
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