Being a Special Mother at Dorie’s Promise is filled with countless moments of joy, affection, and excitement. However, this role also comes with challenges that require responsibility and patience. As children grow and develop, their needs change, and so do the needs of the Special Mothers. To foster a healthy and positive environment, we provide regular training sessions tailored to these evolving needs.

The Importance of Training

The training we offer is essential for both the Special Mothers and the children. We aim to address not only primary care but also the developmental stages of each child. Through regular communication between Special Mothers and staff, we identify areas where additional support is needed.

One of the key training areas is managing children’s behavior. Our sessions on child development help Special Mothers understand what to expect at different stages and how to approach young children effectively. Given that conflicts can arise in a shared living space, we also provide conflict management training. This equips Special Mothers with techniques to address disagreements fairly and equitably.

Supporting Special Needs

We recognize the diverse needs of the children in our care. Training sessions focused on specific diagnoses, such as autism, help Special Mothers stay informed about the best caregiving practices. This knowledge enables them to provide the most appropriate support for each child’s unique situation.

Practical Skills for Daily Life

Throughout the year, we also conduct practical training sessions, such as waste management. This training not only organizes the home’s waste but also promotes recycling efforts. Safety is another priority, and we offer sessions on first aid, evacuation procedures, and fire drills. Additionally, we provide information on food handling to prevent contamination and ensure the children’s health.

Attachment and Grief

One of the most sensitive topics we cover is attachment and grief. For many children, adjusting to a new environment can be challenging, affecting their ability to form secure attachments. Our training sessions help Special Mothers understand the various types of attachment and equip them to foster strong, loving connections with the children.

We also recognize that the Special Mothers face their own emotional challenges. Training sessions on grief are provided, particularly for those who experience the heartache of a child leaving, especially after forming long-term bonds.

Evolving Challenges

For Special Mothers, ongoing training is crucial. Many express that, despite their previous experience with children, there is always something new to learn in this unique setting. Understanding the psychological and physical aspects of child development helps Special Mothers navigate difficult situations more effectively.

Many Special Mothers have found that knowledge in educational psychology enhances their empathy and understanding of the children’s needs. Psychological strategies learned in training help the children recognize and manage their emotions more effectively.

In conclusion, training sessions are an integral part of life at Dorie’s Promise. They enable us to create an environment where everyone can grow freely and reach their full potential. We are grateful to organizations like the Municipality of Guatemala, Rafael Landívar University, and the Neurological Center of Guatemala for their support in providing these valuable training sessions.