We focus on youth development for at-risk children in China through values-based arts and sports programs.
There are currently an estimated 150-200 million migrant laborers who have moved from the rural countryside into the major cities of China. These migrant laborers face a choice, either uproot their entire family or leave behind their children, and sometimes their spouse, in search of livelihood in the cities.
We seek to reach youth who have been impacted by this social phenomenon. Migrant children or left-behind children are especially vulnerable to low self-esteem, low self-image and delinquency. Recent studies show that crime amongst youth in China has escalated dramatically in recent years and is estimated to increase at an average of 13% annually. Left on their own, gangs attract children by providing comfort, structure and a sense of purpose. Lacking a family structure, these children gain social identity through their gangs.
Migrant children mostly live outside the city center in surrounding districts and frequently move with their parents to the next job opportunity. These children lack stability due to frequent moving. Migrant children continue to suffer from limited access to quality education and government services. Many lack a strong parental influence and grow to be disenfranchised and marginalized.
The second group of children affected by the migration movement are those left behind in the rural countryside. These children may be left in the care of grandparents or other kin or sometimes even on their own. In certain regions of China, the percentage of children with parents working in other provinces is as high as 50%. Studies show that a large percentage of these children perform poorly in schools citing poor social support, poor economic background, lack of familial support, and low motivation levels as key reasons.
CAI is actively working to address and improve the issues facing these children.
Creative arts help develop essential communication skills, as the children learn to express themselves through their creations. Studies show that arts also raise self-confidence and build effective problem-solving skills. The arts also instill values, personal and social, and is a medium of expression of the self and one's reflection on society. Thus, art education can give these children a voice, and potentially a voice for change.
Team sports teaches integrity, loyalty and morals. Simultaneously, it fosters leadership, negotiation and communication skills and boosts self-confidence and self-image. It also aids in their mental, emotional and physical development. Through competitive sports, children will learn the importance of teamwork and develop courage to face impact and conflict. Sports has been a proven tool for promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and positive character development.
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