Monday, September 19, 2011

health class

Thought I'd share a little about what's been keeping me busy these days...

Part of my responsibilities here at the campus where we serve include health education. In the past there has been a health class offered as part of the 3rd year curriculum for our students. Another co-worker and I have taught that class for the last 3 years. The last time we taught we were only given 3 weeks, and that was just not enough time - it really felt like "too little, too fast, and too late." We suggested that the class be given more time, and be offered to the first semester students so that eventually all the students would be given information that would not only help them in future life/ ministry but also be directly applicable here on campus - with their families, dormmates, etc. So this semester we've begun that program. We have 12 students, and a 5 week block to discuss health, germ theory, prevention, cleanliness, over-the-counter medicine, and some simple first aid. Most of these students are from tribal areas, so their understanding of any of these concepts is minimal at best and sometimes flawed, but we've been able to take things at a slower pace and they seem to be grasping everything well so far.

This last week we talked about what causes sickness and how our body fights it, and also took a couple of days to discuss some simple ways to prevent sickness and infection using sunlight, clean water, and soap, plus some tips on food safety, cleanliness, etc. We try to keep it simple and very practical. The class is an hour each weekday morning and runs till Oct. 14th... from there I run home and try to collect my thoughts to home school my kids the rest of the morning! It's an additional load for me but so worth the effort, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to help equip these students to live a better, healthier life.

Thanks for stopping by!

4 comments:

  1. ...and think of the impact you're making on the lives of so many! Blessings!

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  2. Dina: Thank you so much for sharing about your ministry. Its so hard to believe that in today's world there are people who do not know about things like germs and clean water. Its so wonderful of you to add this class onto your already busy day.

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  3. Bless you, Dina, for your willingness to share and give of yourself everywhere you go.

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