This happened yesterday, but I’m posting it today because I was really tired after the activity. Still, I’m happy with everything that happened. Tomorrow, I’ll be posting my Day 2. I was also with another Hiver, @whosee , who was one of the head facilitators during the activity. I felt so proud of him because he led with confidence and care. Seeing how he handled the children with so much patience and kindness inspired me a lot.
After the earthquake, our class from the Psychology Department volunteered to spend time with the children who were affected by the disaster. At first, I thought it would just be a fun activity, but as the day went on, I realized it was something deeper — something that touched my heart and opened my eyes as a Psychology student.
At the beginning, the kids were full of energy, running around and laughing with each other. But as the session continued, they started to calm down and follow instructions.
We started the day with a zumba dance to make everyone happy and excited. I was one of the leaders, and it made me really happy when the children followed our steps and danced with big smiles. The music was loud, and everyone was laughing and moving around. Some kids were shy at first, but later they joined and had fun too! I felt proud while leading because I could see how their faces started to glow with joy. For a while, it felt like we all forgot the sad things that happened after the earthquake.
After zumba, we prepared some games for them. The kids laughed, shouted, and joined excitedly. Their smiles were priceless. Then, we had a short Q&A activity for those who were seven years old and above. We asked simple questions just to get to know them better. I was so glad because they all participated and listened well. I realized that working with children takes a lot of patience and a louder voice, but it’s worth it when you see them happy and engaged.
After the games and Q&A, we were grouped into four members per facilitator. This was when we got to talk more personally with the kids. I was assigned to a group of four children. I introduced myself and asked how they were feeling. I didn’t bring up the earthquake directly because I didn’t want to remind them of something painful. Instead, I asked how they felt before and after it happened. They said they were okay and happy, and that made me feel relieved. I reminded them that it’s perfectly fine to feel sad sometimes too.
After a while, I asked, “What do you want to do right now?” One of them said, “Can you read us some stories, Ate?” That made me smile, so I read them a short story with a nice lesson. They listened quietly and seemed to enjoy it. After that, we sang and danced to “Sampung mga Daliri.” Seeing them smiling, laughing, and cooperating together made me feel so fulfilled. It was such a simple moment, but it truly meant a lot to me.
That day made me realize how powerful simple acts of kindness can be. Spending time with the children after the earthquake taught me that healing doesn’t always come from big things — sometimes, it comes from laughter, play, and genuine care. Seeing the kids smile, dance, and laugh again made me feel thankful that I was part of something meaningful. It also reminded me of the importance of patience, understanding, and empathy, especially as a Psychology student. Even though I was tired, my heart felt full. That experience will always remind me that bringing joy to others, no matter how small, can truly make a difference.