This year, our children participated in the Start Small Dream Big (SSDB) project with the theme “I Am Unique, Just Like You.” Through this journey, the children explored and learnt more about people with different abilities, including physical disabilities, sensory disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and autism. We also worked closely with the Down Syndrome Association (DSA) to gain a deeper understanding of people with Down Syndrome.
To kick off our project, we held a launch party with DSA where the children got to know more about the work they do and how we can play a part in supporting their community. Before learning about others, the children first reflected on themselves and concluded that everyone looks different — and that makes each of us unique.
As they learnt more about the different disabilities, we focused on people with Down Syndrome. The children observed how individuals might look or learn differently, and they thoughtfully shared ideas on how they could help others in need. The highlight of this experience was an interview session with some of the learners at DSA. They shared about their hobbies, favourite things, and even the jobs they enjoyed. Through these conversations, the children discovered that, despite our differences, we share many of the same interests, dreams, and joys — and that makes us all special.
Inspired to make a difference, the children created thoughtful resources for the learners at DSA. They:
• Cut and pasted handmade puppets for storytelling,
• Crafted simple musical instruments for music and play,
• Designed a math resource to make addition more engaging.
These hands-on projects not only allowed our children to contribute meaningfully, but also nurtured their empathy, creativity, and sense of purpose.
To express their appreciation, the children prepared a heartfelt token of thanks for DSA, showinggratitude for the time, knowledge, and experiences shared.
This SSDB journey has been a truly meaningful one. The children learnt the values of kindness, inclusivity, and respect — and discovered that while we are all different, we are also beautifully alike.
