Jacob’s Story: Learning to be a child again

Jacob arrived at Kids Haven when he was three. The way he spoke was shocking. He spoke like an adult. He punched other children, wouldn’t accept being disciplined, wouldn’t listen. He came to us severely neglected and impoverished. One of five children, he was the youngest. His mother abandoned the children and they were found in a shack. During this time, his 12-old sibling was looking after him. There was no parenting and he was exposed to things that no three-year old should see or hear. He was allowed to say and do whatever he wanted. The amazing caregivers at Kids Haven worked closely with him. Allowing him to be a baby, a three-year old, loving him and being consistent with discipline. That’s what he needed the most: love and discipline at the same time. He is now so much better. There has been a huge change. There are still some small things to work on but he has made incredible progress. He has adapted very well. He has learned social skills amongst his age group and with the older children. He is now able to talk to adults like a normal child of his age. He plays well with his roommates and he has grown. He has a chance to be a child and grow into a caring, responsible, and kind adult. Every child matters.