11-year-old David* has had a really tough start in life, with both parents in and out of custody and very little contact with them.
David’s experiences have led to emotional regulation difficulties, and he, understandably, finds trusting adults especially difficult.
That’s why having his Rise mentor turn up for him every week, rain, hail or shine, has been vital in showing him that there are people who he can ask for help when he needs it.
“All he’s seeking is continuity and someone who shows genuine care,” says his mentor.
When his school referred him to the Rise program, David was struggling in the classroom and the schoolyard.
He found it hard to concentrate on his schoolwork and would act as the ‘class clown’. He couldn’t maintain friendships because he quickly became upset when other children acted in a way he didn’t like or ‘broke promises’.
His behaviour sometimes escalated to physical violence, and he’s been suspended from school several times.
In his sessions, he and his mentor have spent considerable time discussing ways to build and maintain healthy friendships and examining the things that trigger him so that he can better understand his reactions.
“I have spent many hours with David talking through past decisions and why he’s reacted the way he has. We also have worked on building his self-esteem and helping him know he is valued,” said his mentor.
The hard work during sessions paid off. A turning point happened this year when David’s continued improved behaviour meant he could attend school camp.
Although he was a little apprehensive, the camp was a major success! His teacher told his mentor he was fantastic during the camp and conducted himself well the entire time.
“His teacher had nothing but praise!” said his mentor, “I was told he tried new activities and happily got involved in sports and socially with his peers.”
David was so proud of himself and his teacher’s comments that he’s now really looking forward to the next school camp. It’s been great for him to experience such a positive event and the good that can come when he puts his newfound emotional regulation skills into action.
David now lives with an extended family member who, despite their own struggles, has taken on a sole carer role and is doing their absolute best to be a good role model.
David greatly admires this relative, and it’s a positive relationship in his life. His relative has expressed that it’s been a challenge for them to take on a parenting role, but the support SHINE for Kids offers to help at home has been welcomed.
We have helped out with birthday presents, school uniforms, backpacks, lunch-box, water bottles and other essentials that can be very expensive.
David also LOVES fruit and has super healthy taste buds! To encourage this, his mentor always brings seasonal fresh fruit to their sessions, and they have fun trying new fruits together and discovering new flavours!
David is doing so well, and while he’s now graduated from the Rise program, he’ll still stay in touch with his mentor. We can’t wait to watch him continue to grow and thrive.
David loves to try new fruits!
Thank you to The Benevolent Society for supporting this Rise program.
*Names changed to protect participant privacy.
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