A Wall That Welcomes

   The PRITE (Programa de Intervencion Temprana) early intervention program in San Ramon, Peru is a welcoming place for babies and toddlers and their parents. It’s a place of smiles and laughter, of encouragement and support, as teachers provide therapy to their youngest students. These children have disabilities such as Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, vision and hearing impairment, and generalized developmental delay.

   Prior to leaving on each trip, we talk with the directors of the programs about their priorities, their dreams. We listen and, to the extent that we’re able, we help with their wishes. When we spoke with Edith Gladys Calderon, director of PRITE San Ramon, she told us they needed a wall. The program, which just opened its doors in 2015, was growing and a second teacher had been hired. Two teachers were sharing a small classroom. With babies, toddlers, parents, teachers, and therapists all in one room, the children were easily distracted. Edith wanted to know if we could build a wall to divide the classroom, giving each teacher her own space.

   We hired a contractor when we were there in July and, after we left, the wall was built. Here are some pictures of the process and of the amazing ladies serving in this program. They have become our friends, some for several years now, and have welcomed us just as they welcome the children and parents. Thank you, our dear friends, muchas gracias, queridas amigas.

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