Spark Child Foundation<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This proposal presents evidence on “”Spark Child,”” a holistic intervention combining storytelling, nature engagement, and adaptable spiritual practices for emotionally disadvantaged children. Originally developed in Trinidad & Tobago for disadvantaged, orphaned and Venezuelan migrant\/refugee children, our pilot study demonstrates promising results applicable to UK education systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Intervention Components:
\u2022 Nature-based visual storytelling with hyper-realistic imagery
\u2022 Culturally-responsive spiritual practices adaptable across belief systems
\u2022 Wellbeing activities, including gratitude journaling and creative expression
\u2022 English language development through gamified comprehension tools<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research Methodology: Our qualitative research involved stakeholders, including the Archbishop of Port-of-Spain, psychologists, educators, parents, and children, through structured interviews, creative output analysis, journal entries, digital metrics, and behavioural observations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Implementation Sites:
\u2022 Care institutions (ages 12-17)
\u2022 State primary schools (ages 5-12)
\u2022 Humanitarian spaces for migrant children<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Qualitative Findings Examples (Participant Quotes):
\u2022 “”I feel surprised that there are so many positive things about me\u2026”” (Female, 15)
\u2022 “”It caused me to expand my imagination. It made me think what I really grateful for.”” (Male, 15)
\u2022 “”It made me feel happy because I never get a chance to express myself\u2026”” (Male, 16)
\u2022 “”I’ve discovered that I have many more parts and ways to me\u2026”” (Female, 17)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UK Application Research Question: Can Spark Child be adapted for refugee children within UK education systems?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UK Context Challenges:
\u2022 80,000+ students with English as additional language
\u2022 Migration-associated trauma
\u2022 Cultural integration needs<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Potential UK Applications:
\u2022 Nature-based buddy systems
\u2022 Multilingual storytelling with cultural awareness
\u2022 Gratitude practices fostering belonging
\u2022 Creative identity expression activities
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