When Londyn first arrived at Atlanta Children’s Shelter, adjusting to change was difficult.
For many children at ACS, change and adjustment can be exceptionally challenging due to
past traumas caused by housing instability. At first, Londyn struggled to regulate his
emotions at school, especially during morning drop-off. Londyn loves his mother, Ciera, and
his little brother, Ja’Karri, very much, so saying goodbye for the day was tough.
However, Ciera, a dedicated mother to her children, accepted all the support ACS staff offered
and worked with Londyn to adjust to the changes. First, Londyn faced barriers in speech and
language which affected talking about emotions. These barriers are common amongst
children facing homelessness. To address these challenges, Londyn, along with all ACS
students, has received and continues to receive bi-weekly speech and language therapy from
graduate-level clinicians in partnership with Georgia State University. Londyn has also
received free behavioral health assessments and plenty of free play therapy in his time at
ACS.
Now, when Londyn has big feelings, his teachers invite him to a cozy corner where he can do
his activities and have a small talk. One of Londyn’s teachers, Ms. Bri says, “Talking about
what made him upset and how can we prevent that from happening helps. By the time we are
done with the activities Londyn will say, ‘Okay Mrs. Bri, I’m ready to go back now.’” This
emotional expression is a vital part of helping children recover from trauma. Being able to
identify and talk about their feelings is the first step in addressing those feelings in a
healthy way.
When you donate on Giving Tuesday, you’ll support kiddos like Londyn in the present and
future. You’ll support parents like Ciera, who are working to build the best lives possible for
their children. Will you support generations of strength?
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