Singakwenza: Mirrors for Mandela Day

July was Mandela month, and we decided to do a “Mirrors for Mandela Day” drive to purchase mirrors to put into each classroom.

Children are naturally curious, and mirrors provide a safe and engaging way for them to explore their own reflections and surroundings. Babies and toddlers usually begin to recognize themselves in the mirror around 15-18 months old. Seeing themselves in a mirror helps them develop a sense of self-awareness and identity, and they start to understand that the image in the mirror is their own reflection. Before this age, the babies think that it is another child in the mirror and will interact with it like it is a real friend.

When children see themselves in the mirror and compare themselves to others, they will notice both similarities and differences. In a world where bullying and cruelty happen every day, this awareness will be used in our classrooms to change the narrative from “You are different, so you are not good enough!” to “You are different, so you are unique!” Mirrors provide a great start in helping a child to develop their sense of self as being separate from others. If this discovery of being different can be shaped into a positive experience, it will affirm and build a child’s self-esteem. In addition, mirrors provide opportunities for social, emotional, and cognitive development; motor, language, and communication skills; and self-regulation and empathy.

We are delighted with the extra learning opportunities for our little ones, and we are grateful to our incredible supporters who made this possible!

With thanks,

Linda Hill and the Singakwenza team