*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals involved* “I’ve worked here for 16 years but still don’t have the proper documentation.” I want to better myself,…
Personal Story: A Sint Maartener, But Not on Paper
Doing Meaningful Activities with Children
It’s about Quality, not Quantity! As modern families juggle work, school, and other responsibilities, the challenge of finding time to connect with their children has become more pronounced. While some…
Interview: Protecting Children Through Social-Emotional Learning
Stichting EGO was founded in 2003 and is focused on education and youth development. Its most visible program is operating afternoon school programs. The foundation emphasizes learning through play and…
Screen Time and Developmental Delays in Children
“When we think of the future, are screens going away? No. Perhaps we need to keep this in mind when discussing how much screen time is healthy for a child,”…
Protecting Teenagers Against Substance Abuse
Tyanna Knight works as a substance abuse counsellor at the Turning Point Foundation, the only drug rehabilitation facility in Sint Maarten. Many patients are referred or mandated to their care…
Advice from Teens: How To Talk To Teens
Traumatic experiences such as accidents, violence, loss of a loved one, or experiencing a disaster such as a hurricane – can deeply affect teenagers. Discussing these difficult experiences with teenagers…
Personal Story: who is going to believe you?
“I washed the sheets,” was the line I remember hearing when I first started to suspect that my ex-husband was sexually abusing my daughter. “I am going to kill you,”…
Corporal punishment is illegal on Sint Maarten
On Sint Maarten most parents still believe in the proverb: “Spare the rod, spoil the child.” However, since 2013, Sint Maarten has a clear law on corporal punishment: it is…
More support needed for early childhood development
Sophia Farrell-Hassell, manager of Alexander’s Early Stimulation & Development Foundation and President of SECDA, advocates for more support in the early childhood development sector on Sint Maarten. “Good early childhood…
How do you prepare your children for a disaster?
As a parent, you can make a difference before, during and after a disaster. Offer your child both practical and mental support. Four parents share their views about what matters…