Growing up in a single-parent family, Yuan-Yuan often struggled with impulsive behavior and staying focused. These challenges affected both his learning at school and his ability to make friends. As he fell behind academically and struggled to stay focused in class, he was often singled out by his teacher.

The teacher’s comments such as "Yuan-Yuan's drawing is the worst" and "Yuan-Yuan is always the one who's late" were sometimes made in front of his classmates. Over time, these experiences made him increasingly reluctant to go to school.

At home, Yuan-Yuan's favorite playmate was his older brother. However, because he was smaller and less physically strong, he often found himself at a disadvantage when playing with his brother or during sibling conflicts. Having received little encouragement or recognition from others, Yuan-Yuan gradually developed a negative view of himself.

"I'm no good. I can't do anything right," he often told his social worker during their conversations.

Growing Into His Strengths

Recognizing that Yuan-Yuan faced challenges with emotional regulation and peer relationships, his social worker arranged for him to join a children's group program organized by the Child Welfare League Foundation (CWLF) during the summer.

Over six sessions, a psychologist helped the children explore emotions and learn healthy coping strategies through picture books, drawing, clay modeling, building blocks, and relaxation exercises. Group games also provided opportunities for the children to practice positive social skills and peer interactions.

Throughout the program, Yuan-Yuan frequently volunteered to share his thoughts and eagerly helped both the adults and other children. His enthusiasm naturally drew the attention of his peers. Even his social worker was surprised to see how engaged and proactive he became in the group setting.

During one activity, the teacher invited the children to identify their own strengths. Balloons were used to symbolize positive qualities, and the children worked together to keep everyone's balloons in the air, representing the importance of recognizing and supporting one another's strengths.

Yuan-Yuan struggled to think of any strengths of his own. Before long, other children began calling them out for him:

"He's funny!"

"He's great at playing ball!"

"He's always willing to help others!"

Unused to receiving compliments, Yuan-Yuan shyly looked away, but the smile on his face said it all.

Helping Every Child Shine

One of the goals of CWLF's group programs is to create opportunities for children to build positive relationships with others while allowing social workers to observe different sides of each child. Through this experience, Yuan-Yuan's social worker saw a different side of him. He was proactive, followed group rules, and was willing to help his peers.

These observations showed that Yuan-Yuan had many strengths that had not been fully seen before. We believe this experience will remain an important and positive memory for him.

On the final day of the program, the psychologist shared a message with the children:

"I think every one of you is wonderful."

At CWLF, we believe every child has strengths worth recognizing. Sometimes, all they need is the right opportunity to let those strengths shine.

◼ Read more:
Vulnerable Families Empowerment Services
【Trauma-Informed Care Services】When a Mother Has No One to Turn To, Understanding Comes First
【Parenting Support Services】Nurturing Care for Parent-Child Interaction at Parenting+ Centers