Empower Rural China Students - 21st Century Skills

EEF LGS has long been committed to promoting interdisciplinary reading and practical literacy among youth in remote and rural areas. To stimulate students' interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), and cultivate their innovative thinking, hands-on skills, and teamwork spirit, the group initiated the annual STEM challenge with the theme "Rocket Catcher Design" in 2025. This project aims to guide students through a real-world problem-driven, project-based learning process, combining reading, research, design, and practice to complete the entire journey from theory to a finished product,
thereby enhancing their comprehensive competencies.

Via online meetings, detailed explanations of the challenge task were provided to teachers at five project sites located in Jiangxi, Henan, Jiangsu, and Anhui provinces. The task was to design and build a device capable of safely "catching" a simulated rocket (low-velocity projectile), with requirements for stability, adjustability, and innovation. Relevant reading materials were distributed, encouraging teachers and students to conduct preliminary material study and group discussions.

Under the organization of teachers or instructors, each project site carried out activities step by step:

• Research and Brainstorm: Students read related materials to understand rocket motion
• principles, catcher structural design, and material properties, completing preliminary design sketches in groups.
• Prototyping: Using limited materials provided by the project (such as cardboard, A4 paper, string, paper clips, tape, etc.), students built catcher prototypes and conducted initial tests.
• Iterate the design: Based on test results, students adjusted designs, improving structural strength, catching accuracy, and operational ease, documenting the improvement process.
• Official Test and Submission: Each group wrote a project report, recorded a demonstration video, and submitted their final work for evaluation.

We invited three STEM education experts, engineers, and teachers to form an evaluation committee. Entries were comprehensively reviewed from three dimensions: final catcher score, scientific merit, and innovation. A total of 51 award-winning primary and secondary school students were selected (including first, second, and third prizes, as well as special awards like Best Design Award).

Project Overview

The Yunnan Tengchong Rural Community Parenting & Child Development Program, implemented by the Yunnan Representative Office of the Federation of Associations Connected to the Humana People to People Movement (Switzerland), aims to promote the physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children aged 0-4 in rural communities. By establishing Parenting & Play Centers, conducting caregiver training, and organizing home visits. This project aims to establish a village-level early childhood education system for rural preschool children, ensuring they are not left behind by their urban peers. Currently, two centers are fully operational in Sanlian Village and Xinglong Village, benefiting children and families with structured daily activities, expert guidance, and community support.

Detailed Progress & Achievements

1. Daily Activities at the Parenting & Play Centers

The centers follow a carefully designed daily schedule that balances structured learning, free play, and caregiver engagement. Below is an expanded breakdown of key activities:

• 9:00–9:30 AM: Happy Welcome
  Children arrive and undergo a brief health check while caregivers receive guidance.

"The ‘Happy Welcome’ time sets a positive tone. Mothers of younger babies especially appreciate the one-on-one advice on feeding and stimulation." — Zhou Yanli, PPI (Parenting and Play Instructor, Sanlian Village)

• 9:50–10:20 AM: Structured Developmental Activities
  Activities target five key areas:
• Physical movement (e.g., crawling games, balance exercises)
• Social-emotional skills (e.g., sharing, expressing feelings)
• Language & communication (e.g., storytelling, singing)
• Art & sensory play (e.g., finger painting, texture exploration)
• Self-care habits (e.g., handwashing, tidying up)

"The ‘Five Senses Art’ session is a favorite! Kids love touching different materials, and parents are amazed at how it boosts their curiosity." — Zhang Rongchun, PPI (Xinglong Village)

• 10:30–11:10 AM: Outdoor Play & Sunbathing
  Children engage in group games, sand play, or simple exercises while caregivers observe and participate. Sunbathing (10–15 minutes) helps prevent vitamin D deficiency.
• 12:10–12:40 PM: Scientific Parenting Session
  Caregivers learn about child nutrition, positive discipline, and early brain development through interactive discussions and demonstrations.

"I never knew responding to a baby’s babbling could speed up language learning. Now I talk to my grandson more intentionally." — Elderly caregiver (Xinglong Village)

• 12:50–1:30 PM: Free Exploration & Music Time
  Children choose activities such as block-building, doll play, or musical instruments, fostering independence and creativity.

2. Caregiver Training & Home Visits

• Monthly Workshops: Topics include hygiene, early literacy, and managing tantrums.

"The ‘Positive Discipline’ workshop changed how I handle my child’s meltdowns—less yelling, more understanding!" — Duan Ruting (Sanlian Village parent)

• Home Visits (40/month): PPIs address individual challenges (e.g., speech delays, malnutrition) and provide tailored advice.

3. Impact on Children & Families

• Improved Social Skills:

"My son used to hide behind me. Now he greets friends and teachers confidently!" — Sanlian Village parent

• Health & Hygiene Awareness:

"After the ‘Germs & Handwashing’ demo, my granddaughter reminds me to wash my hands before meals!" — Xinglong Village grandparent

4. Community Engagement

• Local Collaboration: Village leaders assist in mobilizing families and maintaining center facilities.
• Cultural Integration: Traditional songs and games are incorporated into activities.

Plans for the Remainder of 2025

1. Expand Reach: Open a third center in a neighboring village (pending funding).
2. Enhanced Training: Introduce trauma-informed care for left-behind children.
3. Parent Support Groups: Monthly peer-sharing sessions to reduce isolation.

Voices from the Ground

• A Grandparent’s Reflection:

"At first, I thought this was just a ‘playgroup.’ But now I see my grandson counting, singing, and even helping me sweep—all learned at the center!"

• A PPI’s Vision:

"These children might one day become teachers, doctors, or leaders. We’re planting the seeds today." — Zhou Yanli

Conclusion

The project’s holistic approach—combining education, health, and community empowerment—is transforming lives in Tengchong’s villages. With continued support, we can ensure every rural child thrives. Evergreen Education Foundation funding has made it possible to begin this innovative childhood development project for rural children.