KNYSNA NEWS - Sunridge Primary School held what it called a "weekend of connection" with parents and teachers at Harkerville Forest Lodge in May.
The weekend was supported by the Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching's (KILT) life skills, counselling, Eco Club, and parent teams. KILT public relations lead Suzi Cinderey said the event created space for families to reconnect, reflect and grow.
She said many parents nowadays are working long hours to support their families, which leads to today's children turning to screens for information and connection that once came from elders and communities.
"It's easy to feel like the distance between us is growing. So how do we close the gap? It is through guided conversations and sharing of experiences. During the event we had moments of quiet strength and families rediscovered just how much they mean to each other," Cinderey said.
Activating understanding at Sunridge Primary
KILT also supported an event at Sunridge Primary School on Saturday 24 May. This was a joyful morning where parents and teachers connected beyond the classroom.
The event was supported by KILT's parent team and the energetic coaches from KILT's partner organisation, Knysna Sports Academy.
Mixed teams of parents and teachers went head to head in tug of war, five-a-side soccer, netball, and even dominos, while children cheered from the sidelines. The games were fun, but the goal was to nurture mutual respect and understanding.
Hands-on digital problem-solving
On Sunday 25 May, 27 excited parents from local high schools joined KILT's Lego Robotics and Coding Programme at Percy Mdala High for a hands-on session.
Cinderey said these sessions are more than just play; they are activities that help high school learners build the skills they'll need to thrive in the future, including problem-solving and digital literacy.
Parents left inspired and better equipped to support their children's journeys, recognising that behind the blocks and code lies something powerful: confidence, curiosity, and a pathway to future opportunities.
Honouring elders, strengthening support
On Wednesday 28 May, the KILT parent team, together with Famsa, joined Changes of Knysna for their monthly pamper day for seniors.
These elders, many of whom are still caregivers, were invited to chat about self-care, community connections and resilience.
KILT programme lead Sonia Thomas encouraged the audience to reach out, lean on available support, and prioritise their own well-being, reminding them that care goes both ways.
Cinderey said these are just some of the ways in which KILT continues to support the wider circle that surrounds every child in Knysna. Because when families are heard, supported, and included, young people thrive.
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