A simple Caravan

I was one of the first to arrive and there weren't that many children and there was no one around who knew Kannada, but managed to understand what the children were saying and played the game on the stones that they wanted too. It soon started raining and so we went inside and with the arrival of Kavya with the box of puzzles etc. The children went crazy and all started grabbing what they wanted but they soon settled down. After they settled down, Praveen came to me and asked me to read with him and we had a great time where I tried to explain to him what the story meant. He really enjoys reading and so do the others like Naveen who also came and read with me. While reading I made small talk with them and asked about their familes. Veena was there after a long absence but avoided the topic as to why she didnt come for so long. Then I played puzzles with Preeti and her sister again attempting at making small talk. It was a really nice day even though there were only very few volunteers present.

-- Susanna Thomas

Language No Barrier !!

As soon as we arrived, we were overwhelmed by the number of children that had shown up. All of them all lined up waiting to be registered. Along with two other Tacklers, we began registering all of them, giving them their name tags which they seemed to like. Having no knowledge of Kannada, I spoke to them in Malayalam and they all surprisingly understood me. They always helped out while smiling up at you and giggling when you had trouble spelling their names.  Just when we thought we were done, more children showed up and this went on till it was time to leave. They day ended with all of them shaking our hands and saying "Byyeee Akka" which was so heartwarming. It was a great end to a great day leaving everyone feeling energised and content.

--- Susanna Thomas