With the new month, there was something new for the children to learn right away. Together with them, we held a workshop on the topic of “handwashing.” First, we worked together in a playful way to learn how germs spread and why it’s important to wash your hands regularly. Afterward, we discussed the individual steps and put them straight into practice. 
We were also busy baking again during our last two months here. From Amerikaner cookies to French toast and sheet cakes, we made it all. The children not only gave their all while baking but also made sure that nothing was left over.
To keep the children challenged during the holidays, we organized a “Spelling Contest,” where the girls and boys could put their spelling skills to the test. In addition, a two-week holiday school was held for the children, where they were taught math, languages, and sciences by their primary school teachers. The goal was to close any existing gaps by reviewing the school material from the past year. It was also very interesting for us to see how lessons are structured here. We especially liked how each individual student was addressed, which definitely made the two weeks a complete success.
The “Creative Arts Sessions” weren’t neglected either. In addition to handmade bracelets, we also made a photo garland, bookmarks, and much more.
We were also allowed to accompany Mercy on “home visits” for the first time. We got to know different families and their stories. For us, it was a very valuable but also emotional experience to see the conditions under which people live here. What stuck in our minds the most is that there is unfortunately often a lack of money for medical care, which stands in the way of necessary treatment.
We had another new but less nerve-wracking experience when we prepared pancakes not in a pan on the stove as usual, but on traditional chapati stoves heated with charcoal. To our surprise, frying them worked remarkably well, so the children could enjoy their pancakes later with jam and cinnamon sugar. To get into the Christmas spirit, we baked cookies with the children and then decorated them with icing and sprinkles.
As a highlight, we went swimming with the children in the last week. Although the sun wasn’t on our side from the start, the trip was enjoyed to the fullest. They swam and splashed until their teeth chattered with cold. The whole thing was topped off at the end with fries, sausages, and soft drinks.
We are very grateful for the wonderful time and the valuable experiences we were able to gain at the MCC. We will especially miss the moments shared with the children.
Asante Sana!
Paula, Deana, and Klara