Saving 50 children from substance-abuse cycle

Reporting Period: June – August 2025

June 2025

In June, the Saturday School focused on the theme of bullying and emotional health through the Superbook lesson “Roar” with memory verses from Luke 6:27–28. Alongside this, the team organized an anti-drug campaign, producing a short video and providing children with important information on the dangers of substance abuse. The lessons led to noticeable changes: children learned to differentiate between harmless teasing and real bullying, understood the emotional toll on victims, and recognized underlying causes such as anger or jealousy. They practiced non-violent responses, like speaking assertively, seeking adult help, and supporting peers rather than retaliating. A more empathetic and caring atmosphere began to take shape, as children apologized when they hurt others and encouraged open sharing of feelings. By the end of the month, over 80% of participants could explain bullying with real-life examples, expressed their feelings more openly, and showed less inappropriate teasing in class. One child, Nopakao (11 years old), testified that he used to make fun of a friend’s name but, after the lesson, realized the harm, apologized, and restored their friendship. He also shared how he learned to respond kindly or tell a teacher rather than seek revenge.

July 2025

The July program emphasized goal setting and relying on God in daily life. Through creative lessons, Bible stories, and hands-on activities, the children were guided to set personal goals, make step-by-step plans, and connect their dreams with faith and discipline. They also engaged in teamwork through cooking activities, which taught them planning, problem-solving, and cooperation, while financial exercises encouraged saving habits and basic money management. A growing number of children began praying daily, with some writing “letters to God” as part of their reflection. The program also partnered with visiting students from Nanhua University, Taiwan, for environmental activities and included family home visits. Clear changes emerged during this month: children expressed confidence when sharing goals in groups, worked systematically with peers to complete tasks, and some even planted a symbolic “Tree of Hope” to monitor their growth. The atmosphere was one of encouragement, where children supported one another, expressed faith more openly, and began to practice continuity between lessons and daily life.

August 2025

In August, the teaching centered on the story of David and Goliath, linking biblical faith with the concept of a growth mindset. Children who once said, “I can’t do it,” began saying, “I will try,” reflecting a shift from a fixed mindset to one of perseverance and growth. The story inspired them to see challenges not as impossible obstacles but as opportunities to learn and grow through effort and trust in God. As a result, more hesitant students raised their hands in discussions, encouraged their peers with positive words like “It’s okay, try again,” and displayed greater confidence. The children grasped the principle that failure is not the end but a teacher, and that faith in God provides strength to overcome life’s “giants.” Their behavior and group atmosphere reflected these values, showing both spiritual and emotional growth. A powerful testimony came from Tiw, a 14-year-old from a migrant Pa-O family. Once unruly and unmotivated in school, he gradually changed after attending Saturday School. Through learning about God, he discovered purpose, began to study with determination, and now dreams of contributing to his family and community. Holding onto Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—Tiw expressed confidence that with God’s help he can persevere despite obstacles.

Conclusion

Over these three months, the project has nurtured 80 children in emotional health, life skills, and faith. Each month’s focus—bullying, goal setting, and growth mindset—produced visible results in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. The children are becoming more resilient, empathetic, and spiritually grounded, with stories of real transformation emerging from their lives. We are grateful for God’s guidance and the enthusiastic participation of every child, and we thank our partners for making this ministry possible.

Links:

• Search for us on Google
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Four-Month Summary Report: Child Development Program (January–April 2025)

Over the past four months, the child development program has implemented a well-rounded series of activities that supported spiritual growth, life skills, artistic development, health awareness, and family engagement for 80 participating children.

January 2025:
The program began the year with spiritual instruction through the Superbook episode on Gideon, emphasizing faith and obedience. A mobile medical team conducted health check-ups for children and families, and art lessons were provided, focusing on pencil drawing, line work, and geometric shapes. Church leaders conducted home visits, delivering food support and offering spiritual encouragement. Lala’s testimony reinforced the value of staying close to God. These efforts strengthened the children’s physical, artistic, and spiritual well-being.

February 2025:
This month focused on deeper spiritual understanding through the "Sermon on the Mount" episode. Children learned about their rights and how to protect themselves. A highlight was participation in the BELOVED event in Chiang Mai, where Lala and others shared their experiences. Art classes continued, and the “worker ant” youth team received training in self-responsibility. As a result, children showed increased confidence in art, improved personal accountability, and a more profound grasp of biblical principles and obedience.

March 2025:
Lessons in March emphasized Jesus’s mission to save sinners. Children explored color theory in art and continued developing personal responsibility through life skills training. The moderator team, in particular, showed marked improvement in academics, punctuality, and assignment completion. Assessment tools confirmed real progress, demonstrating better time management, self-discipline, and academic outcomes. The month concluded with student reflections, expressing gratitude and recognizing their personal transformation.

April 2025:
The month featured the Superbook “Healthy Heart” lesson and memory verse (Isaiah 41:10). Key events included a Songkran Safety Campaign and a “Drug-Free” youth camp. Thirty families joined a three-day “Strong Families” training, and weekly art sessions continued. Children learned about color mixing and poster painting. The moderator team showed improved social skills, while families began applying effective communication and parenting techniques. The summer camp reinforced faith, service, and unity. Children prayed, read scripture, and actively supported each other. Parents and church leaders played a crucial role in fostering a loving, spiritually enriched environment.

Summary of Impact:
From January to April 2025, the child development program achieved measurable outcomes across multiple dimensions. Children gained spiritual maturity, improved academic and artistic skills, and developed stronger social and life competencies. Family involvement and church support proved instrumental in this transformation. Simultaneously, the Center progressed toward sustainability by enhancing food production through agricultural initiatives. Altogether, the program succeeded in nurturing well-rounded, responsible, and faith-rooted children, aligned with its mission of holistic development.

This is a story of a girl in the program. My name is Rattanapond. I’m 12 years old and currently in Grade 5 at Ban Nam Hu School. My family has five members: my father, 35, is a driver; my mother, 34, is a homemaker; my older sister is 20 and works as a laborer; and I have a younger brother who is 8 years old.

Every Saturday, I come to the center where I get to meet new friends from other schools and villages. There are many fun activities that help me learn more about myself. The program focuses on teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and also teaches life skills like time management, planning, and handling challenges.

Coming here is not just for fun—it’s an investment in myself. I’ve grown in many areas: academically, socially, and in responsibility. I want to be capable and happy in the future. I’m very thankful to the Saeng Arun Center for organizing such meaningful activities for me and my friends. Without them, my Saturdays would be boring—just staying home watching TV or playing games. I wouldn’t have met new friends or discovered my interests. I thank God for allowing me to be part of this amazing experience. I’ve learned so many new things and feel truly blessed to be here. And I want to thank all the kind adults who support this program. I promise to keep learning and to use what I’ve learned to benefit myself and others.

Links:

• Search for our foundation on https://www.cbnthailand.com/