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Essential Skills

In addition to its core work of school reinforcement, literacy and numeracy, CCDIA now offers a range of specialised extra-curricula courses to children and teenagers. For many children, extra skills such as English and Information Technology will be crucial in later life.

But taking part in CCDIA's specialised courses provides a child with more than just the opportunity to learn a new skill. As with any of CCDIA's activities, our specialised courses aim for holistic development of the children who attend.

Wide-Ranging Benefits

The opportunity to attend optional classes increases a child's motivation to succeed. It improves their self-esteem and changes the way they respond to those around them.

It is common for families to report that their children become better behaved, help more around the house and have more respect for their parents. They generally become more active and are keener to get involved in other things.

Variety of Courses

The range of courses that a project is able to offer depends on the volunteers available. English language and Information Technology courses are now a integral part of life at many CCDIA projects, and some provide even more vocational training such as car mechanics and hairdressing.

A Beach Soccer school at one of the projects in Niterói proves extremely popular and is a valuable opportunity to work with a wider range of children than would normally attend.

Sustaining the Courses

All of these courses are provided free of charge to the communities they serve. They are only made possible through generous donations of time and equipment by individuals and organisations.

If you would like to help this aspect of CCDIA's work either financially or by donating equipment and materials, refer to the 'how to help' section. If you think you might be able to offer practical help as a volunteer, read the page on 'Donating Time'.