Ratanda educator launches multilingual Grade R book to support early learning
A Ratanda-based educator has published a new Early Childhood Development book aimed at supporting Grade R teachers and inspiring young learners, drawing on years of classroom experience and childcare practice.
Ratanda-based educator and author, Lucy Zulu Mosikare( 57) has published a self-written Early Childhood Development book titled My First Day in Grade R, aimed at supporting both learners and practitioners in the foundation phase of education.
Mosikare, who grew up in Duduza and later relocated to Ratanda, said her passion for working with children was shaped at an early age when she took on the role of the eldest child in her family and helped care for her younger siblings.
“After completing matric, I pursued studies in education at a college in Springs. After completing my studies, I established my own daycare centre before joining Sithokomele Primary School as a Grade R teacher. I further developed my skills by completing several Early Childhood Development courses and eventually becoming an ECD facilitator,” she said.
Mosikare said her combined experience in both private childcare and formal schooling motivated her to compile and publish a book that could serve as a practical guide for educators and caregivers.
“My intention with this book is to share the knowledge and experience I have gained over many years of working with young children, both in daycare and in a school environment. I wanted to create something that could guide new and inexperienced practitioners in understanding the daily structure of a Grade R classroom, while also encouraging learners to develop confidence, discipline, and a love of learning from an early age. This book is also meant to inspire other educators to continue improving their practice in Early Childhood Development. The book is available in English, Sesotho and isiZulu, ensuring accessibility to a wider range of educators, parents and learners across different communities,” she said.
Mosikare also added that the publication journey was both personal and fulfilling, and expressed gratitude to those who supported her along the way.
“I would like to sincerely thank my children and grandchildren for their constant love, patience and encouragement throughout my journey of writing this book. Their support has been a source of strength for me. I am also deeply grateful to the Ratanda community and local school principals who believed in my work and have continued to promote and support this publication. Their encouragement has made this achievement possible,” she said.
