Penryn’s learners get a floury lesson

Penryn Prep came up with a practical lesson to teach its grade sevens about human rights this year. Jason van Staden, senior prep head of academics, devised the “flour baby” project to celebrate Human Right Day last Thursday.

Each grade seven learner had to partner with another learner in the grade, and then take care of a flour baby, a small bag of flour, together. The project lasted from February 1 until March 15.

Van Staden explained that all people are made from the same ingredients – but decorated differently.

“Teaching is about getting our scholars to explore and teach themselves and others, without even knowing they are actually moulding themselves into extraordinary people,” he added.

The pupils were exposed to different human rights on a practical level throughout the project. All the flour babies were treated the same and discrimination was prohibited, teaching them equality.

The “parents” were free to express their religion, belief and opinion as they could pick any partner, even two boys or two girls, as “parentage” was not frowned upon. The dignity of the parents was respected and the babies were not abused.

The babies were taken home to be cared for at each parent’s home and were allowed in all the classes. Some were even exposed to the cultural and sport activities, demonstrating the right to access to adequate housing and education.

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All the babies were given a name and a birthmark (stamp) that made them South African citizens. “Healthcare was on standby and the babies were all looked after,” Van Staden added.

“Some looked like a huge band aid after the completion of the project.”

The learners also frequently stated their frustrations with the project – and had the right to express their feelings throughout the month.

“Our parents struggled in the beginning with neglecting their babies, however, as time went on they learned to love their babies and not to maltreat or neglect them. Oh, and the 20 per cent project mark played a big part too,” he added.

“My wish is that our younger generation will realise that they have the power and choice to advance the cause of human rights with courage and determination.

“We must also understand that our human rights do not require us to agree on everything. These rights only require that we do not prohibit others the freedom we claim for ourselves,” Van Staden concluded.

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