Children’s laughter

Today was the last day of school for Chamberlain High School. Our four high school homes emptied out quickly once the school day was over. Many of the students will be back in a couple of weeks for driver’s ed, transitional living classes or summer work experiences. Kudos to all the staff who work with these students and saw them through to another successful year!

The ten 1st-3rd graders who have made honor roll all year were treated to a movie and supper in Mitchell. I joined Jennie (Student Coordinator) and Celia (Residential Coordinator) to chaperone the students and had a delightful time. The Pirates: Band of Misfits was not exactly a classic that I’ll never forget, but what I will always remember and treasure were the kids’ giggles and laughs at the silly humor. We ate supper at Culver’s, where everyone got to chose from one of 5 children’s meals, and end the outing with a scoop of frozen custard.

Children’s laughter has a magical quality that heals and strengthens the heart.

We have a small bus that was just the right size for our group. The trip takes about a hour each way. Videos entertained for a while, but mostly we started playing guessing games, talking and telling stories. I sat next to first grader, Nevaeh. Spending a couple of hours talking to a seven-year-old grounded me more solidly in the world view of a child. They have more questions than I have answers, but that’s why young minds can soak up so many things so quickly. Hopefully these Native American students will work hard throughout their many years of study, and learn how to enjoy learning.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

0 thoughts on “Children’s laughter”

  1. Congrats to all 10 children who made honor roll!!! WAY TO GO!! I don’t know you but I read all about you on my face book page and let me tell you I’m really proud of each of you as if each of you were my grandchildren. My name is Carolyn Weber, I live in Indiana.

  2. Congratulations everyone! Another school year comes to an end. Nothing like the laughter of children! God Bless…

  3. My high schoolers graduated last year and have moved a few hours away to make an effort in independance. I miss the laughter and giggles we shared over the years. Reading your story brought back wonderful memories. I still watch all the new animated movies to remember that life is about laughter and loving those involved in our life. I love Rio and Madagascar. Your movie sounded like fun. Congratulations on the honor roll and making lasting memories with lots of laughter!!!

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