Freedom Day
As South Africa celebrates Freedom Day on April 27th, it is a time to reflect on the progress that has been made in the country over the past decades, but also to acknowledge the challenges that still remain. Despite the … Continued
Press release: HealingLeaves condemns the decision by Gauteng DSD to cut funding for child protective services
HealingLeaves would like to add our voice to those of numerous NGOs in Gauteng strongly condemning the decision by the Gauteng Department of Social Development (DSD) to cut funding for social welfare services by R216-million. Welfare services for persons with … Continued
Childhood Trauma – A Significant Violation of Human Rights
As we commemorate South African Human Rights Day on 21 March, it is important to reflect on the traumatic experiences that many children have endured in the country. Childhood trauma is a significant violation of human rights and can have … Continued
Childhood Trauma: Are Children the New Oppressed Class?
Children are often thought of as the most innocent and vulnerable members of society. However, when we examine the way in which children are treated and the systems in place that govern their lives, it becomes clear that they are … Continued
Understanding The Impact of Trauma on Your Child
Trauma-informed training for parents is becoming increasingly important in today’s society. Trauma is defined as an event or series of events that can cause physical, emotional, psychological, or spiritual harm. It can be caused by a wide range of events, … Continued
Trauma-Informed Parenting is More Important than Ever
Most people can agree that the last 3 years were like no other experience we’ve encountered. COVID-19 stampeded through communities leaving businesses and schools closed in its path. Families suffered the loss of loved ones, loss of income and in … Continued
The Importance of Self-soothing for Children.
Self-soothing (self-regulation or grounding) is the ability to manage intense feelings or emotions (positive or negative), sensations and thoughts. It is a very important skill for all of us to have, but children are not born with this skill. Why … Continued
Trauma Among Children Who Are Victims of Violence
Both the International Day of Non-Violence (since 2007) and World Mental Health Day (since 1992) are coming up in the next 10 days. Yet, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 40 million children aged below 15 still fall victim … Continued
World Humanitarian Day – It Takes a Village to Support People in Crisis
There is a saying that goes: It takes a village to raise a child. In years gone by, community living was a given. Historically, people lived in groups or tribes for safety, socialization, and shared resources. Our lives have been … Continued
Intergenerational Solidarity
Taking care of the generations that come after us. Every year the 12th of August is celebrated as International Youth Day, and this year the theme is Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages. The truth is that all … Continued