Ruth’s Story

Ruth’s Story

17-year-old Ruth was nervous and utterly overwhelmed by the newfound responsibility of motherhood when she first attended the Pebbles Project Bonding and Attachment Caregiver Training workshop.

The Pebbles Project First Thousand Days (FTD) educator and trainer noticed that Ruth and baby Scarlett were both tense. She began the class with relaxation exercises and encouraged Ruth to practice the bonding and attachment behaviours demonstrated in class.

She could see that Ruth was making an effort; she was always on time for every class and did not miss any of the classes. Ruth started opening up more, asking a lot of questions, and engaging with baby Scarlett. She completed all of her homework exercises. As Ruth’s confidence began to blossom, she began to see a change in her baby’s behaviour as well.

The FTD educator and trainer is thrilled with their progress: “It’s exhilarating to see the positive transformation! Ruth has blossomed into a confident mother, and baby Scarlett is relaxed and sleeping better. The bond between the two is so precious.” Ruth’s excitement about the workshop inspired another mother to follow through on attending all the classes.

With the support and guidance of the FTD educator and trainer, Ruth formed a trusting relationship with her baby. The Pebbles Project First Thousand Days (FTD) Programme promotes loving and nurturing interactions between mother and child, leading to optimal development in the first year of life.

The Pebbles Project Early Care and Education Programme (ECEP) supports children from conception to the age of five through two sub-programmes: the First Thousand Days (FTD) Programme (0–2.5 years) and the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Programme (2.5–5 years). The ECEP is delivered at ECD centres located on Pebbles’ partner farms.

Ruth’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and support, transformation is possible. By taking small, consistent steps, Ruth has gained the confidence to embrace her new role as a mother. She is not only nurturing baby Scarlett’s growth, but she is growing herself, showing that every challenge faced can lead to personal strength and resilience.

*The names of the beneficiaries have been changed to protect their identities.

*This story captures a period in the beneficiary’s journey during their involvement with Pebbles Project and reflects their circumstances at the time it was written.