What did you want to be when you were a child?
Some children want to be teachers; some dream of becoming police officers, engineers, nurses, artists, doctors, the list is long and plenty.
Whatever your child’s dreams are, support them. Never discourage children from exploring and reaching their goals; no dream is ever too big or too little.
In Compostela Valley, we met Clark, a 10-year-old science whiz.
“When I grow up, I want to be an astronomer,” the 5th grader said in Filipino. “I would like to observe other planets, galaxies, and stars.”
His favorite planet, of course, is Earth. “Because this is where we live; without Earth, we won’t survive,” explained Clark. “So we shouldn’t harm our environment.”
At school, Clark advises classmates not to burn plastics and rubber, so as not to contribute to climate change. He also practices waste segregation and recycling.
During breaks, the young astronomer enjoys drawing different constellations and mapping the world -- using a small globe in his classroom.
“My favorite subjects are science and mathematics because it’s fun,” Clark said, smiling.
A boy’s life
Clark grew up with a brother, four years his junior.
“I teach him what to do when there are emergencies,” said Clark. “I tell him what to do in case of earthquakes, flash floods, or landslides.”
Clark is among the students Save the Children trains on Climate Change Awareness and Disaster Preparedness.
Aside from looking out for his baby brother, Clark also helps out with household chores. Every day, he wakes up at 4am to feed their livestock and pets.
His family has chickens, dogs, and cats. They used to have one pig, Clark shared, but it died of an illness.
“We should also love our pets and livestock so they may live peacefully,” he said. “In times of emergencies or evacuation, we should also protect animals.”
After caring for the family pets, Clark then proceeds to watering their plants and picking spices from their garden. “When I have time, I wash clothes, wash the dishes, and sweep,” he added.
The young astronomer’s wish is simple, “for my parents, my pets, and myself to live happily.”
To learn the do’s & don’t during emergencies, watch Clark’s video.
Help us train more children; they should know what to do before, during, and after emergencies.
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