The first three years of life are critical for building a secure attachment to a primary caregiver, where the child feels safe to explore the world around them, knowing they have a trusted adult to return to when needed. Research shows that a secure attachment is crucial for healthy emotional, social, and cognitive development.
During this time, children develop the way they view relationships and operate socially, begin to learn their cultural identity, and develop an important sense of belonging. Children who form a secure attachment often display stronger self-esteem, emotional intelligence, better social skills, and greater resilience (Howe, 2011; Bowlby, 1997).
Open Arms has always worked with the aim of helping orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable children grow up with the love of a family. Understanding the importance of attachment, our Community-Based Care programme was introduced to help babies stay with their families so that vital bonds can be formed between infant and caregiver during these critical first years, allowing the child to develop confidently, with a sense of belonging within a family and community—a fundamental human need.
When Japhet’s mother was eight months pregnant, she developed cerebral malaria. She was admitted to intensive care, where doctors decided to deliver Japhet by caesarean section. Tragically, Japhet’s mother died a few weeks later.
Without hesitation, Japhet’s grandmother took on the care of her grandson. However, they were already struggling to provide for their four other children on the little money her husband earned selling newspapers, so taking on the care of a newborn was particularly challenging, especially affording the formula milk he needed to survive. Grieving the loss of her daughter, Japhet’s grandmother was nevertheless determined to care for her grandson.
Thankfully, Japhet and his family were referred to Open Arms through Social Welfare and were immediately enrolled on the Community-Based Care programme. Thanks to the support they now receive, ensuring Japhet has the nutrition and resources he needs to grow up healthy, Japhet’s grandmother can focus her time on caring for him, allowing a wonderful bond to develop.
The Open Arms team regularly visit Japhet to monitor his progress. The secure attachment he has formed with his grandmother is clear, and today, at 14 months old, Japhet is thriving —not just physically, but socially, emotionally, and cognitively too. He particularly loves playing games and imitating other children and family members, which is helping him develop healthy relationships and build his self confidence!
Thanks to Community-Based Care, children like Japhet are given the chance to grow up surrounded by love, belonging, and hope for a brighter future.
Through donations, sponsorship, fundraising, spreading awareness, or volunteering your support really can make a world of difference!
Your donation will help children in Malawi grow up healthy with the love of a family
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