As reported in previous postings, there is a significant proportion of orphans and vulnerable children in Guyana's under 18 population:- UNICEF surveys estimate about 11%.
While the orphanage was well run, with dedicated staff who commit to their work, for 39 years in the case of the matron, the low staff numbers mean that children lack the individual attention necessary for emotional development.
The children were all well fed and clothed. There were plenty of toys and play facilities. The staff were pleasant and patient with the children.
As recommended, we brought a selection of picture books and simple readers, but the children were far too excited and full of sugar to settle to listen, so we played group singing games, then went into the garden area.
A couple of us were allowed to visit the nursery where the babies and toddlers were being bathed, one at a time, and then settled for afternoon naps in rows of cots.
It was here that the realisation dawned that each child has no significant adult in their lives to give them the unconditional love and affection of a parent. I had to go to a quiet corridor to recover myself.
I can understand why travellers and those who work abroad in poorer countries sometimes return home with an adopted orphaned child.
Talking through, rationalising, theorising and resolving one's own actions are needed- otherwise anyone could be easily overwhelmed by the enormity of such problems.
Our return back to our apartments was much quieter than the journey out.
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