Restoring childhood How we help poor children in Cambodia
At Enfants de Klang Leu (EKL), we believe that to truly help poor children in Cambodia, we must address more than just their physical needs. While food and education are vital, a child also needs to play, create, and move to grow into a balanced adult.
In the challenging environment of Klang Leu, many children are forced to grow up too fast. Our Centre provides a sanctuary where they can reclaim their childhood. Through our "Arts, Sports & Games" program, we offer a safe space for expression, joy, and healing.
Our artistic, sporting and recreational programmes reinforce the development of children: they support the learning of Khmer or mathematics, promote the acquisition of psychosocial skills and contribute to the psychological balance of young people facing extreme precariousness.
In the Klang Leu area, children don't really have anywhere to just be children. The streets are their playground, despite the heat, dust and everyday dangers. There is nowhere safe for them to run, jump and let off steam, and at school, sport is a luxury that is virtually non-existent. Therefore, the EKL Centre offers an essential safe haven for these vulnerable children.
Game library and after-school activities Behind the development through play methodology
For children facing poverty or instability, play is a serious and necessary therapy. We utilize a methodology based on development through play to help our beneficiaries build essential life skills.
After-school activities play an essential role in children's social, emotional, and physical development At the EKL Centre, EKL offers a structured set of activities for disadvantaged children, combining sports, creativity, and educational games.
Our program of after-school activities ensures that when the school day ends, the children have a secure place to go. Instead of wandering the neighborhood, they come to EKL to learn, play, and socialize in a supervised environment. It transforms idle time into productive, joyful time, reinforcing the educational and social values we teach daily.
EKL's toy library, which contains over 150 games, is central to our extracurricular activities. Development through play is a central component of this process:
- Free play is an essential component of our curriculum, as it fosters imagination and independence.
- Structured group games are designed to encourage cooperation, language skills, and emotional intelligence.
Sports for children Building strength and spirit
Sports for children is a pillar of our support. Through regular practice of adapted disciplines, they integrate strong values such as respect for rules, team spirit, self-improvement, and learn to manage their emotions.
- Football: Weekly training on a rented pitch to promote team spirit.
- Yoga: A calming practice to develop concentration and balance.
- Swimming: Outdoor pool outings supervised by our volunteers.
- Volleyball, basketball and badminton played freely on our equipped court.
Sports provide an outlet for energy and a way to manage stress. On the field, the children learn that effort leads to progress and that they are part of a supportive team. These moments of collective joy are essential for their psychological well-being. All the necessary sports equipment is provided so that every child can participate fully.
Art & Culture Unleashing imagination with creative activities
Every child has a unique voice, and we want to help them express it. Our volunteers and staff organize various creative activities such as drawing, painting, traditional dance, and crafts. Through our cultural activities, we give children the opportunity to reconnect with their identity, nurture their creativity and rebuild their self-esteem.
Khmer Culture
Children practice traditional dances and songs.
International music and dance
Music is also used as a fun way to learn English.
Art workshops
Theater, photography, and painting are regularly offered by enthusiastic volunteers, exposing children to new cultures.
Manual skills
Crafts, sewing, and handicrafts are beneficial in developing fine motor skills and a sense of responsibility.
Testimonial Bopha and Chenda: rebuilding themselves through play
Bopha and Chenda, two 12-year-old sisters, live in extreme poverty. Before they arrived at the EKL Centre, their daily lives were marked by family instability and the dangers of the street. Their first steps at the EKL Centre were difficult, marked by anger and defensive aggression.Sport and play have been powerful levers for transformation. Today, with their boots on their feet on Sundays, they flourish on the football pitch. In a caring environment, they have learned to channel their energy, respect the rules and trust others. Anger has given way to laughter and cooperation, allowing them to grow together as part of the group. Spread the word about us to raise awareness among those around you. Help us bring smiles to the Enfants de Klang Leu. Every child has the right to play, create and flourish. Your support is vital to sustaining our programmes, which transform lives on a daily basis. Make a donation to fund equipment and field rentals. Become a partner to support EKL's work in the long term.
Key figures Our impact in one glance
Get involved Help us keep the fun alive
Equipment wears out, art supplies run dry, and we always need energy to keep these programs running. You can support this vital aspect of our mission.
Donate equipment: We always need balls, art supplies, and games.
Volunteer your talent: Are you an artist, a coach, or simply someone who loves to play? Come share your passion.
By supporting our Arts & Sports program, you are giving these children the gift of joy and the skills to succeed.
Support our activities
