On an exceptionally beautiful day, we had a “”date”” with Yisheng Primary School in Fuxing District, Taoyuan City. Three members from our task force had meticulously prepared for this “”date”” over the past three months, creating a disaster prevention lesson tailored specifically for the children. Upon arrival, the team unloaded their carefully prepared teaching aids and followed the school supervisor to the classroom in an orderly fashion. The entire team immediately caught the curious eyes of the children, who were as excited as if they were seeing new classmates. Little did they know, the team was so nervous about the upcoming lesson that they were sweating profusely.

The bell rang, and the children filed into the classroom, sitting down obediently while staring intently at the people in front of the podium. In the room, the task force members, nervous and fumbling, were setting up for the lesson at the front, while the adorable children at the back gazed with wide, curious eyes. The supervisor stood in the middle, gently introducing the older brothers to the children and explaining the purpose of their visit. Then, the stage was handed over to the team to take the lead.

“Why do we need a map? Who needs to read a map? How do you read a map properly?” Starting with questions related to daily life, the team guided the children to understand the importance of maps. After learning the basics, they then asked: What does the topography on a map represent? Could it indicate any dangers? The big brothers shared several stories about severe disasters caused by typhoons and torrential rains. One notable example was Typhoon Sinlaku in 2008, which caused significant damage in Yisheng Li, washing away and collapsing many slopes and roads. Although the children had never experienced this, their relatives might remember this tragic event in their hometown.

We live on this beautiful land, and our hope is to be kind to the environment and coexist with nature. However, the footprints left by humans inevitably affect the natural ecology, causing nature to fight back. How can we protect the environment and prevent disasters? “Don’t cut down trees recklessly!” “Love the environment!” The children voiced their thoughts innocently. Exactly! This is the awareness of environmental protection we’ve had since childhood. In the mountainous Fuxing District, it is even more important to develop the capacity for “voluntary disaster prevention.” The children looked at us, puzzled. “That means, how can we save ourselves?” the team explained slowly. Preventive measures must be taken before disasters strike. Identifying potential danger zones and working with tribal residents to prioritize disaster responses and assign tasks are essential. This will help cultivate self-help and mutual-help abilities within the community.

With this realization, the kids excitedly discussed what they could do next. Before taking any action, it was essential to fully understand the layout of their living environment. So, the team brought out a pre-made local topographic model and let the kids decorate it. They eagerly planted trees and grass and built their own houses on the model. Even some of the shy and quiet kids got involved, interacting and sharing their thoughts with encouragement. Through this hands-on activity, the children gradually understood the geographic features of their surroundings and the importance of disaster preparedness. The lesson ended happily, with the children not even noticing how quickly the time had passed.

“Do you know how this model was made?” The supervisor led the kids to sit on the ground nearby and began to explain the story behind the lesson and the model. The big brothers of the task force spent their after-class hours discussing the project with the supervisor through messaging apps. They stayed up late cutting materials and assembling the model. Finally, they traveled all the way up the mountain to bring it here. Their dedication is truly commendable. The kids listened quietly, deeply moved. In that moment, silence spoke volumes. Perhaps we are just beginning to understand the land of Fuxing District, but we received so much appreciation and feedback from these children. It reminded us of the importance of wholehearted effort. Even though each step forward may be small, we must take each one with care and determination. We cannot let down these children who have given us their warmth and trust.