Tropicalia Island

FUNDACIÓN RANA

Closely linked to spending quality time, feeling part of a community—a tribe—is an unquestionable human need.

From the moment a child is born, feeling part of a group, of society, of their surroundings… is the first step toward developing a sense of protection, security, and affection. Why?

• Because knowing that we are part of a system helps us build an identity and answer the big questions: “Who are we?, “Where do we come from?, “What are we part of?”… along with a whole set of reflections that shape each person.
• Because it is important to have an emotional support network in times of confusion and difficulty; having close, trusted people who can serve as a refuge in the face of adversity is essential.
• Because we learn through contact with others. We internalize learning (social norms, communication, individual rights, etc.) thanks to the experiences we live with our environment and with the people who are part of it.
• Because safety means being accompanied and feeling accompanied, achieving both physical and emotional protection.
• Because understanding feelings and emotions, and encouraging their validation, arises from life experiences and shared moments.

Etymologically and culturally, the concept of tribe means living accompanied, connected, and protected. This experience is crucial for growing and developing in a whole and free way. Along with the importance of children having the skills to ask for help in situations of sexual abuse, it constitutes a key element in setting boundaries against this issue.

In the story of  Tropicalia Island, we can identify two major tribes: the community of Tropicalia and Nil’s family.

On the island, Nil discovers a community made up of the Banyadorus Petitus and the Banyadorus Grandus. These fun and curious characters convey a sense of belonging to visitors, introduce them to their daily lives, and explain the characteristic features of their land. They encourage a sense of constant learning and support Nil and Mango in the face of adversity. Tribes, like a house or a home, symbolize safe spaces of protection, where children live calmly, protected, and always accompanied by adults.

Nil’s family is his reference environment, his space of comfort and protection. They share moments of closeness and bonding: waking up with his mother, a day at the beach filled with activities he enjoys… In short, a context of affection where he feels safe to talk about his dreams. Talking about dreams, as well as feelings and emotions, or expressing the need for help, happens mostly in these warm and welcoming environments.

Today, we find tribes in families, schools, leisure and free-time spaces, sports clubs, and more. But the most important thing is to identify which context of protection exists for each child.

After reading, what questions can we ask ourselves?

• The Banyadorus Petitus form a great group with Nil and Mango… who would you visit Isla Tropicalia with?
• How does Nil feel when he is with his family?
• If you could form a tribe with five people from school… who would you invite?
• Who would you build a hut with in Tropicalia?

How can we encourage children to strengthen this sense of belonging?

An essential aspect, as discussed in the section focused on the importance of belonging, is to include children in family dynamics and enjoy moments together at home. Why not build a hut in a corner of your home? It could be your special place for storytelling, a calm corner, a cozy space to tell jokes, and more.