The teams at Krousar Thmey quickly realised that very young children, or deeply traumatised ones needed special care. This led to the idea of developing a structure based on the family unit in which the child has a supportive dad and mum.

Each couple of Khmer parents, carefully vetted, trained and monitored monthly by Krousar Thmey, brings up children from the foundation as well as their own children in their homes. Just as in the permanent protection centres, the children go to the nearest state school. Daily activities serve to enrich family life.

The homes are always in villages near big cities, but away from the centre and its hustle and bustle. The grounds are always extensive enough to afford the family enough space for an orchard, a vegetable plot and some poultry and pig rearing. There is no obvious outward sign that gives away households’ involvement with Krousar Thmey. These children have to feel integrated in their families and in their villages so that they can gradually put their past behind them and regain a normal life.

The intimacy of a small household, the warmth and love of a home, enable many children to regain their carefree attitude.