The Wonder-ful Trip

Students will use their learning based on the novel "Wonder' by R. J. Palacio to promote kindness in the community. They will apply what they have learned during a day-long field trip in the community where they will participate in random acts of kindness to help thank members of the community, help children in difficult situations, and give up their time to spend with the elderly.

Update (May 26, 2017)

On Thursday, we made out Birthday bags to give to the Iris Kirby home. We wanted to ensure that every child could have a party and a cake on their special day, so we included some lovely items to help them celebrate.

We also made paper flowers, cards and cookies to prepare for our trip!

Update (May 26, 2017)

We went on a full day trip to spread kindness in our community. We were inspired to be kind and embrace differences based on the book, "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio.

Our first stop was to the Mount Pearl City Hall where we were treated to a tour and a chance to sit in the Mayor's chair. We dropped off cookies to say thank you for all that they do.

Update (May 26, 2017)

Our second stop was to the Iris Kirby House. This is a secure place for women and children. We made birthday bags with cake, icing, decorations, a greeting card and a loot bag because we feel that every child deserves a party on their special day. We also dropped off pillows and a baby bag to help those in need.

Update (May 26, 2017)

Our third stop was to the Hillcrest Estates Retirement Home. We made paper flowers and handed them to residents. The students loved their time here and they were all very touched by the stories that were shared with them.

They visited multiple rooms and heard stories of days gone by, of how life has changed over the years, and about family far away. Some talked about sports, some asked questions about their school lives, and some just sat and visited. Some students were given tokens to take home, and they were pretty emotional when they left. They all decided that they wanted to go back again!

Update (May 26, 2017)

The final stop of the day was to the Perlin Building to visit and meet people with exceptionalities. We were entertained by some awesome lip syncs, got to decorate cupcakes, saw buttons being made and received a very special gift at the end.

The clients at the centre make buttons for different occasions. I was asked if we had anything in particular to put on a button, and I decided to draw a button based on the book's illustrations. It was beautiful to see the joy and responsibility shown by the clients working there while making our buttons.

The students loved their time here and were very sad to say goodbye!

Update (May 26, 2017)

The students came back to school excited to share their buttons with their peers, and talk about what they had seen and experienced. They were so proud of their day, and I was very happy that they had the opportunity to learn things that cannot be taught in a classroom.