Silent Witnesses

Today we launched this beautiful book at Elmwood Resthome. Ten children from The Gardens School have been working with 10 elders living in nearby Elmwood Rest Home on a special project called Silent Witnesses. Elders shared stories about treasured objects and the children wrote and illustrated the stories. Many of the elders said they looked forward to the sessions because they were lonely and some beautiful friendships were made along the way.

Danny is European and his student partner is Aaliyah who has Indian heritage. It was moving to see their friendship grow with each meeting. Danny has a talent for art but had stopped drawing. Meeting with Aaliyah, brought his love for art back to life – rest home staff say he’s drawing a lot more. Aaliyah bought Danny an art set with her pocket money and the school invited him to do a drawing workshop with other children. 

Aaliyah said this project has taught her to listen carefully to people when they share because that’s when you can feel their emotion. Wow what a beautiful insight from someone so young.

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