Who got more of a kick out of the visit of popular Bulldogs’ winger Jacob Kiraz to students at St Martha’s Strathfield Out of School Hours Care service?
Centre coordinator Alanna Germanos said the recent visit by their sporting hero inspired the children and linked their love of play and sport with emotional and spiritual health.
“Our kids are massive sports fans and Jacob spent a full hour with them, answering their questions, signing his autograph and playing a game of touch footy,” she said.
“He was growing a moustache and told them the story of Movember, raising awareness of men’s health, and explained the importance of looking after our mental and physical wellbeing.
“The children asked him how he remains positive after negative comments and feedback, being so much in the spotlight, and he said it’s by praying, going to church, and spending time with his family, friends and teammates who all support each other.
“It also happened to be World Kindness Day, and he strongly encouraged them to show gratitude and be kind to one another.”
Operated by Sydney Catholic Schools Early Childhood Services, the centre delivers high quality before and after school care for St Martha’s Catholic Primary School Strathfield.
The centre serves those from kindergarten to year six, through nutritious meals, homework help, and an indoor and outdoor play-based learning program, along with faith formation.
SCSECS faith formation officer Bernadette Bridle says all the activities created and offered for before and after school care are fun play-based, recreational activities linked to the church’s liturgical year.
“Many centres, like St Martha’s, are using these and also extending them, in line with the interests of the particular children in their care,” she said.
Germanos feels strongly about promoting the Catholic faith within the service.
“We strive to encourage our children to be involved in learning about their emotions, how to explore their thoughts and feelings, and to trust and connect with God through prayer,” she said.
“A big focus at Strathfield this term was mental health aligned with our Catholic faith and being able to intertwine those to lift our spirits.
“We also have a prayer space which we change throughout the year to follow the liturgical calendar, so the green cloth covering for Ordinary Time has been changed for Advent.”
