This article is from page 33 of the 2008-05-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 33 JPG
A NEW initiative which encourages young children to do their homework is proving a phenomenal success in Shannon.
The local family resource centre has set up a Kool Kids Club, which is also known as a Homework Club.
It is the first time that the centre, which was set up eight years ago, has organised an initiative like this. It is also one of three local groups in Shannon nominated for the AIB Bet- ter Ireland Awards, which presents an opportunity to win €10,000.
The club runs two afternoons every week, on Wednesdays and Thurs-
days. It is funded by the Health Serv- ice Executive through the traveller health initiative and is organised by Debbie O’Halloran-Browne.
The co-ordinator of the fam- ily resource centre, Marie Rowland, pointed out that it was the children themselves who saw the need for this facility.
‘An evaluation was done with chil- dren in our activity club and from that evaluation we decided to run a pilot programme. It is very success- ful. It is very well attended,’ said Ms Rowland.
On arrival, the children are provid- ed with healthy snacks, after which they do their homework and then
play games. This ensures the project is a combination of education, health NCO Moot U Kee
“They are encouraged with their work and are supported by a number of volunteers,” said Ms Rowland.
“We find that the children are here from 3.15pm wanting to do their homework,” she said.
‘This is the first time the family re- source centre has done this and the feedback in the local community has been great,” she added.
Given that this initiative is support- ed by the Traveller Health Initiative, integration is key to its success.
“Tt is all about integration,” said Ms Rowland.
Fifteen young children attend the club and other spaces could be made available if additional volunteers are KOMEDI KCC
SUsloeel elem mclen enc tl bap DON senercam Vole unteers to assist them with their activities. Full training in childcare protection will be provided to volun- teers, who will be just asked to com- mit to a few hours a week.
Anyone interested in _ helping out should contact Debbie on 061 Uroue
SRO VOlrem Kem NsleROllomsmsNewAUEs maior ter Ireland Awards, text SHANNON, followed by B to 53099. The voting lines opened on May 6 and remain active until June 6.