Can you help 14 children learn good schoolwork habits and feel the pride of accomplishment that so many of us simply take for granted?
The Belair Homework Club helps children in Grades 1 to 6 (ages 6-12) to learn good homework practices and have early success in learning. This encourages them to feel positive about school and about getting an education. For one hour twice a week the Club provides a calm and supportive learning environment for as many as 14 children, which is all the room can accommodate.
The Club has many benefits for the children besides improved schoolwork:
- furnished with tables and chairs, the club is a good place to do home- work as some children do not have a place to work at home
- children learn life skills by seeking help, by helping each other, and by getting along with each other
- children learn co-operation as the older ones help the younger ones with reading
- everyone gets a healthy snack
- there is access to computers for learning games.
The Belair Homework Club is helped by CCHS staff and placement students and by community volunteers and parents. The Rotary Club of West Ottawa and building owner Dave Houston provide the room. But the Club still needs supplies for all ages, especially the youngest children:
- simple readers, such as the “I Can Read” books, will encourage children with early success
- computer learning games such as “Reader Rabbit”, “Jump Start”, and “Freddie the Fish”
- workbooks (the Club keeps costs down by laminating the pages so many children can do the exercises)
- snacks such as juice boxes and granola bars
- papers, crayons, pencils, pens, notebooks.
Can you adopt a few children to encourage their natural interest in learning and help them build a foundation for their future? Call Wanda Romaniec (722-4000) about adoption.
Carlington Community and Health Services is a non-profit community-based health centre, providing health and social services, committed to the well-being of our community, promoting social, economic, physical, mental and environmental health, responsible to the community through an elected Board of Directors. Our staff and volunteers work together to achieve these goals. For information on becoming a volunteer or a member, please call us at 722-4000.