Saturday, 16th November 2024

Registration: 2.45 pm; Activity: 3.00 pm – 5.30 pm

Mistra Bay

Mistra Bay

For children aged 8 to 10 years and their families

Animated reading, Creative writing, Reflective hands-on activity

Maltese and English

The National Literacy Agency, in collaboration with Spiritual Development in Schools, organised the ninth session of animated reading, creative writing and reflection in the programme entitled ‘With Reading and Writing I find a Beloved Space’ for children 8–10 years old and their families/guardians.

These sessions of animated reading in Maltese and English from the book Spazju għal Qalbi—Beloved Space’ by author Silvana Cardona are taking place in various open spaces in Malta and Gozo. They are an excellent opportunity for children to practise reading and creative writing through imaginative and reflective activities that help them pray. Throughout these sessions, the children will be provided with resources in Maltese and English to help them express themselves.

There’s something magical about experiencing a story in the place where its essence comes alive. Reading and acting out the story ‘Hold a Pebble and Let it Go‘ at the serene Mistra Bay, Mellieħa on Saturday, 16th November 2024, brought a unique touch to every word and action, creating an unforgettable experience for all. 📖🌞

A wonderful gathering of children, families, and a group of Altar boys joined us for engaging Maltese and English sessions. Together, they immersed themselves in storytelling, mime, and a reflective prayer space surrounded by the beauty of the bay. Families cherished this special time, writing creatively and releasing pebbles into the sea—a symbolic act of letting go of their burdens and forgiving those who had hurt them. 🪨💙

What the Children Said

The pebble activity deeply resonated with the children:

  • 🗣️ “I felt like my forgiveness floated away with the pebble.”
  • 💭 “When I let it go, it was like my heart felt lighter.”
  • 🙏 “I forgave my friend for hurting my feelings—it felt good to let it out.”
  • 🌟 “I was holding onto something sad, but now it feels like it’s gone.”
  • 🕊️ “I feel free, like the pebble took my worries with it.”
  • 😊 “It made me happy to think about forgiving someone.”
Reflections from Family members

The parents and carers were equally moved by the experience:

  • 🙏 “The pebble activity helped me think about forgiveness in my own life too—it’s something we all need.”
  • 💭 “It was beautiful to watch my child reflect and share their feelings during the prayer space.”
  • 🕊️ “The prayer space was a chance for me to pause and reflect alongside my child—it felt like a blessing.”
Creative Writing: Expressing Forgiveness

The creative writing activity gave both children and families the chance to express their feelings about forgiveness through heartfelt words and stories. ✍️💞

This beautiful blend of storytelling, reflection, and creativity at Mistra Bay reminds us of the power of narratives to inspire connection, healing, and growth. 🌟💙

This event is part of the With Reading and Writing, I find a Beloved Space programme.