By Danielle Kutchel
Lucky Cranbourne kindergarteners have been given some insights into how they can do their bit to save the world, thanks to a special excursion.
Ten kids from Station House Early Years Learning Centre popped in to the Backpacks 4 Vic Kids (B4VK) op shop on Camms Road on Monday 10 May to learn more about volunteering and charity.
“We thought that we could create something special to teach children about donating, volunteering, buying second hand, basically helping to save our planet and understanding the importance of recycling, re-using and reducing waste,” explained op shop manager Suzie Brooking.
The kids were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the shop and got to meet one of the friendly volunteers, Kerry, while Ms Brooking explained how the shop works.
“I told them that B4VK helps children in need who go to live in another home,” she explained.
“I told them that they get a backpack full of things such as clothes, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a soft toy, a blanket and much more [and that] people give things to the shop that they no longer want or need, and we sell these things in the shop to make money for B4VK.”
The visiting children were asked to bring one item from home to donate to the shop, in an activity that Station House educational leader Tilly Edwards said was a highlight.
“They thought about what they don’t need anymore and could give to a better home,” she said.
“I think they learned what we can do with things when we don’t need them anymore, like giving them to someone who might like them.”
Some of the kids brought in old toys that they said they no longer played with, and others brought in clothes that no longer fit.
Ms Brooking explained how these items could be upcycled – for example, making a teddy out of a t-shirt that doesn’t fit – or donated for others to enjoy.
While the kids were thrilled by the excursion, a special surprise at the end of the tour was extra exciting.
The shop runs a program called the Second Chances Rehoming Program, which gives visiting kids the chance to adopt a plush toy in need of extra love.
“The concept behind this is that these toys need extra love and a new home; they are a little worn or may have a crooked neck or marks on them but they can be loved just as much as a toy that is in great condition,” Ms Brooking said.
“Children are so natural in their love for a teddy, not seeing the imperfections, and they leave with a smile on their face and their toy held tight!”
Each child from Station House chose a toy as they left the shop in what Ms Brooking called “the perfect end to the excursion”.
Ms Brooking and Ms Edwards said the kids loved their visit.
“The children who visited us are now honorary B4VK Buddies!” Ms Brooking said.
She added she is considering how to run the program for other age groups and schools.
Station House Early Years Learning Centre is partnering with the B4VK op shop and charity to contribute to the cause, with a dollar from every booking at the childcare centre this month going towards the charity.
The Learning Centre is also taking donations for B4VK.
