What+connecting+kids+is+about

** WHAT ** Connecting kids is a community based project to connect communities which might not else have the opportunity to interact. It aims to foster community relationships and ultimately provide individuals the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life

** WHO ** The project currently targets primary schools in the Havelock and Flaxmere areas

** WHEN ** The programme kicks off in December 2010

** ABOUT ** Connecting kids is an IT buddy system where kids can enter an on-line world of communication and build friendships connecting kids is aimed at building relationships in the community. Its purpose is to have children interact through e-mail and wiki.

At the beginning of March there will have a fun day at splash planet where the children will come together with local sports celebrities. They will enjoy a day together interacting.

Connecting kids is about connecting communities through communication. As a teacher in Havelock North Primary and a child brought up in Flaxmere I have entertained the thought of bringing together two communities that have had a huge influence in my life.
 * BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT **

Flaxmere was where I learnt to be great at sports. It was a place to enjoy the 80’s and 90’s. It was where I would ride my chopper bike with my mate standing on the back forks. Where I would pay for the paper with 1 and 2 cent coins. Where the summers were hot and the rivers called to us. Where I chased my dog and family around the yard. Where people do their best. Where I was a child in a family.
 * Henare O'Brien**

Havelock is the place I learnt to be a teacher. Where I transitioned from flatting and the single life to a home and married life. Where people smile as they stride past with friends and coffee. Where the hills and homes flow together. Where people do their best. Where I am a father in a family.

With these wonderful experiences it has naturally led me to connect the two communities. As a teacher and knowing children, connecting kids was born. The title is the project.

Connecting kids purpose is children connecting from different communities to see communalities in each other’s lives. Henare O’Brien

hhobrien23@hotmail.com


 * Kate Bull **

Havelock North has always been home to me. It’s where I grew up as a 90’s girl going rollerblading and having spice girl parties. I went to school at Havelock North Primary and Intermediate and started a love for sport, dancing and creativity. Woodford House was then a place for new friendships, focused learning and a chance to grow and dream big for what’s to come. It was also where I developed my leadership skills as head girl in 2007.

Since leaving the cute little Village I’ve been privileged to experience life not only outside of Havelock North but New Zealand. Oxfordshire, England was where I spent the year 2008 as gap student at Bloxham School. Way of life was different here. The people sounded different, the school was different and it was a lot colder. Otago University was my next stop. Things were different here again, just as cold as England but mixing studying, partying and living with 200 people took some some getting used to.

However, for me, having new experiences and therefore connecting with new people is what makes life fun and exciting. I live life having love for all people. I know people are people no matter where you go, who you are or where you come from. For me, connecting Kids is about creating this in our community.

