North Brisbane Corps finds helping kids is child’s play
The children were intent listening to Brian Andrew in the playground. (Photo supplied by North Brisbane Corps)
Preparing children for success and significance is the purpose behind a new playground at The Salvation Army’s North Brisbane Corps that was officially opened on Sunday, 25 November.
Brian Andrew, Christian storyteller, author and speaker whose book I Grow in Grandad’s Garden is the inspiration behind the playground, spoke during the morning church service at the corps, before cutting the ribbon at the playground’s opening. He was helped by Lexxie Desmond from the corps.
During the opening, Brian explained the “4 Stop Spots” in the corners of the playground. They are a direct reflection of the spots mentioned in his book and are inspired by his own garden in south-east Queensland where he walks with his grandchildren.
Both in the playground and in the book, the spots are designed to prepare children for emotional and spiritual growth and significance in the world today.
Readers of the book and visitors to the playground can, “take a break at the Think and Thank Seat which shows us the value of Gratitude and helps overcome complaining; the Let Go Log shows us the value of Forgiveness which helps overcome hurts; the Cross Over Corner shows us the value of Courage which helps overcome fears; and the Dream Table shows us the value of Generosity which helps overcome selfishness,” explains Brian.
At each stop spot in the playground, interactive questions and activities provide opportunities to communicate with children about spiritual and emotional topics on a level they can both understand and be challenged by.
“It’s a great missional opportunity to engage with children and could help provide a bridge from some of our programs into the life of the church,” said Captain Donna Todd, North Brisbane Corps Officer with her husband, Captain Craig Todd.
“As a church, we wanted to provide families with more than just ‘play equipment’. We wanted to use this space as a ministry for God, to provide families with a place that could be used for them to spend quality time with their kids and to utilise the 4 Stop Spots to speak life and positive encouragement into their kid's lives.
“This will also be a great place for any groups we have visiting us during the week, such as Mainly Music and junior youth group, as well as linking in families from our community to come and enjoy the facilities we have available.”
For more information, go to www.grandadsgarden.com.au
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