Nursery kids create ‘snippets of happiness’

A community council engaged with its more isolated and vulnerable residents in a unique way over the festive period.

Killearn Community Council (KCC) worked with its local nursery pupils and staff – from Mulberry Bush Montessori, Heron House, Killearn Primary School and Our Little Outdoor Classroom – to create‘snippets of happiness’for nominated residents.

Children planted spring bulbs in pots for distribution with a specially designed postcard, and villagers were asked to suggest names of residents who would particularly benefit.

Many names were put forward and at least 60‘snippets of happiness’were delivered to the doorsteps by the children and the nursery staff.

Fiona Rennie, community council secretary, said:“with winter approaching and lockdown restrictions a way of life, it was felt that receiving a bulb in a pot decorated by local children along with a contact card could help us engage with residents. We see them as ‘conversation starters’and a way for the community to help people feel less lonely or isolated. It’s also a chance for us to provide up-to-date information on initiatives that can assist in these Covid times, using funds from Stirling Council given for this purpose.”

One recipient’s daughter wrote to the community council, saying:“i am writing on behalf of my mother to pass on her thanks for the bowl of spring bulbs which was delivered to her recently. It was a lovely surprise and we look forward to seeing what flowers emerge in the spring. Very many thanks for this delightful idea.”

Fiona continued:“kcc particularly want to thank all four of the local nurseries taking part — Mulberry Bush Montessori, Heron House, Killearn Primary School and Our Little Outdoor Classroom — as well as Mike Gray from Colourful Killearn for sourcing the plant pots, compost, daffodil and crocus bulbs.‘

KCC also distributed Christmas cards made by the children to the people they made pots for.

Fiona added:“we want everyone to think how we can support each other as a community and rather than merely wondering how our neighbour is, ask ourselves if can we reach out and give them a call or pop round to their doorstep with a smile and a hello.”

In 2021 KCC are looking to work with local businesses to find ways of lessening loneliness and isolation in the village. Local businesses or anyone with an idea to help achieve this can contact the community council on contactus@ killearncc.org.uk.