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Children’s Programs
Children’s Programs
Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge is about children and animals coming together, helping each other to heal, and support each other in the process of positive change.
There are many children who are facing difficult lives. Some of the issues which impact on their lives are bullying, a lack of self-confidence, families with parents who are no longer able to be together, have an illness that limits their opportunities. There are many more issues. I’m sure you know what I mean. Children should have a happy, fulfilling life offering a safe place where they can learn and grow.
At Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge we do not make judgment, but rather, offer support to these children (plus other people in their lives) thus assisting them in gaining the skills needed to make wise decisions and gain personal growth.
We aim to provide knowledge, a warm safe environment and importantly a philosophy which Gillian adhered to. This philosophy is full of love, guidance, limits, opportunities, fun, respect, consequences, self-belief, thoughtfulness and simplicity. Importantly we aim to create positive change in these children’s lives.
Initially these programmes will be held on a “visit to the farm” basis, then later, as we grow, we hope to have a home where children can come and stay then spend more time learning and growing.
GRB is fortunate in having the use of a beautiful old world farm with a variety of farm animals. Many of these animals have faced times that most living creatures should never have to face, fortunately things have changed for them, their wounds are healing and they are now willing to be part of Gill’s programme.
This is a page focusing on the children, for information about the farm animals. Please go to Farm Friends to learn more.
Gillian's Rainbow Bridge - 2018 Programs - Coming soon
.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Things To Remember - Things To Think About:
Remember when you visit us, or any other farm, it is important to wear the correct clothing. This includes, strong, water proof foot wear, old outside clothing, and a hat to protect you from the weather. Also you may need a water proof coat or sun protection/sun screen. If you are coming to Gill’s farm, be a responsible person and remember to have everything ready for the day.
.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Other information about Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge include;
The following Principles were;
Developed: In June 2012
Compiled by: Annette: Gill’s mum.
Manners
For example:
While the use of manners may appear trivial it, is important to create a respectful and thoughtful attitude to all at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge.
Respect
This is a given-respect for all people and animals at all times.
Respect to all property.
Laughter
There must be lots of fun and laughter at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge.
However be respectful of others and don’t laugh at their expense.
Contribute
It is important that everyone tries to contribute. This helps take the load away from just a few people. We all have wonderful skills to share and there are many things we can still learn.
Acknowledge
It is important to acknowledge people’s skills, abilities and contribution at all times. This helps to build self-worth and confidence.
Questions
It is important to allow children to ask questions.
While this can be taxing at times it does allow children to develop and gain knowledge. However we also need to follow our principle about respect to others too.
Take Part
Allow children to take part in all sorts of activities.
It doesn’t matter if it’s cooking a cake, building a fence, cleaning out the animal houses, we learn a lot about others when doing things together. Also this helps us to work beside others.
Give Explanation
Give explanations as to why something is happening
Whether it is about something dangerous or why they shouldn’t have done something, it helps both children and adults to understand why you are asking them to do a particular thing.
Listen
It is important to listen to others.
It is important to listen to what children are trying to tell us or what they have to contribute. Also children need to listen to others too.
Actions and Consequences
Teach children that they are responsible for their actions.
So if they choose to do a particular thing, be it good or bad, there will be an outcome, a consequence.
Cleanliness
We all need to be clean to stay healthy.
Children, animals and adults all need to have their basic health need met. At Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge we expect all creatures to have clean and fresh food, water and bedding at all times.
At the same time, we must respect others personal levels of cleanliness. Being extreme in either direction can cause stress to others and oneself. Be thoughtful.
A question for you! Is it useful making a big issue about how tidy a child’s bedroom is?
How to cope in this tough wide world
This is one I may not have taught my children how to manage well. I will work on this.
Comments from a close friend. Few of us ever feel we have taught our children how to manage well. However it is something we can all work on. Thankyou Jane for your input.
Don’t complicate things
Life does not need to be complicated to be fulfilling and pleasurable.
Keep things simple. This creates a clear understanding of something and makes it easier for everyone to understand. Think about why things become more complicated and is it really useful.
Possessions
At the farm of Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge there will be lots of things for everyone to share, keeping in mind our principles about respects etc.
When at the farm everyone is expected to share, however it is important that we are all entitled to have our own personal possessions which, if we choose, do not have to be shared. It is important that we do not have to give up everything, and that it is OK to have our own special treasures.
Equality
Try to remember all people and animals are needed to create the whole picture. We all have something to contribute.
It is important to remember that no one is better or less valuable than anyone else. We all have skills and abilities. We will help you to find your special skills.
Build confidence in others
This applies to children, animals and adults.
At the farm we focus on building self-confidence. As leader/tutor one of your key roles is to acknowledge the skills, effort and willingness to contribute (plus lots more), no matter how small or large. Be an observer, notice what is happening.
Decision making
Making decisions, then following them through, is a key factor to helping create self confidence
Support children through this process, with guidance and complements.
Of course there are times when some of our principles are challenged to the extreme and we are after all human and will make mistakes, but our principles are what guide us and we do our very best.
Children
The principles written above have been developed from many years of learning.
Through education, reading, my own childhood and having raised three children of my own, being part of a foster family and listening and observing others. Also later looking at my own children and seeing who they have become. Now, being an older person, I am still learning from others. I enjoy being with people older than myself as they themselves have learnt so much. I pick out the things that mean a lot to me and work at improving myself. Life is full of learning!
Animals
Animals give us so much. Think about your responsibilities when you have a pet. Imagine you are them. Would you like your life then?
Teach your children how to care for animals wisely, making sure their needs are met. Animals are not toys!
There are many children who are facing difficult lives. Some of the issues which impact on their lives are bullying, a lack of self-confidence, families with parents who are no longer able to be together, have an illness that limits their opportunities. There are many more issues. I’m sure you know what I mean. Children should have a happy, fulfilling life offering a safe place where they can learn and grow.
At Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge we do not make judgment, but rather, offer support to these children (plus other people in their lives) thus assisting them in gaining the skills needed to make wise decisions and gain personal growth.
We aim to provide knowledge, a warm safe environment and importantly a philosophy which Gillian adhered to. This philosophy is full of love, guidance, limits, opportunities, fun, respect, consequences, self-belief, thoughtfulness and simplicity. Importantly we aim to create positive change in these children’s lives.
Initially these programmes will be held on a “visit to the farm” basis, then later, as we grow, we hope to have a home where children can come and stay then spend more time learning and growing.
GRB is fortunate in having the use of a beautiful old world farm with a variety of farm animals. Many of these animals have faced times that most living creatures should never have to face, fortunately things have changed for them, their wounds are healing and they are now willing to be part of Gill’s programme.
This is a page focusing on the children, for information about the farm animals. Please go to Farm Friends to learn more.
Gillian's Rainbow Bridge - 2018 Programs - Coming soon
.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Things To Remember - Things To Think About:
Remember when you visit us, or any other farm, it is important to wear the correct clothing. This includes, strong, water proof foot wear, old outside clothing, and a hat to protect you from the weather. Also you may need a water proof coat or sun protection/sun screen. If you are coming to Gill’s farm, be a responsible person and remember to have everything ready for the day.
.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Other information about Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge include;
The following Principles were;
Developed: In June 2012
Compiled by: Annette: Gill’s mum.
Manners
For example:
- Please and thank you used by both adults and children.
- May I use the phone please?
- Excuse me Mrs C can I please go and play.
While the use of manners may appear trivial it, is important to create a respectful and thoughtful attitude to all at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge.
Respect
This is a given-respect for all people and animals at all times.
Respect to all property.
Laughter
There must be lots of fun and laughter at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge.
However be respectful of others and don’t laugh at their expense.
Contribute
It is important that everyone tries to contribute. This helps take the load away from just a few people. We all have wonderful skills to share and there are many things we can still learn.
Acknowledge
It is important to acknowledge people’s skills, abilities and contribution at all times. This helps to build self-worth and confidence.
Questions
It is important to allow children to ask questions.
While this can be taxing at times it does allow children to develop and gain knowledge. However we also need to follow our principle about respect to others too.
Take Part
Allow children to take part in all sorts of activities.
It doesn’t matter if it’s cooking a cake, building a fence, cleaning out the animal houses, we learn a lot about others when doing things together. Also this helps us to work beside others.
Give Explanation
Give explanations as to why something is happening
Whether it is about something dangerous or why they shouldn’t have done something, it helps both children and adults to understand why you are asking them to do a particular thing.
Listen
It is important to listen to others.
It is important to listen to what children are trying to tell us or what they have to contribute. Also children need to listen to others too.
Actions and Consequences
Teach children that they are responsible for their actions.
So if they choose to do a particular thing, be it good or bad, there will be an outcome, a consequence.
Cleanliness
We all need to be clean to stay healthy.
Children, animals and adults all need to have their basic health need met. At Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge we expect all creatures to have clean and fresh food, water and bedding at all times.
At the same time, we must respect others personal levels of cleanliness. Being extreme in either direction can cause stress to others and oneself. Be thoughtful.
A question for you! Is it useful making a big issue about how tidy a child’s bedroom is?
How to cope in this tough wide world
This is one I may not have taught my children how to manage well. I will work on this.
Comments from a close friend. Few of us ever feel we have taught our children how to manage well. However it is something we can all work on. Thankyou Jane for your input.
Don’t complicate things
Life does not need to be complicated to be fulfilling and pleasurable.
Keep things simple. This creates a clear understanding of something and makes it easier for everyone to understand. Think about why things become more complicated and is it really useful.
Possessions
At the farm of Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge there will be lots of things for everyone to share, keeping in mind our principles about respects etc.
When at the farm everyone is expected to share, however it is important that we are all entitled to have our own personal possessions which, if we choose, do not have to be shared. It is important that we do not have to give up everything, and that it is OK to have our own special treasures.
Equality
Try to remember all people and animals are needed to create the whole picture. We all have something to contribute.
It is important to remember that no one is better or less valuable than anyone else. We all have skills and abilities. We will help you to find your special skills.
Build confidence in others
This applies to children, animals and adults.
At the farm we focus on building self-confidence. As leader/tutor one of your key roles is to acknowledge the skills, effort and willingness to contribute (plus lots more), no matter how small or large. Be an observer, notice what is happening.
Decision making
Making decisions, then following them through, is a key factor to helping create self confidence
Support children through this process, with guidance and complements.
Of course there are times when some of our principles are challenged to the extreme and we are after all human and will make mistakes, but our principles are what guide us and we do our very best.
Children
The principles written above have been developed from many years of learning.
Through education, reading, my own childhood and having raised three children of my own, being part of a foster family and listening and observing others. Also later looking at my own children and seeing who they have become. Now, being an older person, I am still learning from others. I enjoy being with people older than myself as they themselves have learnt so much. I pick out the things that mean a lot to me and work at improving myself. Life is full of learning!
Animals
Animals give us so much. Think about your responsibilities when you have a pet. Imagine you are them. Would you like your life then?
Teach your children how to care for animals wisely, making sure their needs are met. Animals are not toys!