Beacon of Light goes to YPT:
This year, students attended a play called "The Secret Garden" at the Young People's Theater in downtown Toronto. For some, this was their first time seeing artists act on a live stage. For all, this was an invaluable experience as the play had some important moral teachings. Most importantly, they learned about the importance of being unselfish: listening to others openly, and treating other's opinions and feelings with respect. They also learned about the joys of helping friends and neighbours. The result of such virtues is that one is more likely to make meaningful and happy friendships - an important aspect of social development.
In preparation for this play, students first read the book by F.H. Burnett. Younger readers were given an abridged version. After the play, students had the opportunity to reflect on the story in a group format expressing their thoughts on important characters and themes.
Seeing a book such as "The Secret Garden" come to life on stage not only sparks children's imagination but can also inspire them to critically reflect on what it means to be good and do good.
