The importance of human connection will be celebrated in Sydney Catholic schools, parishes and homes during Healthy Friendship Week (21-25 February).
An initiative of CatholicCare – the social services agency of the Archdiocese of Sydney – Healthy Friendship Week will see communities engaging in a range of fun activities centred around building positive friendships.
Designed for children aged 5-12 years, the activities are linked to the Religious Education (RE) and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) curriculum outcomes and can be accessed via the Healthy Friendship Week website.
The activities can occur in-class or at lunchtime, can be added to homework grids, or can be undertaken at home with parents and guardians.
Anthony Cleary, Director of Mission and Identity at Sydney Catholic Schools, said Healthy Friendship Week comes as a great reminder of the value of being there for one another.
“One of the great challenges of our time is the need for people to develop genuine and life-giving relationships,” Mr Cleary said.
“Friendships can help us in so many ways and we know that the experience of good and healthy friendships makes the world seem a much better place.
“I hope that the week helps students and their families develop their understanding and experience of strong and positive friendships.”
Healthy Friendship Week is the first program of CatholicCare’s Joy of Life – a framework for the preparation, formation and support of marriage and relationships in the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney.
Joy of Love includes programs, courses and resources for young children, teenagers, parents, carers, post-school, engaged and married couples in the Sydney Archdiocese.
