On the first day back from the holiday, PlusKids turned into a television studio.
The children were thrilled to present their own shows. Speaking in front of others, with a microphone in hand and a clear role, is a communication exercise few activities can match. The presenter has to know what comes next, speak loudly and clearly, and carry on even when they stumble — while those in the studio learn to listen all the way through, which is sometimes the harder part.
We also talked about how the television set evolved, from the big, heavy machines of the past to today's screens. The children were delighted to see how much an object they take entirely for granted has changed, and then they built a television of their own.
The building was the part that tied everything together. Once you have made a box with a screen yourself, it is easier to understand that the programme inside is also made by someone, with a plan and a team behind it.
A first day back that we thoroughly enjoyed — and the best possible way of getting back into the rhythm.