THESE are the touching messages written by children, for children.
Primary six pupils from Cardonald Primary in Glasgow penned welcome letters for refugee children arriving in their city.
Now the missives will be distributed with supply packs by the charity Refuweegee.
Student teacher Jennifer McFadyen, who led the lesson, said: "I was quite moved reading some of them. I wasn't expecting them to be so emotive."
McFadyen, of Dundee University, is nearing the end of her classroom placement at the school. A total of 32 pupils took part in the writing session, also drawing lively images to cheer their young peers.
"I hope you find comfort and happiness for the rest of your life here," wrote one, who recommended outings to the free-to-visit Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery and Starbucks frappuccinos as amongst the benefits of Glasgow life. "Even the weather is absolutely terrible you can still have fun in the rain as long as you are wrapped up properly," the pupil added.
"I know your journey must have been hard, but here in Glasgow we will welcome you with open arms," another 10-year-old said, sharing their dubiety about haggis: "To tell you the truth, I am not a big fan of haggis but everyone loves it so you might too.
"Our community is kind and loves new people like you," the child went on.
Another simply said: "You're gonna love Glasgow!
"Everyone here is so kind and caring. There are lots of beautiful parks."
After learning about refugees in Scotland today, p6 have written welcome letters for refugee children who have recently arrived in Glasgow. Aren’t they lovely? @Refuweegee pic.twitter.com/DoCEv82nYX
— Miss Mcfadyen (@Miss_Mcfadyen) November 24, 2021
Meanwhile, one classmate offered some advice about dealing with any negativity newly-arrived children might encounter. "Some people will be mean but don't listen to them," they said. "Glasgow is happy to have you. Have a happy life here. Warm hugs."
McFadyen, who has previous involvement with Refuweegee, said: "I gave them the background about what refugees are, what the situation in Scotland is where their needs weren't being met and it gave them perspective in comparison to their lives, which got them thinking.
"I asked them if they might write a letter, but the words are theirs. You could tell they really cared."
McFadyen shared the material on Twitter, where Christina McKelvie MSP, Scotland's Minister for Older People and Equalities, was amongst the thousand-plus people to pick it up. "So I want these children to be the Home Secretary please," she posted, adding the hashtags #Kindness #Compassion and #RefugeesWelcome.
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