‘My story’-Maddie, 6, Halswell School
In the earthquake I was crying because I wanted Mummy. Afterwards we were waiting in another classroom and the teacher let us watch a movie, there were two more earthquakes while we were in the classroom.
Whenmyhomeshook.co.nz is a website dedicated to helping Canterbury School children overcome the 2011 earthquake by providing a platform where they can openly share their personal earthquake stories and experiences.These stories were turned into a book which was distributed free to all Christchurch libraries and schools. Hosting of the website is covered by oVRcome, a virtual reality app to help people overcome phobias and anxieties.
Dear Maddie
I am sorry that you were crying because of the earthquakes, they are pretty bad aren’t they?
But they will not always be there and one day it will be lovely and quiet again.
Mummy would have been so pleased to see you all safe and well at school.
Please say thank you from me to the teachers as they did a good job letting you see a movie.
Say Hi to your family from me and tell them I am thinking of them and of course you too.
From Ella in Auckland.