Giving young patients a reason to smile

Students at Hewitt School are broadening their horizons. In addition to furthering their academic skills, Mrs. Barbara Jay’s fourth grade class is learning first hand that they can make a positive difference in the world around them. Throughout the year, these children donate their own handmade quilts to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Pediatric Unit. Every day, Mrs. Jay sets aside 30 minutes after lunch to instruct her students on how to collaboratively construct a quilt.

Through a generous grant provided by Hewitt’s PTA, necessary items such as material, thread and batting are readily available. Thus far, two beautiful quilts have been delivered to the hospital, and the class is in the process of completing a third. This meaningful and rewarding group activity affords students an opportunity to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of giving to others while learning a new skill. Rachel Corke, the patient coordinator at Sloan Kettering, has informed Mrs. Jay’s fourth graders that the warmth and comfort provided by their quilts give pediatric patients something special to smile about.