Pupils from third class and above, were trained by RCB Volunteer Trainer Melissa McMahon and Producer Sallyann Marron to use recording equipment, and were then set with the task of asking parents, grandparents, friends and neighbours in their communities – how they used to play when they were children. The pupils came from Annagh National School, Coore National School, Kilmihil National School, Querrin National School, Clohanes National School and Gaelscoil Ui Choimin in Kilrush.
The project has been a huge success, with children finding out the intricacies of pegging tops, spinning tops, pitching quaids and marbles, to name but a few. They have also found out about the amount of (unpaid!) work carried out by their parents and grandparents as they helped out on family farms and businesses. There was no such thing as pocket money, children were just expected to pitch in with the rest. Similarly, summer holidays consisted of turning turf, making hay and harvesting vegetables. It wasn’t all hard work though and there are fantastic tales from people as they reminisce about growing up. No matter what generation they are, all had fond memories of Christmas and Santa coming to visit!