Mohamad and Osama Kalash, 6th class and 5th class students of the Muslim National School proudly represented Ireland in the final ceremony of the prestigious Arab Reading Challenge in Dubai.
The boys showed exceptional dedication to this extraordinary feat having secured 1st and 2nd place within the Ireland and Northern Ireland. Competing with students from 1st class in primary school up to 6th year in secondary school, their outstanding achievement highlights not only their passion for reading but also their impressive trilingual abilities in Arabic, English and Irish.
The Arab Reading Challenge, initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum lf Dubai, promotes a lifelong love for knowledge and reading, bringing together millions of students worldwide. It aims to ignite a passion for knowledge and reading among young people. Since it's inception, it has encouraged millions of students from around the world to read, analyse, and discuss a wide range of books, fostering critical thinking and a love for learning.
The journey to Dubai was intense, involving up to 50 books being read, discussed, and analysed at home and through online sessions. For the boys' proud parents, Shadi and Sanaa, being in Dubai to witness their recognition was truly special. The school couldn't be prouder of Mohamad and Osama for their hard work and dedication. Seeing the Irish and Palestinian flags side by side is a beautiful coincidence that symbolises the close bond between these two countries.
The mothers and students of the Muslim National School joined forces with the ICCI youth clubs and organised a Kid's Fun Day full of activities during the mid-term break. Funds were collected in support of the annual Islamic Relief Charity Week. Children of all ages enjoyed craft and colouring stations, different races and challenges, learned to Limbo, explored their senses in the sensory and messy play areas and had fun with the photo booth props. Thank you to everyone who supported the event. We are looking forward to hosting it in the school in the summer term hopefully!
The Parent's Association organised a very beneficial and informative talk by Furdus Sultan about safeguarding children in this digital age. The seminar was excellent with the content being well-delivered and interactive throughout.
Many relatable examples, both positive and negative, regarding the effects of digital exposure on primary school children were discussed. Parents were strongly advised to minimise a child's exposure to the internet and ensure strong parental control are in place on smartphones and tablets.
Every class in the school enjoyed the benefit of having a dental health promotional seminar. The topics focused on 'Why it is important to brush our teeth and look after our diet'. The chemistry behind dental decay was simplified and explained to the children so they could understand why the advice given is as important. Also that conscious eating habits and brushing frequencies impact their dental health. They learned to spell FLUORIDE and that toothpaste must contain 1450ppm F for optimal daily fluoride absorption onto teeth. Students learned about the 'Rule of 2s' when caring for their teeth. These include:
• Everyone only has 2 sets of dentition (baby teeth and permanent adult teeth), so it is pertinent that good dental health habits are established early and maintained.
• Brush teeth twice a day, after breakfast and before they go to sleep.
• Spend 2 minutes brushing teeth and use a sand timer or a smartphone timer.
• Don't forget to brush the gums and tongue.
• Snacks and treats within reasonable quantities should only be consumed twice a week, after a meal and followed by a drink of water or plain milk.
• Chocolates are better than gummies as snacks.
• Fizzy drinks and sparkling/flavoured water at all costs should be avoided.
• Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months.
We are hoping to revise and build on this foundation next year and expect some future dentists and hygienists from the Muslim National School in the future!
