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Playday to be marked in Jersey with fun and games in Parade Gardens

Children in Jersey and their families are being encouraged to join in play activities at Parade Gardens to mark national Playday.

The ‘Come and Play’ event, on Wednesday 1st of August, will run from 11am to 2pm and will feature approximately 20 different activities such as skipping, hula hooping, giant Jenga, basketball, Twister and skittles, whilst a face-painter will also be on hand.

On Playday, thousands of children and their families get out to play at hundreds of community events across the British Isles.

“Play activities are great for young children when it comes to developing their physical literacy. It is also gives opportunities for children and their parents or carers to spend quality time together,” said Jersey Sport General Manager David Kennedy.

“While play is clearly mainly about having fun, it also helps improve skills such as balance, agility and hand-eye coordination.

“It’s clear from the initial consultation work of the Children’s Commissioner that children in the island want more opportunities and places to play, and national Playday gives us a chance to highlight the vital part play should have in a healthy, active childhood.”

While Jersey Sport staff will be overseeing the event, all children should be accompanied by an adult throughout.

From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events in parks and open spaces – Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

“Jersey Sport’s ‘Come and Play day’ is a welcome addition to the calendar of events on offer to children and their families,” added Deborah McMillan, Children’s Commissioner for Jersey.

“Finding more places to play was one of eight themes to have been highlighted by Jersey’s children in their responses to the island-wide survey carried out earlier this year, making use of the spaces we already have is an important first step in addressing this.

“The UNCRC recognises that every child has the right to relax, play and take part in a wide range of cultural and artistic activities and I hope that families take this opportunity to simply come and play.”

Play providers in the island wishing to promote their services at the event are encouraged to contact David Kennedy on 01534 757700.