YOUNG Islanders are being invited to the second Children’s Day celebration in the Howard Davis Park, after last year’s event attracted more than 6,000 people.
The plans include live music from a range of youth performers, free entertainment and activities, and catering. A range of organisations and charities are expected to be present to provide information, advice and guidance.
Holding the event annually around 3 July was one of the recommendations of a citizens’ panel set up in the wake of the 2017 Independent Care Inquiry report, which found that Jersey had failed vulnerable children in care for decades.
Cheyenne O’Connor, of the independent survivors’ group at the Community Partnership Trust, said: ‘This year’s event looks set to be another amazing day for families to come and join in with the fantastic range of activities planned. At the same time, Jersey Children’s Day is also a chance for us to remember the lessons of the past and work towards creating a better future for our children.’
Ahead of Children’s Day, schools have been taking part in a community art project designing dream catchers. They are to be displayed at the event.
Haute Vallée student Jodie Perkins designed the event’s emblem during a 2020 Islandwide competition.
She said at the time: ‘My design represents how children should feel safe where they are. They should be able to cope with change and they should be recognised for their full potential.’
Children’s and Education Minister Inna Gardiner said: ‘Children and young people are at the heart of Jersey Children’s Day and we thank our schools for helping us to distribute invitations to every schoolchild and all children who are home-educated will also receive an invitation. We look forward to once again seeing children and families and the community come together to celebrate this year’s event.’
The event is to be held on Sunday at Howard Davis Park from 10am to 5pm.
