Our Children’s Day was attended by an impressive crowd of over 200 (the most we’ve ever had at this event). We engaged 13 volunteers (3 of them juniors) helping with various activities during the event, plus preparations and set up before and cleaning up afterwards. Their support was simply priceless.
Our participants reflected our diverse local communities. We had Polish and British families, as well as from other ethnic minorities. We especially welcomed families of Ukrainian refugees. Events like this help us create mutual understanding for people from different backgrounds and make our community more cohesive.
We offered perennial favourites like face painting and arts and crafts, led by our dedicated and creative volunteers. With The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee approaching, we included some royal elements in the activities. Children were busy decorating their own royal crowns and guard’s hats and assembling princess and palace guard puppets as well as frogs and butterflies. Many families enjoyed taking fun photos using colourful selfies frames created by SPS staff.
The section with fun science experiments was surrounded by groups of curious youngsters all the time. The goal of this activity was to show children how to learn the basics of physics and chemistry through play, using products they already have in their homes (such as water, oil, sugar cubes, baking soda etc.) Together with the giant soap bubbles maker it was another successful activity. We can only hope that some of the children will continue their interest in science.
The stall with cosmetics and Polish books for sale was also popular.
Two Nottinghamshire Police officers were showing off their patrol car, even allowing a few children to turn on the signal. They were posing for photos and patiently answering questions. Having good relationships with their local police is very important to the Polish community.
Tombola, offering attractive prizes for children and adults, proved to be a hit. At the end of the event we drew the main prize – a large gift hamper. Also towards the end children were treated to a colourful cake baked especially for the event.
We also had representatives of Nexus with information about employment opportunities and demonstration of Thermomix, presented by their Polish consultant.
The feedback from the participating families was really positive, proving that such events are very important not only for the Polish community. Many of them expressed interest in other similar events.
We are proud we could organise another successful event.
