Day out for toddlers and family

Celebrate National Children’s Day with a fun-filled day for the whole family at the Toddler Day Out and Great Parenting Fair at the Trusts Stadium in Henderson on Sunday 7 March.

“The focus is on the development, wellbeing and safety of the under-fives,” says Elaine Dyer of Violence Free Waitakere.

“We’ve been going for six years and each year its popularity has increased, last year 13,000 came along for the celebration.”

Guest speakers include Children’s Day patron, Lady Susan Satyanand.

Hosted by Violence Free Waitakere and Early Childhood Education Waitakere, with support from Waitakere City Council, the event will feature more than 60 stalls run by various Waitakere support services and community organisations. They will be on hand to help families with a range of issues from health to budgeting.

“This year the theme is ‘praise and encouragement’ and positive reinforcement, it helps us to remember that our children are precious,” says Waitakere City Councillor Brenda Brady.

The day gives parents and caregivers an opportunity to learn new and wonderful education and family parenting tips.”

“We want all of our little pre-schoolers in early childhood education as it sets them up for their learning when they go to primary school.”

People can enter a draw to win some fabulous prizes, including family passes to Rainbow’s End and MOTAT, a trip to Tiritiri Matangi and a trampoline and safety net. All they need to do is complete the Toddler Tips Treasure Hunt form as they go around the arena.

Enjoy the non-stop stage show where multicultural performing groups and well known entertainers, Star Fish, will be on stage to engage children in singing and dancing.

There is no shortage of entertainment, and a petting zoo, storytelling, face painting, clowns, puppet shows, bouncy castles and free rides, including a mini ferris wheel and vertical bungee, are just some of the activities on offer.

Bring your own picnic and sit under the trees beside the playground or you can enjoy the range of refreshments on sale.

What: Toddler Day Out and Great Parenting Fair

Where: The Trusts Stadium, 65-67Central Park Drive, Henderson

When: 7 March, 2010, 10am to 3pm

Cost: Free