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EveryChild in Kyrgyzstan makes Day of Play an annual event

06 Aug 2009

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Following the success of EveryChild Kyrgyzstan’s 'Day of Play' in 2008, children have once again benefitted from a similar event held at the end of July. This makes the 'Day of Play' an annual event which is enjoyed by some of the most marginalised children in Kyrgyzstan.

Last year in Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Guyana, India, Malawi, Moldova and Ukraine EveryChild held an international 'Day of Play' to celebrate children’s right to play. Photographs and games from the event formed the basis of the chances4childhood exhibition held in London in November 2008. The exhibition provided an extraordinary insight into the lives and playtime of some of the most marginalised children in the world.

In Kyrgyzstan the aim of their 'Day of Play' was to encourage social inclusion of children with disabilities and children from other marginalised groups such as those living in children’s homes and growing up on the streets. The event was such a success that children, parents and community workers were keen to make it an annual event.

50 children benefitted from the event held in Talas City this year. For many of these children, it is the first time they have had the opportunity to leave their communities and most importantly meet with children from other areas and different backgrounds. The 'Day of Play' was supported by 20 young volunteers from the Dutch NGO Explore. These volunteers, aged 14-18, facilitated games and activities for the children.

Yet again the event was enjoyed thoroughly by all children who took part. The plan is to make the event an annual celebration of childhood play and social inclusion.

Anara Ismailova, Director of EveryChild in Kyrgyzstan, said:

“The 'Day of Play' included demonstrations of national games and toys but also contained universally-known children’s games. The children were extremely happy at this event, parents of children with disabilities were delighted to see their children playing and laughing together with other children, teachers and caregivers were pleased to meet each other and share the joyful moments.”