Holiday and Fun ActivitiesSession
The past four weeks have been a whirlwind of creativity, teamwork, and pure joy as we continued our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) program at Caring and Sharing Rochdale for the summer holidays. From digital design sessions to classic games and arts and crafts, our young participants were fully immersed in activities that not only entertain but also nurtured their creative and social skills.
We kicked off one of our most exciting sessions with a special design workshop, where the children were introduced to the wonders of digital design using Canva. This session was more than just an introduction to a new tool—it was an exploration of creativity and the power of positive thinking.
The children, equipped with laptops to facilitate their learning, dived into designing personalized birthday cards and positive affirmation flashcards. The energy in the room was electric as they brought their ideas to life, using vibrant colors and imaginative layouts. Each child’s work reflected their unique personality, with affirmations that spoke to their inner strength and positivity. It was clear that this activity resonated deeply with them, not only as a creative outlet but also as a means to boost their self-esteem. At the same time, this session served as a means for the children to get to know one another and bond.
Following the design session, we took the excitement outdoors to Box2Box in Rochdale, where the children had the opportunity to burn off some energy on the football pitch. The mix of ages didn’t deter the fun—both young and older children joined in, fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. The smiles on their faces as they ran, kicked, and laughed together were a testament to the joy that simple outdoor play can bring.
As the days went by, at our center, the creativity continued with a hands-on paper decoration session. The children eagerly crafted headbands and greeting cards, each piece a reflection of their personal style and imagination. The pride in their work was evident as they exchanged smiles and compliments, sharing in the joy of creating something beautiful with their own hands. The sense of accomplishment and community spirit was palpable which made it all the more memorable.
The fun didn’t stop there. We also engaged the children in a series of mind games, encouraging them to use their imaginations and work together. On one of those days, charades and musical chairs emerged as the favorite games, filling the room with laughter and playful competition. These activities not only entertained but also highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication, as the children cheered each other on and celebrated each other’s successes.
One of the highlights of the program was an engaging session focused on fruits and vegetables—making healthy eating both fun and educational. The children learned various ways to enjoy their favorite produce, from juicing oranges to creatively slicing cucumbers, carrots, and apples. The real star of the session was the pomegranate, a new and exciting fruit for many of the kids, which quickly became a favorite. This session not only taught the children about healthy eating but also allowed them to explore different textures and tastes in a way that was anything but boring.
In another creative endeavor, the children explored the art of collage-making. They were guided to draw still life objects of their choice and then brought their drawings to life by applying adhesive and sticking soft materials to create textured artworks. The process of sorting colors and carefully placing materials was both fun and educational, giving the children a new appreciation for art and creativity. The printmaking session was equally engaging, introducing the children to the concept of duplicating patterns on surfaces. This simple yet fascinating technique allowed them to explore color juxtaposition and abstract art, sparking a desire for further creative exploration.
To round off the week, we offered a variety of games that kept the children engaged and excited. From the classic Jenga and Ludo to the lively musical chairs and balloon-popping contests, there was something for everyone. The children moved from one activity to the next with boundless energy, each game providing a new opportunity for fun and connection.
Looking Forward to More Adventures
As we reflect on the past few weeks, it’s clear that the HAF program is more than just a series of activities—it’s a journey of growth, creativity, and shared experiences. Each session has brought the children closer together, teaching them the value of teamwork, the joy of creative expression, and the importance of having fun.
We can’t wait to unfold to you the rest of what HAF summer presented these children. Join us again in our next article!
