‘Listening and Talking’ key theme for Children’s Day

More than three hundred events have been organised across New Zealand to celebrate the ninth National Children’s Day on Sunday, 1 March 2009.

The theme in 2009 is listening and talking says Chair of the National Children’s Day Steering Group Mark Woodard.

“Listening and talking are important for raising happy, healthy, and vibrant children,” says Mr Woodard.

“This is because listening and talking to children underpins their social, emotional, and cognitive development – it really helps,” he says.

Children’s Day event organisers have been encouraged to promote positive communication this year. Ideas to support the listening and talking theme are highlighted in the activity materials that are available at many events and on the Children’s Day website.

“The purpose of Children's Day is to see children celebrated, nurtured, and treasured by all.

“We are encouraging adults to spend time with their kids on Children’s Day, to talk to them about what’s going on in their lives, and to really listen to what they have to say.

“You may want to attend a Children’s Day event in your local community or try something fun with your family, whanau, or loved ones. Either way, make time to do something special together.

In 2009, events range from the annual Toddlers Day Out and Parenting Fair at Waitakere in Auckland that attracts 11,000 people to a variety of small family, school and early childhood centre celebrations.

Visit www.childrensday.org.nz for more information about Children’s Day and a list of events in your area.

Public Children’s Day Events by Region (as at 24 February):

Northland 8
Auckland 43
Waikato 17
Bay of Plenty 16
East Coast 5
Hawke's Bay 7
Taranaki 9
Manawatu - Wanganui 18
Wellington 34
Tasman, Nelson, Marlborough 7
Canterbury 19
West Coast 7
Otago 8
Southland 7

Nearly 100 private events have also been registered on the Children’s Day website.

ENDS

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