No fewer than 30 kids converged at the basketball court side of Raberto’s School on a Saturday afternoon to celebrate their day.
The kids’ party, with the theme, ‘Creating Safe Spaces for Children: Our Collective Responsibility,’ was hosted by Celia Foundation to celebrate the 2018 Children’s Day.
At the beginning of the event, the Founder of Celia Foundation, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Adefarasin, gave a brief introduction about the history of the foundation, stating the vision and mission of Celia Foundation. She talked about how this cause has been a burden in her heart for 7years, to reach out and positively impact the lives of these special children in the Autism Spectrum and Down syndrome, and how she believes this is her sole calling in life, devoting her time and resources to this cause.
Doctor Fatima Cheshi, who has partnered and worked with Autism Speaks, gave a brief talk about Autism and Down Syndrome, she explained in detail the causes and how early intervention can be of great help in easing into the journey, she also encouraged parents not to be ashamed of their special need children and dismissed some of the myths associated with these conditions. Dr Cheshi said this event was a clarion call to bring awareness and provide supportive environment for special need kids, calling for support from both International and Local organisations.
“It is important that we strive to provide safe environments for kids; this should be a priority in the family context and community.”
Nine-year-old John Ishola was among the children present at the celebration and he stated that the coming together of children to celebrate their day was a way of fostering friendship and giving kids a sense of belonging.
“I feel wonderful about this Children’s Day and it is good that people celebrate children I enjoyed all the programmes,” he said.
Another kid, who was at the celebration, 10-year-old Monica Iyepka, said she was happy to be at the party.
She said, “I can’t think of being somewhere else; this is wonderful. The atmosphere is cool and I want to say thank you to the Celia Foundation, for the beautiful cake and party gifts.
Also, 14-year-old David Ajala, who rated the event high, said kids had been having fun, adding that the atmosphere was “bright and colourful.”
“We want to thank the organisers; we are enjoying ourselves and we are having fun,” he said.
One of the parents, who identified herself simply as Mrs. Adamu, said the initiative was good for bonding and spreading awareness.
“This is a very big avenue for families to come, unwind and gain more knowledge about the Broad spectrum of Autism and Down syndrome. It’s a good place for parents to understand and accept these special kids.
The programme featured dance competitions, musical chairs and quizzes; the children also enjoyed other fun and engaging activities, which included bouncing castle, the spinner, disco jams, and face painting. It also featured the children’s favourite Disney costume characters.
