The United Nations officially set aside June 11th as the International Day of Play in 2024, recognizing the role of play in the growth and development of children. To celebrate this historic occasion, Lluvia Health Organisation, collaborated with Upbeat Recreation Centre, The Children’s Arts Gallery (TCAG), and Bama Nigeria, to organize an exciting play-centered event in Lekki, Lagos. The event, which focused on children with chronic health conditions and children with disabilities, brought together children from various foundations, including the Children’s Developmental Centre, Sickle Cell Foundation, Irede Foundation, Loving Gaze Foundation, and Dorcas Cancer Foundation, for a day filled with laughter, creativity, and movement.
A total of 33 children participated, engaging in vibrant art activities led by facilitators from TCAG. They explored painting, collage-making, and coloring, with each child receiving a special art package. The excitement peaked during the trampoline session, where children bounced joyfully, while some parents attended a psychology session facilitated by a specialist from Empathy Space Hub. Refreshments were provided to keep the energy levels high throughout the day.
In attendance were representatives from the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and various child-focused organisations. The day also served as an opportunity to advocate for the integration of play in paediatric healthcare.
