Painting masks at Whiteman Park

Colourful clothes and hair, as well as fun with art activities, brought smiles as Children’s Week got off to great start at the weekend.

Relationships Australia was among the community and educational organisations involved at Whiteman Park, Perth, and in Albany.

At Whiteman Park the Relationships Australia stall gave information to families while nearly 200 children showed their creativity by making masks.

Perth Family Relationship Centre, Playgroup WA, Scitech, the Aboriginal Health Service and nearly 30 other community groups also participated in the day.

In Albany, Relationships Australia branch manager Antonia Grasso donned an eye-catching head of hair while she and her team offered a lively blend of information and entertainment.

“Lots of people had fun with us at our spot outside the Library,” says Antonia. “We made name badges for the children. Some put more than their names – they added lovely words about Dads and grandmas, for example.”

Children’s Week is coordinated by the Meerilinga Foundation – which promotes positive childhood – and highlights the Universal Rights of the Child that include freedom, safety and protection.

The Week includes awards for art and activities aimed at encouraging young people’s engagement in community events.

The awards also recognise adults, services and projects that have made an outstanding contribution to improving opportunities for families and children aged from 3 to 12.

For details, see www.childrensweekwa.org.au