Thousands of children and young people in Manchester enjoyed a free summer of fun thanks to Parktastic events in their local parks and green spaces.
A wide range of activities from sports, arts and crafts and fun-filled sessions ensured that families had a host of activities in their own neighbourhoods to help entertain children during the long, hot summer holidays.
From outdoor games to painting and creative crafts, making food, enjoying music, drama and dance as well as nature activities and fun on inflatables the summer programme offered something for all ages. The sessions were delivered by local youth and play organisations in the area.
It proved to be a huge success with more than 7,000 school aged children taking part in 330 Parktastic sessions across 55 parks with the age range evenly split between younger children aged 5-10 and those aged 11- 16. It comes as the city works towards being recognised by UNICEF as a Child Friendly City, with a child’s right to play firmly enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child.
Councillor Julie Reid, Executive member for Children and Young People said:
“Parktastic has been a huge success in Manchester over the summer holidays, bringing thousands of children, young people, and families together to enjoy free activities in parks and green spaces right across the city. Running in wards in every locality, the programme has offered everything from sports and games to arts, play, and wellbeing sessions, creating safe and inclusive spaces for young people to spend their summer. Feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting how valuable Parktastic has been in providing free, local opportunities during the school break.”
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods said:
“We know that our parks and green spaces are really important places for our children to play, and the events in our parks were designed to give children a safe and active way to spend some of their summer break while helping to give parents and carers, much needed support during the long summer holidays. It has been incredibly well received, and we know how much the children enjoyed the sessions, because they told us ,and how grateful parents and carers were to have this on their doorstep. Not only did it help children connect with friends, and make new friends during the holidays, but also helped children try out new things and develop new interests. Our parks are beautiful outdoor green spaces with lots of facilities and things going on including play areas for children to enjoy all year round.”
The final session was held in Ancoats Green Park on Friday 29 August before children returned to school in September.
Some feedback from parents and carers at the end of the sessions included:
“Seeing my son interacting with other young people and the youth workers. They encouraged him to have a go at the music as well as engaging him in taking part in the games that they had brought with them. “
“Very interactive play sessions, amazing staff, and lots for the kids to do.”
“The volunteer staff were incredible with the children. They had great activities planned, were interactive and patient with the kids, and were so prepared. “
