Cape Town: The Recreation and Parks Department with the Library and Information Services Department of the City of Cape Town has introduced a summer holiday programme to keep the youngsters active throughout the season.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that the summer holiday is the longest of the year and it can be a challenge to keep the little hands and minds busy. Both the departments have put together a programme of hundreds of events to ensure that the children are not bored.
The major activities have a long list of enjoyment that will feature:
- Sports Tournaments
- Games
- Coding
- Movie Days
- Arts and Crafts
- Beach Safety
- Drowning Prevention, and
- Learn to Swim Sessions
Some of the more unusual events will include sessions with the various enforcement departments, during the City of Cape Town pamper days and a snake show.
Higham highlighted that keeping children busy during school summer holidays is important for their social and physical development. It can help them stay active, build life skills, and maintain healthy routines.
But it’s also a powerful way of giving young people positive alternatives at a time when many may be exposed to the influence of crime, gangs, or drugs. When children have safe spaces to learn, play, and discover their potential, the City team strengthen their resilience and set them on a healthier path for the future.
She wants to encourage parents to send their children to the events so the holidays can be fun and constructive for everyone. Parents are reminded that young children are not allowed at pools without any supervision.
While visiting to the beach, look out for the City of Cape Town’s Identikidz child safety project during the peak season. The initiative tagged over 120,000 children last summer to help in reuniting them with their caregivers if separated.
The City reminded the public of four golden rules when in and around water, that are:
- Only swim where and when lifeguards are on duty, between their red and yellow flags designating the safest bathing areas.
- Beware of rip currents.
- Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol.
- Always actively monitor children in and around water