Bubbles filled the air in Launceston’s Civic Square on October 24th through to October 26th in celebration of Children’s Week 2023 and of course, The Wiggles soundtrack was on repeat.
Although Wags the Dog didn’t seem to make an appearance, perhaps next year.
Children’s Week is an annual event held celebrated around Australia on the fourth Wednesday of October.
“Having just come out Senior’s Week and now rolling over into Children’s Week, it’s amazing from a council point of view to be able see people from all different ages, backgrounds, beliefs and ethnicities come together as a community.” – Launceston Mayor, Matthew Garwood.
Activities in the square included chalk drawing giant games, down ball and all things tailored to children under five. So, of course bubble blowing machines were involved (although the adults may have had even more fun than the kids).
One of the event’s coordinators, and Place Activation Officer, Graham Lillywhite, has three children himself. A 16-year-old, 14-year-old and nine-year-old.
“It’s National Children’s Week and it’s about bringing people together, “he said.
“Young families are out here today with young children in their care. Children’s Week is an ongoing event, but It’s the first time we’ve been able to support the Launceston Library and their activities in Civic Square, we hope to do lots more with them.”
The celebrations and activities were not only for the children but for the adults as well. Launceston Mayor, Matthew Garwood, said the days were also a chance for parents to come together and mingle, to create a sense of community.
“From a community point of view, whilst it’s Children’s Week, it’s about the relationships and the friendships the parents get to make together,” Mayor Matthew Garwood explained.
Cr Garwood explained that he is able to empathise with parents since the birth of his daughter, Billie.
“Since being a father to my daughter, Billie, I’m seeing how a parent could feel a little isolated,” he said.
“So, to find a community of parents going through similar feelings and emotions, it is really encouraging to see so many of them coming together to let each other know that they’re not alone and that they can express their feelings and come together.”
“It’s important as a parent to not lose your sense of identity. Events like this are vital to validate our sense of belonging and it’s just as important for the parents as well as the kids.”
The event not only brought children and parents together but was a great learning opportunity for children as well.
“The connection to the Launceston Library is really important, especially with children’s literacy,” empathised Graham Lillywhite.
“Having an early connection with that being a safe space and a place of fun is ongoing.”
With the success of this year’s events, it is hopeful that Launceston residents will be able to enjoy events such as this for years to come.
