Through consultation with local families it was identified that youth between 8 – 12-years old had limited opportunities to participate in minimal low cost or free activities within the local area. A lot of families expressed that they had experienced barriers in accessing local transport and felt unsafe letting their children play alone at a park or within the street.
The Cranebrook Connects Working Group decided to work together to utilise Sherringham oval as a safe space for children and families to attend on a Thursday afternoon. Various activities were put together to engage children and families.
Activities included various ball games such as soccer, basketball, cricket, in addition to Kite flying, Frisbee, rock painting and old favourites such as stuck in the mud, ship, shark, shore and three-legged races.
We have had approximately 40 children attend over the weeks and the children’s feedback reflects that of a happy, fun and enjoyable space. It has been great to watch the children work together and try new things. Group games promoted negotiation and social skills giving the children a safe space to communicate and develop friendships with other children.
A huge thankyou to the following organisations whom gave up their time to make this happen.
Breakthru
Braddock Primary School
Penrith City Council
School Industry Partnership
Barnardos
Check out photos below:
