Thursday 28 February 2008

Children's Commissioner urges parents to plan family fun for Sunday

New experiences is the theme for this year's Children's Day, Te Ra O Te Tamariki and today Children's Commissioner Dr Cindy Kiro urged parents to plan a fun activity for the family this Sunday, 2 March.

"Children's Day is not about spending money or giving expensive presents, it is about spending time with children whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunty, uncle or friend," Dr Kiro said.

"When I talk to children they say they value fun times with their family above anything materialistic. They want to be listened to, praised and encouraged, told stories - be they real adventures their parents had when they were children or make-believe - and above all, given love and affection.

"Parenting can be stressful and we can forget about these most basic things that make us feel both valued as parents and give us time to appreciate our children. Children's Day is time to forget about any stresses and focus on good times.

"There are many community activities planned around New Zealand on Sunday which will create an environment for new experiences that are all part of enabling children to learn and grow in confidence."

For more information in Children's Day go to: http://www.childrensday.org.nz/ChildrensDaySite/

ENDS

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