The YMCA of Northern B.C. is celebrating National Child Day Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a free community event.
"It's an internationally recognized day and it has to do with the UN's declaration of the rights of the child so as a leader in quality childcare the Y believes that's really important," said Stephanie Mikalishen, coordinator of philanthropic development and camp program.
"Not only are we there to give families somewhere to go and something to do as far as our mission to build healthy communities but really as supporters and advocates of quality childcare day after day.
"We think it's really important to celebrate the rights of the child and this year the theme is a child's right to be heard."
Every year the YMCA tries to keep to the theme of the day so part of the craft creation will be musical instrument making and then activities relating to children being able to voice their own questions to encourage them to be heard, added Mikalishen, who expects between 150 to 300 families to attend the event.
"We want children to know that as adults we are and should be listening," she said.
There are many activities planned for families, especially those with children aged from tiny tots to about 12 years old, Mikalishen added.
"The gym will be filled with all sorts of activities, like musical instrument making, a bouncy train will be there, a bouncy castle will be there that's more suitable for the little ones, and the Camp Kanannaq team will be there doing campfire cookies," said Mikalishen.
The rec room will be open as well.
It has a climbing structure, a rock wall, ping pong and there will also be face painting.
"Save On Foods has generously donated apples so children can enjoy a healthy snack while they're burning off all their energy," said Mikalishen.
Everyone is welcome to attend the event at the Y, 2020 Massey Drive.
