A big day for small residents
National Child Day celebrated in Sachs Harbour
Kassina Ryder
Northern News Services
Monday, December 7, 2015
IKAAHUK/SACHS HARBOUR
It's an event children in Sachs Harbour wait for every year, says 11-year-old Christopher Haogak.
"I look forward to spending time with my friends, laughing and having fun," he said.
"That's what I'm looking forward to when these activities happen."
National Child Day was celebrated at the Ajgaliaq Centre on Nov. 20, said Doreen Carpenter, the community's recreation co-ordinator.
The event, established by UNICEF, commemorates the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
In Sachs Harbour, that means a day spent wearing a favourite set of pyjamas and making special waffles, Haogak said.
"We had waffles with all different kinds of toppings," he said.
Carpenter said the waffle-making activity was a big hit. Toppings included chocolate sauce, sprinkles, whipped cream and fruit.
"Most of them you wouldn't have at home," Haogak explained.
Participants also helped decorate the centre's Christmas tree before settling in to watch a movie together.
"Watching the movie was my favourite part," Haogak said.
"We watched the Grinch Who Stole Christmas and it really made me laugh."
Celebrating National Child Day is a special part of the annual recreation calendar in Sachs Harbour, Carpenter said.
Not only is it a chance to get together and have fun, the event helps let children know they are valued.
"It's just to recognize them and let them know they're really important to the community," Carpenter said.
"They know that that one day a year is really special for them, it's just to make them feel important."
Another big day dedicated to Sachs Harbour's kids is the upcoming Kiddie Carnival, which will be held in the Inualthuyak School gym on Dec. 1, Carpenter said.
Activities will include face painting booths, balloon animals and a carnival-themed canteen featuring cotton candy and other treats.
The carnival is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.
The federal government's Brighter Futures program provided funding for the National Child Day events, Carpenter said.
