It was a sunny afternoon at Child and Family Services’ Delaware Avenue campus, and all the children were bursting with enthusiasm knowing there was something exciting happening outside their windows. The Residential team members were setting up for a summer carnival complete with yard games, an ice cream truck, a snow cone machine and even a dunk tank!
“It’s all the children could talk about at breakfast,” said Shanika Chinnery, Residential Operating Manager. “They couldn’t wait to see all the fun activities we had planned for them.”
After dinner, children were split into groups, and they eagerly rushed outside to start their evening of carnival fun. Games included cornhole, basketball, Kan Jam, Ring Toss, Tug-a-War and a sack race. Each game gave the children opportunities to win tickets and redeem them for a round of laser tag in the gym or a fun prize.
“Many children in our Residential programs have never experienced going to a fair or festival,” explained Akyng Franklin, Residential Activity Leader. “So, we decided to bring the carnival to them!”
The dunk tank was a particularly amusing activity, as children lined up for a chance to dunk a bucket of water over their friend’s head. One child successfully hit the target three times in a row, causing a lot of laughter and applause from his audience.
“I enjoy planning little events like the carnival and bringing these experiences to children in our program,” emphasized Akyng. “Participating in these activities helps the children build healthy relationships with one another while creating childhood memories.”
The carnival ended with children enjoying a delicious treat from Chilly Billy’s ice cream truck. It was the perfect way to wrap up the last week of summer before heading back to school!