The Halloween party at PlusKids was truly special: full of adventure, activities and laughter.
We had thrilling games and creative activities, then music and dancing, and every child took a turn at the centre of attention. That mattered to us: at a group party it is easy for only the loudest to come forward, so we shaped the afternoon so that each child had their own moment, however quickly they throw themselves in.
At the end came the sweet prizes, won for effort and imagination — not for who was fastest. It is a difference children notice at once, and it changes how they take part: if the prize rewards the idea and the involvement, then even those who usually shy away from contests give it a go.
Beyond the fun, a party has its place in an after-school year. The children see one another in a different light, away from homework and timetables, and the group knits together differently after an afternoon like that. Those who have danced together work together more easily on Monday morning too.
We keep the memories of that day fondly, and we were left with a great many photographs that tell the story better than any description.