Families had the chance to connect with others and create memories during a festival-themed celebration organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The Big Family Fun Day was jam-packed with activities, performances and animal encounters and took place at Milton. It was enjoyed by 139 people from 35 families, including seven who are bereaved.
There were bubbles and games, alongside traditional summer refreshments, with Milton’s catering team serving burgers, hot dogs, chips and mocktails throughout the day. Families also tucked into treats from an ice cream cart provided by Toni’s Ices and kindly sponsored by Telfer Partners.
Families enjoyed circus skills workshops, face painting, hair braiding, a children’s entertainer, a petting farm featuring supported pony rides and African drumming.
One of the highlights was a series of interactive karaoke sessions led by Milton Music Therapist Katherine Walters and Play Specialist Helen Thrower, supported by Music Champion Kirsty Dixon.
Children were invited to choose their favourite songs, either performing solo, singing with family members or joining in with backing tracks, and there were plenty of instruments to get the whole family involved.
“One child who finds speaking difficult and had arrived at the event feeling withdrawn later chose a song and happily tapped along on a tambourine, repeatedly telling staff ‘I love this, I mean it’,” said Ceri Dobson, EACH’s Groups and Events Co-ordinator at Milton.
“It was incredible to witness and touching to see how much they enjoyed it.
“Overall, it was a very special event and a great opportunity to bring everyone together for a day of fun, friendship and unforgettable experiences.
“It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the opportunities on offer, with both children and adults embracing the activities and spending quality time together in a relaxed and supportive environment.
“It gave them the chance to make precious memories, connect with others who understand their experiences and enjoy special moments away from the challenges they may face in everyday life.”
The Big Family Fun Day was made possible through the support of a number of local businesses and entertainers, including 2020 Effect (African drumming), High Voltage Events (circus skills workshop, bubble workshop and stilt walker), Timmy Tickle (children’s entertainer), Candyfloss Cove (face painting), Monach Farm (petting farm and pony rides) and Ella Kerslake (hair braiding).
Ceri said she was also grateful to Peter from nearby Rectory Farm, who provided straw bales to help create the event’s festival atmosphere.
Pictures: Dik Ng/EACH
