The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) is currently taking place in Sharjah, offering a variety of activities for children of all ages. The festival, organized on the theme ‘Once Upon A Hero’, aims to make reading an enjoyable activity for everyone. With over 260 guests representing 25 countries and 186 publishers from 20 nations, the event is a hub of creativity and innovation. Children will have the opportunity to interact with writers, illustrators, and publishers, participate in workshops, and learn new skills.
One of the highlight activities at the festival is the Magic Carpet workshop, where children above the age of 8 can explore shadow painting techniques. Another interesting session is Ibn Majid’s Compass, which combines ancient navigation art with modern sustainability practices. Children can build their own compass using recycled materials and learn about the legendary Arab navigator Ahmad bin Majid. The festival also features a digital art studio where youngsters can unleash their creativity, a workshop to build bird feeders from recycled materials, and an opportunity to learn paper shaping to create detailed artwork.
In addition to creative workshops, the festival offers activities like scenario creation, cookery workshops inspired by fairy tales, and a Smash Room where attendees can release stress by smashing items. There is also a session on nurturing healthy screen time habits, aimed at promoting a balance between online and offline activities for children. The SCRF promises to be a fun and educational experience for children, providing them with opportunities to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and interact with renowned authors and artists.
The festival is a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to promoting reading and creativity among children. By bringing together authors, illustrators, and publishers from around the world, the event offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests and age groups. Whether children are interested in art, storytelling, or science, there is something for everyone at the SCRF. The festival not only encourages children to read and write but also instills in them a love for nature, creativity, and innovation.
Parents and guardians attending the festival can rest assured that their children will be engaged in meaningful and educational activities throughout the 12-day event. From building bird feeders to learning digital art and scenario creation, children will have the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their skills in a fun and interactive environment. The SCRF is more than just a reading festival; it is a platform for children to discover new talents, connect with like-minded individuals, and be inspired by the world of literature and art.