The Asian Children’s Festival takes place November 21 – 29 in Singapore. Click here to see the KidsASIA! activities being offered at The Plaza, National Library Building and here to view the Fringe activities being offered at local libraries. Librarian and programme director, Ms. Haryani Othman says “2009 marks the tenth anniversary of ACF and we are BIGGER, BOLDER and BETTER this year! Kids can expect lots of exciting activities from ACF this year. Plus, what’s totally new this year is that we have got segments for parents too. All these programmes and workshops are free of charge too!”
The National Library Board of Singapore is proud to present the 9th Annual Asian Children’s Festival taking place from Nov 15 - 23. Started in 2001, the Asian Children’s Festival (ACF) promotes children’s literacy by providing opportunities for the creative and joyous learning of Asian content and culture among children. The free events, held at libraries throughout Singapore, feature internationally renowned children’s storytellers, writers, illustrators and puppeteers.
KidsASIA, the festival highlight and anchor event, will take place Nov 15 and 16 at Singapore’s National Library. This event showcases the culture, heritage and flavours of Asian communities, and families are encouraged to attend and “discover what makes growing up in Asia so special”. Five zones will be set up where families can enjoy hands-on activities (try the ancient marital art Aikido!) , or can sit back and be entertained by talented young musicians, dancers and storytellers.
Singapore librarian Ms. Chris Koh, tells me that this year a new program will debut at the festival - the Young Author’s Club. On Nov 15 at the Central Public Library, the Young Author’s Club will launch its audio books, adapted from stories written by 9 to 12 year olds and brought to life through the voices of 13 and 14 year olds from local schools. A story writing competition is also being held, with the grand winner receiving a scholarship to the Young Author’s Scheme.
Check out the Fringe Activites programme and see all the events being held throughout the week at local libraries! This year, attendance at the Asian Children’s Festival is expected to exceed 300,000. We would love to hear about your experiences if you attend!
