by Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On January 11, 2025, Stellar Don Bosco Nerul organized its first play date for special children—a unique initiative stemming from the Support Group for parents. Recognizing the importance of creating joyful, inclusive spaces for children, this initiative aims to encourage play, self-expression, enjoyment, and most importantly, the formation of friendships.

Started by Ms Wenonah Castellino, Advisor at Don Bosco Academy (DBA), with the unwavering support from Fr Barnabe D’Souza, Director of DBA, the Support Group and play dates have steadily gained popularity. The initiative is backed by collaborators including Don Bosco Prafulta, Nerul, Rotary Club of Smart City Navi Mumbai, Vashi, and DB Academy.

Play dates are much more than just recreational activities; they are vital for growth. These events help children improve social skills, boost confidence, enhance communication, and learn to navigate social situations. By engaging in activities that require sharing, turn-taking, and teamwork, children build friendships and develop emotional resilience. Our play dates provide a safe, judgment-free environment where children can enjoy themselves while learning essential aspects of social behaviour.

The event welcomed 20 children aged between 5 to 28 years with varying cognitive abilities. Activities were thoughtfully curated to foster teamwork, collaboration, and pure joy. One highlight was the memorandum station, where children left handprints or imprints of their choice, accompanied by their names, creating lasting keepsakes of the day.

The carefully planned activities included Musical Freeze Dance, where children danced to lively tunes, and a Nature Hunt, which encouraged them to explore and collect scattered leaves, flowers, and twigs, placing them in labelled bags. The bubble-blowing session brought delight to all, filling the air with laughter and sparkling smiles. Smilies and stars were awarded to all the children to encourage participation.

Parents were equally thrilled. Many shared how their children often faced exclusion in traditional play settings or had spent extended periods at home without social interaction. For some, this was a rare opportunity for their child to connect and engage with others. The smiles on both parents’ and children’s faces made the effort worthwhile, and the positive feedback was heartening. Parents expressed their desire for more such events, appreciating the platform for their children to feel included and accepted.

This initiative is a testament to the belief that every child deserves a space where they can grow, learn, and simply be themselves. By carefully designing games and activities that promote social bonding and emotional growth, DBA aims to create more meaningful experiences for children and their families.