A series of free fun events for children between 5 and 17 years of age have been organised for National Play Day which takes at a number of locations in the Gap of Dunloe area on Saturday.

The aim of National Play Day is to promote play opportunities for children and young people all across the country, with this year’s theme being Playful Communities.

The National Play Day grant scheme is one part of the wider Summer of Play campaign, a government-led initiative designed to remind everyone, young and old, of the fundamental importance of play.

In Kerry, events on 7, 8 and 9 July, are being organised by the Kerry Community Response Forum which is coordinating the supports for Ukrainian refugees in the county, but events are open to all children between 5 and 17 years.

The two Gap of Dunloe events take place at 10am and 1pm on Saturday.

Play sessions for those aged 5-12 will be a time for children to play nature-based games, create some nature crafts and explore at their own pace in a supportive natural space. The play sessions for those aged 12-17 and will be a time for participants to learn some basic bushcraft skills, connect through nature-based activities, and to have time to explore in the outdoors at their own pace. The sessions are delivered by forest therapy providers and take place outdoors in areas of woodland.

Funding of €3,000 has been provided from Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for the National Play Day events in Kerry.

To register: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/national-play-day-kerry-tickets-377730872207