Curtains come down on CLAP For Fun programme

The National Public Library, Archives & Documentation Services (NPLADS) has just concluded another successful, fun-filled Children’s Library Annual Programme (CLAP For Fun) for 2016. This programme’s main objective is to expose children between the ages of five and 12 to our country’s heritage, through reading, lectures and art and craft. It is hoped that this exposure will foster national pride in our young people.{{more}}

This year’s programme was hosted under the theme ‘Around the World in 15 Days” and featured three exciting weeks of activities aimed at teaching participants about the various ethnic groups present in Vincentian society, as well as incorporating our own local Garifuna heritage.

Lectures were conducted by representatives from the Venezuelan, Taiwanese, Indian and Garifuna communities, where participants gained a wealth of knowledge on the history and culture of the various countries. Participants also received basic instruction in Taiwanese and Garifuna languages and were treated to one of Taiwan’s most popular dishes, rice noodles. The history and development of dance was also incorporated into the programme and participants were exposed to traditional Indian music, as well as two traditional dances, the Quadrille and the Punta.

The fun did not stop there. Participants also undertook a variety of craft, based on the cultural diversity present in the island, as well as visited several local sites, such as:

• The Heritage Museum and Science Centre

• Kayo Village at Argyle

• Taiwanese Agricultural Station in Rivulet

There was also a Fun Day at Rawacou Recreational Park for all participants.

The programme culminated with a cultural showcase from the participants through song, dance, drama, modelling and poetry. The participants were also entertained by two popular guests artistes, Hans John and Shernelle ‘Skarpyon” Williams, who had the children dancing and waving to some of their hit songs.

The CLAP For Fun Committee, and by extension the National Public Library, Archives & Documentation Services would like to thank all those who made CLAP For Fun 2016 an amazing success. We could not have done it without you. A heartfelt thank you is also extended to the many parents and children who have patronized our programme through the years, and we look forward to your continued support in the years to come.