Joyous Childhood Family event returns for another celebration
- The Joyous Childhood Family event is set for Saturday, 17 January 2026, at Les Beaucamps High School.
- This year's event focuses on the significance of early childhood experiences in brain development.
- Over 25 local agencies will participate, offering interactive activities aimed at early development.
- Families can secure free tickets for a screening of ‘Tabby McTat’ and enjoy various stalls throughout the day.
- The event promotes practical ideas for parents to support their children’s development at home.
The Joyous Childhood Family event will take place on Saturday, 17 January 2026, from 9.30 am to 12 pm at Les Beaucamps High School.
Organised by the States Early Years Team, this free event aims to celebrate the significance of early years and raise awareness about how early childhood experiences influence brain development and long-term outcomes.
Research indicates that the most substantial period of brain growth occurs from conception to the age of five, highlighting the importance of positive early experiences for a child's overall wellbeing.
To support this initiative, more than 25 local agencies will set up stalls, including the Health Improvement Commission, Home-Start, Bright Beginnings Children's Centre, Kindred Family Centre, Wigwam, and Help a Guernsey Child. Each stall will provide enjoyable, interactive "brain boosting" activities tailored to promote early development.
In addition, families are encouraged to register for free tickets to attend a screening of ‘Tabby McTat’ by Magic Light Pictures. A total of 600 tickets will be available for booking, although families without tickets are still welcome to enjoy the stalls and activities throughout the event.
Children under five with a pre-booked ticket will receive a complimentary goodie bag. While the activities are primarily designed for children aged 0–5 years, older siblings may also participate.
Zara Betts, Specialist Early Years Speech and Language Therapist, remarked, “Raising young children can be challenging, and many local families are facing additional pressures such as the cost of living and the increasing impact of navigating the digital environment as children develop.”
She added that the event aims to share up-to-date research with parents and carers, providing practical ideas and activities families can engage in at home.
Ruth Sharp, Head of Early Years, stated, “We look forward to welcoming children under five, their parents and guardians to the Joyous Childhood Family event. As well as being enormous fun, the day promises to be a chance to get tips, insights, support and ideas to help give our children the best possible start in life.”
Nick Hynes, Director of Education, emphasised that “It’s brilliant to see the Joyous Childhood Family Event back by popular demand. The Early Years is a super priority in the proposed Government Work Plan and this is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with parents, carers, and experts in their various fields.”
The event has been made possible through the support of sponsors including Help a Guernsey Child, Investec Bank, Channel Islands Co-Operative, and Milton Produce.
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