Children always look forward to having a vacation. And finally it came on the first day of summer- the International Child Protection Day! Since early morning many interesting activities were offered to girls and boys in Hesed. A holiday began with an entertaining quiz called "Do you know Jewish traditions?" The best contestants were Arina Kou and Valeriya Starkova; they lived in Israel, and their knowledge of this subject was not just theoretical.

  The psychologist Olga Grinberg carried out tests, training classes and merry games with children. Participants particularly liked a game called "Holiday Gift" in which everyone had to present something surprising and very important to the neighbour. Youngsters offered each other not only imaginary dolls or, to a frequently late child, an alarm clock, but also "happiness", "health", "round-the-world journey", "precious long-awaited reward".

  Our volunteer Irina Tikhonova also led remarkable training. Children selected manner in which they wished to communicate with the associates: some stretched a hand for the friendly handshake, others attempted to embrace a friend, and few held themselves at the respectful distance from others. Accompanied by soft background music, children moved in circle, choosing the method of contact with one or the other person. This psychological play made attitudes more amicable and open.

  Hayunya Fishelevna organised a quiz "The Entertaining Yiddish" and a competition for the best reader. After that we prepared sweet toasts in the club of Jewish cuisine "Hostess" and sprinkled them with chocolate shavings. It was delicious!

  The holiday continued. Kids watched a play "The Surprising Dream" and a dance programme prepared by Mariya Korolyova. Cheerful competitions, which included "UFO launching", Archery and ball games followed and were judged by parents Alexander Krasnikov (drama theatre actor) and Olga Korchemnaya. Yaroslava Gvozdevskaya, Arina Kou, Valeriya Starkova and Vladislav Korchemniy were recognized as the most skilful challengers.

  The comic diplomas were handed over to all the children with grades not only for "Actor's skill" or "Cookery", but also for such quality as generosity - an ability to give away the shirt off back, money and food, helping the friend out of trouble. In addition, marks for vigour, attentiveness, kindness and consideration were included.

  The culmination of the holiday was a walk in a park where everything was green and beautiful with birds singing, music played and various swings flying up to the sky.

  The next day we held "Happy starts" and watched a theatrical performance. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to "Hesed" and remarkable sponsors for making our childhood so happy!

Alla Korolyova