An Unmissable Family Event Set to Ignite Curiosity and Creativity
Families, get ready to explore an entire world dedicated to learning, play, and imagination! From October 31 to November 2, Umm Al Emarat Park will come alive with the second edition of the Early Childhood Development Fair 2024, Abu Dhabi’s largest event for young learners held under the theme “Curiosity Can Take You Places.” Organized by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and held as part of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week, the fair is designed to inspire and educate children up to eight years old, offering experiences that blend fun and learning for the whole family.
What Awaits You at the Fair?
With over 50 interactive workshops, stage performances, storytelling sessions, and engaging activities, this year’s fair is packed with surprises. Families can dive into various learning zones that bring imagination to life, from hands-on art workshops and science demonstrations to lively cultural showcases. For families looking to spark a love of learning in their little ones, this is the event of the year!
A highlight is the immersive experience with the beloved OliOli team, where children can design their own race cars or create music by completing an electric circuit at the Musical Bench. Art lovers will enjoy activities like String Art and Giraffe Art, each designed to inspire creativity and teach valuable skills. Younger children under two are invited to special STEAM activities, with fascinating wind tunnels, sand light boxes, and color wheels that bring learning to life.
Culture, Heritage, and Eco-Friendly Fun
This year’s fair shines a spotlight on culture and heritage, inviting children to experience traditional Emirati crafts like Al Sadu weaving and pottery making, fostering an appreciation for local customs. Activities such as learning about native Emirati plants and pearl diving help young attendees discover the natural wonders and rich heritage of the UAE. Additionally, Arabic calligraphy sessions introduce children to the beauty of Arabic script, offering hands-on practice in this timeless art form.
Blending learning with fun, the fair also introduces children to the importance of sustainability through engaging activities focused on environmental responsibility. Young attendees can learn how to conserve resources and recycle materials with hands-on workshops that turn everyday items into eco-friendly creations, making sustainability an exciting and child-friendly experience.
Stage Performances and Interactive Play
No childhood fair is complete without a touch of theatrical magic! This year, the stage will be buzzing with Majid magazine characters, inviting kids to jump into interactive games, confidence-boosting competitions, and lots of audience fun. Kids are also in for a treat with live storytelling sessions hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism, where talented storytellers bring local tales to life, captivating young listeners and sparking a love for stories that will stay with them long after the fair ends.
Another crowd favorite is sure to be the Mohamed bin Zayed School of Falconry and Desert Physiognomy, where children and their families can experience falconry firsthand, learn about the tools and techniques of this cherished Emirati tradition, and explore the unique desert ecosystem.
The Perfect Outdoor Weekend Plan for Families
With so much to see and do, the Early Childhood Development Fair promises an unforgettable experience for families, offering children a vibrant space to explore, learn, and play in ways that encourage their natural curiosity. Beyond workshops and interactive play, the fair is filled with opportunities to make lasting memories with family-friendly activities, meet-and-greets, and a food court featuring a variety of local delights for visitors to enjoy between activities.
Taking place from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM each day at Umm Al Emarat Park, the fair is free and open to all, making it an ideal day out for families eager to spark creativity and curiosity in their children.
Don’t miss this chance to inspire young minds! For full event details and updates, visit ecdfair.ae.
