Parks filled with joy

During the summer, four parks in Bro Gwendraeth and Bro Amman LMAs were transformed into vibrant havens of creativity and laughter, hosting a series of joy-filled Park Pop Ups that brought together families, volunteers, and local children. Michelle Lloyd made it happen.

215 children joined in the excitement, offering themed activities, crafts, games, and nourishing snack bags—all entirely free of charge.

From the outset, the atmosphere was one of anticipation and happiness. Each session had a unique theme to ignite the imagination and foster a sense of belonging among the children.

The first week launched with a spectacular Super Heroes event. Young attendees donned capes and masks, embracing their inner champions and learning about What Is a super hero and hearing why Jesus is Michelle’s Superhero.

Week Two saw the children stepping into the ancient narrative of David and Goliath. With crafts of swords and shields and pom-pom throwers and games inspired by this story of bravery and faith, the park was alive with laughter as children enacted their own playful battles and listened with rapt attention during story time.

Week three closed the series with the vibrant colours and hope of Noah’s Ark. Children crafted animal masks, built miniature arks out of Lego, and learned about kindness and care for all creatures. The creative energy was palpable, with every child bringing their own vision and flair to the crafts and activities.

A hallmark of the Park Pop Ups was the array of creative stations dotting each venue. Volunteers set up tables overflowing with colourful supplies, encouraging children to dive into arts and crafts. Brightly painted superhero masks, beaded friendship bracelets, and Lego creations formed a tapestry of ingenuity and collaboration.

Children worked together to build towers and ships, sharing ideas and lending hands to friends and newcomers alike. The bracelet-making station was particularly popular, with young artists proudly showing off their finished pieces, many choosing to make extra bracelets for siblings or parents. The crafts not only sparked creativity but also nurtured social connections and a sense of achievement.

No Park Pop Up would be complete without the storytelling circle, where volunteers and organisers gathered the children for moments of quiet wonder and reflection. Tales of superheroes, ancient warriors, and animal adventures echoed around, woven together with lessons of friendship, resilience, and hope.

Games—both classic and themed—filled the afternoons with movement and joy. favourites like football and volleyball and new games designed to fit each week’s theme. Children cheered each other on, learned new skills, and discovered the value of teamwork and fair play. The laughter of children running freely across the grass was a testament to the power of play in building community. God’s love shone through.