Children of Multyfarnham celebrate Wild Child Day

Multyfarnham’s Tidy Towns hosted “Wild Child Day” as part of National Heritage week. The day was put together for the children of Westmeath and aimed to promote not only cultural practices, but the biodiversity of the county as well.

Children participating had an opportunity to explore and create while connecting with their natural surroundings.

Tidy Towns volunteers gave their time, support and expertise mentoring the children as they all got stuck in.

Gaine Park in Multyfarnham now features a new “Bug Hotel”. Built by the children who took part, the hotel is made from natural materials and provides a home for the insects. It also gave the kids the chance to learn about the wildlife that resides in their environment.

The Multyfarnham Men’s Shed, particularly Pauric Mooney, supervised the building of a Fairy House for the Village Green.

The children's imaginations got a work out as the beavered away painting and decorating this delightful hideaway for the mystical fairies.

Stone painting was also a feature of the “Wild Child Day”.

Local Artist Caithriona Devine demonstrated the joy of painting with natural, available materials, such as locally sourced stones.

With themes inspired by the efforts of the Tidy Towns, children painted an array of foliage, flowers and insects.

All in all, Wild Child Day proved to be a wonderful way to celebrate Heritage Week.

Christina Sweeney, Westmeath County Council Biodiversity Officer gave her time, enthusiasm, and helpful support for this event.

Multyfarnham Tidy Towns Volunteers continue their daily activities in the community allotment growing produce, maintenance of window boxes, hanging baskets, flowering shrubs, and flowers planted all around the village.

In practice Multyfarnham Tidy Towns strives towards biodiversity, and sustainability with an emphasis on involving all sectors of the community.