Where can kids sing, dance, have fun, and learn? Kidchella is the location that is taking enriching the lives of young people to another level. This past weekend the kids and I enjoyed a Friday night filled with arts, learning, fun, food, and smiles all thanks to Smith Playground and the various organizations that were represented.
Before you go to Kidchella
Kidchella is a family oriented fun time. So come ready to play. Tickets can be purchased ahead or on the scene. The expectations is to have fun so understand that Kidchella is rain or shine. Come prepared with a few key items. Make sure you to pack ponchos, sunblock, reusable water cups, and wear comfortable shoes. It is a lot of running and playing so you want your child to feel comfortable. You as a parent want to be as comfortable as possible. There are several food trucks available outside of the venue for purchase. Many of them are cashless. So plan to use some form of mobile payment. The one used the most was Venmo.
There will be plenty of tables from organizations with resources such as Girls Inc., Maternity Care Coalition and more. The goals is to be on the premises offering solutions for care for all of Philadelphia. The community outreach plays a big hand in the event.
Art at Kidchella
There several art activations. From 4-5:30 is the art portion of the event. Things ranging from jewelry making to collages and more will be on hand. A special shout out to Whyy who made sure to showcase their two new shows, Albie’s Elevator and Infinite Art were on deck. FYI, the show is on the WHYY YouTube. They brought with them all kinds of art work to be done and enjoy. The art is a great way for kids to express their creativity. My own children enjoyed the art work and my oldest is 14. The ability to take their artwork home is always great too. All supplies are free and supplied by Whyy and Smith Playground.
An observation that I saw was the volunteers who were there to assist. They were all warm and welcoming. There were a lot of questions that parents had like how long an activation would be available and more. Each staff member was courteous and answered each question to the best of their ability.
Games and Play
I seen so many amazing children run, play, jump, and simply exist in their element. So be prepared to walk around exploring. There is a lot to do. From swings, climbing, slides and more each child picked their activity of choice. Musical chairs was also a lot of fun not just for the kids but for the adults too. It was refreshing to see the adults get into the swing of things too.
A few observations with children at play was that the adults really are raising dynamic children. The entire time there was not one meltdown that wasn’t met with respect for others. Kids and some adults struggle with learning how to share space. The kids at Kidchella looked out for one another.
Live Music at Kidchella
What would be a music festival for kids without live music? The music was phenomenal. The music included Ill Doots. When I say they had to be one of the most interactive music groups for kids that I have ever seen. Natural performers who knew how to entertain and get on the kids level. It was refreshing to say the least. In addition, Ill Doots had a powerhouse of a singer with them, Kendrah Waters.
Another performance I loved was The Foxy Doxies. This group engaged the crowd with so much talent. It is always amazing to see the raw talent that is of Philly. The way the group used simple sounds and rhythmic songs to empower movement was beautiful to see.
Missed Kidchella?
If you missed Kidchella this past weekend there is one more opportunity to see them on Friday, August 18, 2023 from 4-7 featuring Much City Love and Jams for Junior Jawns. If you remember I interviewed M’balia Singley who is the creator of Jams for Junior Jawn on the podcast, Conversations with Toi. Come out and bring your children, family members, and more. It should be an amazing way to run, jump, play, sing, and dance for Kidchella.
