ACTIVITIES ranging from face painting and bouncy castles to skateboarding and crafts will feature at the annual Short Breaks Fun Day at Newport’s Medina Leisure Centre on Friday.
The free event is open to everyone, particularly children and young people with disabilities and/or with special needs.
No booking is required for the event, which will showcase activities held on the Island, as part of the Short Breaks scheme, throughout the year, and feature plenty of activities to enjoy, which will include face painting, bouncy castles, games, skateboarding and arts and crafts.
There will be opportunities to chat to local activities providers and find out more about facilities for activities.
Cllr Paul Brading, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for children’s services, said: “While the Short Breaks programme primarily works to increase the participation of children and young people, all children and their families are welcome to attend this free event and see what opportunities are available on our Island.”
There is also free parking, free refreshments and a raffle.
The council’s Short Breaks programme offers a range of after-school clubs, evening and weekend activities, as well as overnight stays for children and young people with disabilities and or/additional needs, up to their 19th birthday. 
Additionally, Short Breaks provides a range of facilities for families to use. To participate in Short Breaks activities, you must have a Gateway Card Plus, which is free and can be applied for online at www.iwight.com/shortbreaks
Cards can also be applied for at the Short Breaks fun day. Just make sure to bring along a passport size photo of your child or children on the day.  
The event runs from 10am to 4pm.