Kids, brace for fun days ahead as this year’s Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) has lined up 409 activities for you to enjoy throughout the event’s run from October 30 until November 9.

The SIBF’s jam-packed Kids Programme will be led by 28 guests from 13 countries and feature an array of educational, cultural and entertainment activities all designed to spark children’s creativity, curiosity and passion for learning.

Entities and experts from the UAE and around the world – including US, Italy, Lebanon, Greece, Jordan, Syria, Egypt and the Netherlands – will be conducting workshops.

One of them is called ‘The Magic of Writing’, to be led by Ann Marie Rowland from the US. She will be waving a ‘magic stick’ to ignite children’s imaginations for a story-writing exercise.

Another session themed ‘Cinderella and the World’ will be conducted by Annemiek During from the Netherlands. Antonello Ghezzi from Italy will get kids to create their own ‘starry night’ using a metal plate and ink, while Deborah Reed from the US will focus on the art of writing for readers.

The Prevention and Safety Authority (PSA) will be raising awareness and educating youngsters on how to avoid possible risks in their environment, while the Media Cultural Office (MCO) will conduct a workshop that combines painting and writing.

There will also be a session called ‘A Walk in the Market’, which highlights the importance of listening to parents and asking the police for help. It will be put together by the Child Safety Department (CSD).