What happens when creativity replaces barriers? At a special Children’s Day celebration in Astana, art, music and simple human connection helped dozens of children with special needs shine, DKNews.kz reports.
For many families, International Children’s Day is about gifts and entertainment.
For the children who gathered at Kazakhstan’s Presidential Center this week, it became something much bigger — a chance to express themselves, make new friends and feel seen.
The inclusive event "From Heart to Heart" was held as part of the art therapy program The Enchanting World of Art, bringing together children with special needs, parents, volunteers and specialists for a day built around creativity and support.
Around 30 children took part.
More Than Just a Holiday
The event was organized by the Presidential Center of the Administrative Office of the President of Kazakhstan, the Society of Children with Disabilities of Astana and the Psychological Center My Revival, with support from the Astana branch of the AMANAT Party.
For nearly two decades, the initiative has focused on helping children adapt, socialize and discover their potential through art and interactive activities.
Opening the event, Serik Sydykov, Advisor to the Director of the Presidential Center of Kazakhstan, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
"The Presidential Center is always open to initiatives aimed at supporting children and developing their creative potential. Our mission is to create conditions in which children can feel cared for and confident, because every child is talented in their own way. Today’s gathering is yet another opportunity to bring joy to children."
Where Art Becomes a Language
For children with special needs, art often becomes more than a hobby.
It becomes a way to communicate emotions that can be difficult to put into words.
That idea was at the heart of the celebration's art therapy sessions, where participants created crafts and artwork under the guidance of professional psychologists.
According to organizers, the goal was not artistic perfection, but self-expression, confidence and emotional connection.
"Art therapy is a unique bridge that helps children with special needs open up and relieve emotional stress, while enabling parents to strengthen that delicate bond with their child," said Alvina Yusupova, Head of the Psychological Center My Revival.
"The greatest reward for us is seeing hearts come alive by the end of the celebration through the children’s sincere participation."
Music, Theatre and Big Smiles
The creative program extended far beyond the workshops.
Students from the Makhambet Utemisov Palace of Schoolchildren brought the stage to life with a series of performances that captivated both children and parents.
The vocal ensemble Saryn performed the touching song Baqyt ("Happiness"), while the ensemble Zhalyn impressed the audience with a virtuoso rendition of the traditional kui Korogly.
One of the emotional highlights came during the theatrical performance "When the Heart Awakens."
Presented by volunteer students, the production ended with an interactive flash mob that quickly transformed into one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Children joined hands, danced together and exchanged warm hugs in a scene that perfectly reflected the event's message of inclusion and friendship.
Every Child Deserves a Chance to Shine
By the end of the celebration, the room was filled with colorful handmade crafts, laughter and proud parents taking photos.
But organizers say the real result could not be measured in souvenirs or performances.
It was visible in the children's smiles, growing confidence and willingness to engage with the world around them.
The event concluded with commemorative gifts for all participants, ending a day that once again proved a simple truth:
When children are given the space to create, they often reveal strengths that surprise everyone — including themselves.
