Old rest home great place for the kids these holidays

In an old converted rest home in Marton the ASK (After School Kids) holiday programme is in full swing.

Each day about 30 kids aged between 5 and 13 pile in for a day of fun activities while their parents head off to work.

Off a long central corridor are several rooms designated as rooms for a particular purpose.

There's a girls only room, a boys only room, a quiet room, a games room, a TV room, play room and of course a cosy kitchen.

In charge is nanny Serena Cranshaw assisted by child care worker and administration assistant Susan Gibbons.

Even though the noise level is at a constant roar punctuated with giggles, a few shouts of rage and dozens of energetic conversations, Serena said it's a happy place and the kids are always keen to be there every morning.

"They know their parents need to be at work and this is where they spend their days. We have a lot going on here and the kids love all the activities but most of all we have fantastic grounds so fine days are always popular," she said.

After School Kids is a CYF approved OSCAR (Out of School Care and Recreation) programme based at 123 Pukepapa Road, Marton.

The aim is to provide a safe, stimulating programme in a homely and caring environment.

After School Kids was founded in February 2001 by Christina and Alistair McNeill. They felt that there was a need for quality OSCAR care in the Rangitikei area.

ASK strives to be the best OSCAR programme in the area and Christina was awarded the Individual Category Regional Award at the National OSCAR Foundation Conference in 2007 for outstanding personal commitment to OSCAR.

This week the kids from 5-year-olds to a 13-year-old said being at ASK was fun.

"I love it here and there's always heaps of kids to play with. Some are really nice. It's good because it's not having like classes and teachers and stuff,'' said one small girl.

Trays of chocolate and vanilla muffins had just come out of the oven.

"We're going to decorate them and eat them "ALL" for afternoon tea,'' said another little girl.

"YAY", said three small boys.