Child Life Disaster Relief offers free play events to help Marianas children heal after Sinlaku

SAIPAN — Children across the Marianas will have a free, safe space to play and heal this month as Child Life Disaster Relief partners with Certified Child Life Specialists to host community events for families recovering from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

The events are open to all children and run on the same daily schedule at a different location each day. Mornings serve ages 3 to 7 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., with children ages 3 to 5 required to be accompanied by an adult. Lunch is open to all youth from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Afternoons serve ages 8 to 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Breakfast and lunch will be provided by the Public School System.

Organizers said the activities are designed to be child-led, allowing free expression and restoring a sense of control; culturally rooted, reflecting shared community values; and safe and supportive, helping children process feelings through fun and connection.

“As Saipan, Tinian, and Rota rebuild from Super Typhoon Sinlaku, our families’ healing comes first,” organizers said. “Our children are walking this recovery journey right alongside us, and losing their daily routines has left many feeling confused and frustrated. In these challenging times, their emotional well-being is our top priority.”

On Saipan, the events will be held at the Kagman Community Center on June 10, Ada Field on June 11, and the Koblerville Youth Center on June 12. On Tinian, events will run at Team KoKA from June 15 to 18.

Families can register by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or registering online.

Child Life Disaster Relief said its mission is captured in a single phrase: “One Community, One Heart, One Recovery.”

NMI News Service