Dubai: Committed to fostering a love of reading and positive values in young people, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) took part in the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival. Over two days, the Foundation hosted engaging storytelling and interactive activities for children at the Reading Corner in Expo Centre Sharjah. Students actively participated in these sessions, including a special group of 6 to 11-year-olds from Al Adhba School.

Led by Fatima Al Balooshi and Sabah Deebi, the Foundation presented the story “The Pencil Who Found Himself”, which was originally launched at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library on World Children's Day 2023. The story was introduced in conjunction with National Bullying Prevention Week, an initiative supported by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation. Over the course of the festival, DFWAC conducted seven storytelling sessions in Arabic, reaching more than 230 children.

The story follows the journey of a pencil that comes to understand its worth through a series of imaginative adventures. It encourages young readers to embrace their individuality, express themselves with confidence, and develop empathy and kindness, especially in the face of bullying.

H.E. Sheikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director General of Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, stated that the organised reading sessions were tailored to support the Foundation’s mission to raise awareness among children, protect them from bullying, and instil positive values through reading.

“Through such sessions, we seek to provide children with an engaging reading experience that stimulates them to ask questions, express their feelings, and develop self-appreciation. This, in turn, would enhance their self-confidence and help them discover their talents while building their personalities,” she said.

Al Mansouri added that storytelling, especially when delivered interactively, is an effective educational tool in shaping a child’s awareness and guiding them toward positive growth.
Sheikha Al Mansouri also expressed her gratitude to the Sharjah Book Authority for its invitation to participate in this cultural event and for its ongoing efforts to support initiatives that promote children's awareness and contribute to building a literate, educated generation.
“Reading to children is not just a recreational activity; it’s an effective way to guide their thinking, shape their behaviour, and strengthen their inner communication,” said Fatima Al Balooshi, while expressing her happiness at participating in the festival. “The story of ‘The Pencil’ carries an impactful message: every child holds value and possesses the ability to change, create, and overcome, no matter their circumstances,” Al Balooshi added. 
Meanwhile, Sabah Deebi added: “Through such reading sessions, we strive to boost children's understanding of their self-worth and capabilities, while also promoting empathy and the spirit of sharing among peers.”  Deebi described storytelling as “a window into children's dreams and ambitions, one that helps them explore their identity and potential more deeply.”

The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival is one of the region’s leading annual cultural events. It offers a comprehensive platform to cultivate a love of reading among younger generations, bringing together renowned writers, publishers, and experts in children’s literature. The festival also features educational, and entertainment programmes designed to enrich young minds and stimulate creativity and curiosity.