Among the activities were two crash courses in animal management for children, held by animal management officer Russell Karaitiana. Two sessions were held at Broadmeadows Town Hall to make children more aware about responsible ownership of domestic pets such as cats and dogs.

On the day, children learned about how to handle and approach dogs and not be scared of them.

They also learnt the importance of registration tags and microchipping of pets and what to do and who to call when they see feral cats or dogs wandering outside an owner's property.

At the Progress Community Hall in Coolaroo, children aged up to six got to play on a jumping castle, have their face painted and listen to stories told in

their native tongue at the Communities for Children activity day.

Community facilitator Cemile Yuksel said the event was designed to provide free entertainment for young children and to strengthen parents' relationships with the community.

"It is about getting everyone together to create social connections and to raise their awareness of our other free activities."

Two new DVDs were also launched at the event including Getting to Know You to help parents communicating with babies and toddlers, and Catching the Rainbow for industry professionals.

Details: Communities for Children, Cemile Yuksel on 93513645.