The morning of 16th February was the best time I have had in a very long time.

The event for special (autistic) children was organised by Kilikili. I got to know of it through iVolunteer's emails. I called up the coordinator to confirm that I will be volunteering that day. I reached Coles Park by 9.30am and met Prarthana from iVolunteer. Her volunteering work is quite impressive. I also met two other volunteers, Krishnaveni and Merlin.

One by one, the parents and children reached the park premises. The kids were shy initially but slowly I got to know them. Some 20 kids came running into the play area and occupied the swings, slides and the see-saw. The naughty kids would say to us 'Aunty push! (the swing)'. I learnt that these kids are from the school for the hearing impaired. Some among them were normal kids too. I learnt that the sand pit is also a favourite with the kids. They build castles or play with the sand toys.

Kavita's son Ananth was celebrating his 6th birthday that day along with Sidharth whose birthday was on the following day. There were balloons, caps, cakes, candles, chips and everything needed for a party!!!

I couldn't inflate a balloon without the help of a pump. And there was a granny who inflated several balloons with her mouth!! We tied up the colourful balloons along the fence and later distributed one to each kid gathered there.

We gathered all the kids at one place for the cake cutting and celebration. It was nice to see the smiling faces of all the kids. They looked adorable wearing the birthday hats. We all sang 'Happy Birthday' and distributed cake and chips to all those present.
All new parents were asked to register. Merlin noted the e-mail IDs and contact numbers of all of them.
Finally at around 11.30am, it was time to leave. The happy faces of the kids made all the time and effort spent worth it.

I always thought the best way to spend Saturday mornings was to relax at home. But now, I know that the best way to spend that time is to be with these special kids.