SCRF: A festival embracing every child in multisensory world

Sharjah24: Whether you're a young comic book lover, a mystery solver in the making, or a fan of K-pop idols, this year’s Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) - being held at the Sharjah Expo Centre until May 4 – has something for every child with every interest, ability and imagination.

An inclusive, Multilingual world at SCRF

Talking about an inclusive, multilingual world at SCRF, more publishers are catering to a wide spectrum of readers. They offer books for every stage—from early readers at 6+, tweens at 9+, to adults—with an impressive selection in both Arabic and English. Mohammad Khalil, Production Manager at Kalimat Group, highlighted their collection of over 300 titles covering every age group, aiming to spark a love for Arabic reading from the earliest age while providing diverse options in English.

The magic of storytelling

The magic of storytelling at SCRF 2025 knows no boundaries, welcoming children and families of all abilities. Indian mother Rashminah Usman brings her son Omar every year to engage in activities specially designed for neurodivergent children. She emphasizes that for Omar, it’s about feeling, hearing, and creating, making SCRF a world that embraces his unique experience.

Celebrating diversity and inclusion

For Melia, a mother of a child with Down syndrome, SCRF has been a cherished destination for years. She notes that her daughter feels included in the celebration, with sensory workshops and interactive storytelling affirming, "You belong." AbdulRehaman, who escorts his father Amir to the festival, appreciates the accessibility and vibrancy that SCRF offers, bridging generations through books.

A World for every reader

The diversity at SCRF extends beyond books and workshops. From colorful pasta-making to robotics and retro video game books, this year’s festival showcases a world for every reader. In Creators' Alley, sisters Tamara Mohammed and Rama blend storytelling with crafts, engaging children and fostering connections.

Excitement and engagement

At the heart of the festival, 11-year-old Rabia Khan expresses her excitement after visiting the Sherlock Holmes Exhibition, and young reader Yacoub Adam revels in the Comics Corner, embodying his favorite stories. Meanwhile, Juma Annageldi from Turkmenistan adds to the festival's vibrant atmosphere with playful ice cream tricks, emphasising the joy of creating unforgettable memories.

A culinary experience

Inclusivity also reigns at the food courts, offering a variety of flavors from colorful Korean coins to traditional Emirati meals. With over 600 interactive workshops and activities running from April 23 to May 4, this year’s SCRF has transformed into a multilingual, multisensory playground where every child can find their voice and joy.