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Kiddiesville FC website kicks off
22/11/2004
A new website that aims to get young children thinking
and talking about different cultures was launched
today.
As part of the Executive's One Scotland, Many Cultures
campaign, the Kiddiesville FC website is based in a
children's football team with cartoon characters from a
range of backgrounds and abilities.
It contains stories about each member of the team,
games, guidance for adults, music, and competitions.
Children using the website are encouraged to accept and
value different cultures and religions, think ability - not
disability, respect others and play fair.
www.kiddiesvillefc.com was inuagurated by children from Preston Street and
Forthview primaries in Edinburgh taking part in a football
tournament at Meadowbank Stadium.
Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm said:
"Sometimes, the experiences of those from minority
ethnic communities are not positive and don't reflect the
international image Scotland has as a welcoming and
friendly place.
"Through One Scotland, Many Cultures, we have
highlighted the unacceptability of discrimatory attitudes
and behaviour. We know from evaluating this campaign that
we must do more to give youngsters the confidence to
embrace and celebrate Scotland's diversity.
"This new website gives teachers, parents and others
working with children a fun and imaginative resource to
encourage acceptance and discourage prejudice and
bigotry."
David Taylor, Chief Executive of the Scottish Football
Association which has endorsed the site, said:
"I welcome imaginative ideas such as the Kiddiesville FC
website which is designed to promote fair play for all.
Using football and the latest technology, youngsters can
have loads of fun and learn important things about life at
the same time".
Roddy McNulty, Educational Development Worker from Show
Racism the Red Card, said:
"Show Racism the Red Card are pleased to give their
wholehearted support to the Kiddiesville FC website. This
resource will be a strong addition to the intolerance
message that is vital for young people to understand at the
youngest possible age."
The website is primarily targeted at children aged
between three and eight years old and has been produced in
consultation with the Scottish Football Association, the
Scottish Professional Football Association, Show Racism the
Red Card and head teachers from the three schools involved
in its pilot.
The Executive is providing £75,000 over three years to
Show Racism the Red Card. For more information visit
www.srtrc.org.