The Commission on Children today approved 43 applications for a total of $9.1 million in funding to support projects by childcare groups, non-governmental organisations and schools to promote children’s welfare.

Chairing the commission’s fifth meeting, Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung said about half of the applications made to the Funding Scheme for Children’s Well-being & Development aim to promote the healthy development of children.

Others focus on the development of children’s potential and talents, raising public awareness of children with special needs and promoting child protection.

“The scheme attaches great importance to children’s participation, and the awarded projects are able to provide children with a wide range of participation opportunities, including participation in the design of games to boost their creativity as well as theatre training and performance to nurture their communication and problem-solving skills."

Most projects also involve parents, teachers and other stakeholders to boost their understanding and communication with children, Mr Cheung added.