Thanks to Staedtler here is your chance to win one of 3 x Staedtler Drawing Packs valued at $50.00 each.

Australian children participate in global art initiative
World Kids Colouring Day - May 6, 2012

For the fifth consecutive year, writing instrument company STAEDTLER and Save the Children have joined forces globally in support of World Kids Colouring Day. Children are again invited to participate in this colouring campaign to help disadvantaged children. The concept is simple; children sell their artworks to raise funds which contribute to Savethe Children in Australia.

On World Kids Colouring Day, creativity knows no bounds: Whether individual pictures, colourfully drawn illustrated stories, picture galleries or exhibitions of children's art - the last four years has inspired an infinite range of artworks! More than 900,000 children worldwide participated in World Kids Colouring Day in 2011, creating imaginative and wonderful pictures at group and school events or at home.

This year's colouring theme is 'Comic Heroes'- children are encouraged to draw their own superheroes - and how they can make the world a better place.

STAEDTLER is calling upon all teachers, educators and parents to organise their own colouring events at school, kindergarten and home in support of World Kids Colouring Day May 6, 2011.

Getting started is simple, visit www.world-kids-colouring-day.com.au where you will find:

· Registration page for schools and organisations.
· Support material for young comic artists incl. World Kids Colouring Day magazine with step-by-step instructions on cartoon drawings and a range of pictures to support participation.
· Teaching resources - developed by teachers for teachers to assist with lessons.
· General information (how to contribute and make donations), and ideas on how to participate in the program (e.g. art exhibition, art auction, colouring day, sponsors for individual artworks etc...)

Deadline for artwork submissions to STAEDTLER is June 1st. A panel will make a selection of best artworks and distinguish one artist and one group of artists with the 'Budding Comic Artist Award 2012.' STAEDTLER will also recognise the highest donation nationally with a STAEDTLER colouring set valued at $500.

The universal language of pictures is understood the world over and unites children on all continents. Colouring is an important form of expression, especially for small children still discovering their world. World Kids Colouring Day needs the support of adults to co-ordinate the fundraising events, encourage children to participate, and to help children understand how their contribution can change the world of a child less fortunate.

As the world's leading independent organisation for children, Save the Children delivers programs in over 120 countries, including Australia. Despite Australia's wealth and high standard of living, many children struggle to reach their potential because they don't have access to education, healthcare, and protection services. Funds collected from STAEDTLER's World Kids Colouring Day in 2012 will continue to support Save the Children's education, health and wellbeing, and protection programs to brighten the outlook for many Australian children.

Paul Cashmore, Managing Director of STAEDTLER (Pacific) Pty Ltd, "STAEDTLER Australia is committed to this annual event and its contribution to a meaningful, positive change through the support of Save the Children.We want to emphasise how important colouring is for child developmentand make a difference to the security and stability of those children who need it most - those who do not have the chance for an adequate start to equip them for the future."

Suzanne Dvorak, CEO of Save the Children, Australia, explains: "We work in urban, rural and remote settings across Australia to ensure that children are happy and safe. Our Early Learning Centres provide children the opportunity to enjoy safe and supported play, while providing opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for school." Suzanne continues "With the support of World Kids Colouring Day, children around Australia are helping other children in their own backyard, grow up to have a safe and happy childhood".

STAEDTLER is proud to be the initiator of World Kids Colouring Day held May 6th each year globally, to help more children in need.

For further company and product information visit: www.staedtler.com.au

For information on World Kids Colouring Day visit: www.world-kids-colouring-day.com.au

---

As one of the leading international manufacturers of writing, colouring and drawing instruments, STAEDTLER applies sound environmental protection programmes as part of its 'efficient for ecology' ethic. STAEDTLER's philosophy as 'a brand with tradition shaping its future' describes both the origin and dedication of the company. Quality, innovation, design and functionality characterise all STAEDTLER products. STAEDTLER has also introduced the first coloured pencil with an integrated Anti-Break-System (ABS). The innovative white ABS coating reinforces the lead making STAEDTLER coloured leads up to 30% more break resistant (over non-ABS pencils.)

---