On Saturday 21 September, another ‘Game with Mum & Dad’ event was organised in the gymnasium of Jiřice Prison, Czech Republic, thanks to Prison Fellowship Czech Republic.
Sixteen children participated in the event, joining 10 imprisoned fathers on the playing field. These fathers, all serving long-term sentences, had in some cases not seen their children for up to four years. The game provided a rare and precious opportunity for these families to reconnect in a supportive and joyful setting, undersoring the critical importance of maintaining family bonds for the well-being of children, and parents in prison.
The day began with the fathers helping volunteers prepare the event space, setting up football goals, decorating the room and arranging tables. Many of the fathers were understandably nervous, unsure of how their children and caregivers would react after such long periods of separation. However, there was also palpable excitement in the air, as this was a unique opportunity for the fathers to spend extended time with their children—something they rarely get to do.
The football game was refeered by Alice Vévodová, the first Czech female international FIFA football referee and saw the participation of Czech actor Filip Tomsa, who is also a Prison Fellowship Czech Republic ambassador. While some of the youngest children were too small to play, they eagerly ran alongside their fathers, occasionally trying to kick the ball themselves.
Spending time with my dad was the best! – child, Czechia
(Čas strávený s tátou byl nejlepší!)
After lunch, the focus shifted from sports to creative activities – art workshops, board games and live music – which allowed parents and children to continue spending quality time together. Family photographs were taken, creating lasting memories of the day.
This event demonstrated the far reaching, positive potential of ‘Game with Mum & Dad’. For children with a parent in prison, interacting and playing in a relaxed setting like this one strengthens their relationship with their parent and enhances their well-being. For parents serving a sentence, it is a chance to actively participate in their children’s lives. For prison services, it offers alternative ways of accomodating families in prisons from a child-rights perspective.
For the general public, it shifts attitudes abouts prison and parental imprisonment.
All children, irrespective of their parent’s detention, are entitled to family life.
Prison Fellowship Czech Republic is an NGO supporting children and families impacted by parental imprisonment, as well as ex-offenders, through restorative justice, mentoring, aftercare and community support programs.
