Toddler Groups Initiative
The Toddler Groups Initiative provides support and development for baby and toddler groups.
The Council's focus is to help parents help themselves. As a result, most of the baby and toddler groups in Stevenage are run by parents for parents and their children.
The Toddler Groups Initiative, established in 1998, has played a major role in the development and support of many of these groups.
The aim of the Toddler Groups Initiative is to:
- Support existing toddler groups to ensure good quality play opportunities.
- Help struggling toddler groups to survive and develop.
- Develop new toddler groups in partnership with parents and carers.
- Work with those concerned with Early Years to raise the quality of baby and toddler provision.
Since the Initiative began 20 groups have received Grant Aid from the Council. Grants have been used for:
- Educational play equipment and baby equipment.
- Musical instruments.
- Multi-cultural equipment.
- Set up costs for new groups.
There are currently 29 Baby & Toddler Groups in Stevenage running 38 sessions per week. These include a group for grandparents and their grandchildren and the AWAAZ Group for parents and carers who have English as an additional language.
The Toddler Groups Initiative provides workshops to encourage groups to offer improved play opportunities. These have included Cold Cooking, Painting, Glueing and Sand and Water. It also provides other training opportunities such as First Aid.
The Initiative also supports the Toddler Groups Forum. Representatives from all Baby and Toddler Groups can get together, share ideas, discuss current issues and find out who to go to for financial help, guidance and support.
The Toddler Groups Initiative continues to explore new projects and support all Baby and Toddler Groups in Stevenage.