Toddler Project

Throughout the region there has been a significant increase in the number of parents who have come together to organise parent and toddler groups.

Started some three years ago in the Inverness area, with an initial staff of one, this area of  much needed support has grown rapidly with a team of four Parent and Toddler Group Facilitators and a Project Co-ordinator currently delivering this model of service to around 48 groups in Highland. Aims of the project are reviewed annually, see below.

Support is delivered to each group initially through two weekly visits where Facilitator’s in consultation with group members draw up an initial action plan of what the parents and children want from their group. Then through role modelling activities, information sharing and committee support they work together at a pace dictated by each group to meet their individual requirements. Support may be decreased to monthly then termly visits when appropriate, allowing more groups to access this level of support.

An important aspect of  visits is involving parents and children in planning short, simple activities for each session – children have great fun learning through play and parents/carers learn some new skills along the way! Activities include – story telling, music or song time, sensory trays, treasure baskets, home made play dough, water play, sand tray, parachute fun, Top Tots, sticking, gluing, finger painting, gloop and lots more – many from the invaluable Play @ Home series of books.

As part of their Continuous Professional Development, Facilitator’s meet up regularly to share information, ideas, best practice and keep up to date with current trends, legislation, and National Guidance. The team have developed a wide range of support materials and templates including committee information, grant funding and advice on suitable resources which are available free to groups on request.

Groups interested in accessing this type of support should contact the Inverness office.

The Aims of the Care & Learning Alliance Toddler Project:

To improve the quality of provision for all adults and children attending the under three’s group by:

 ·       Encouraging good practice in all aspects e.g. play, health and safety

 ·       Developing trusting relationships with parents and children

 ·       Empowering parents by involving them in all decision making for their group e.g. the planning and evaluation of activities

 ·       Developing a positive and inclusive ethos within the group and help meet the needs of every family

 ·       Sharing ideas and experience

 ·       Maximising the potential of the group and its members; developing confidence and skills

·       Promoting the use of ‘Play at Home’ with parents and carers

 ·       Supporting the adults in running the group effectively e.g. by providing committee advice and practical help

 ·       Promoting HPS – our aims and ethos, publicising our work when appropriate

•  Work within and promote Birth to Three Guidelines
•  Encourage liaison with relevant agencies and professionals
• Working at a pace that is dictated by group members

   Aims reviewed August 2006

  CALA can provide support to your parent and toddler group and give additional help on topics such as: 

  • Play
  • Learning for Life
  • Fun and Learning

  We can provide information, advice and training and assist with the development of your existing programme of activities. This can help to attract new members, retain existing members and provide examples of success from other parent and toddler groups.
  
  Norma Ruettimann
  
  Toddler Project Co-ordinator