Our Stay & Play Toddler Group project aims to improve the mental health and well-being of parents and carers with children under three, focusing on the importance of social connection and emotional support. We are expanding our existing group by offering two sessions three times a week, providing more opportunities for parents to connect in a welcoming and safe environment.
This expansion addresses two main challenges. Many parents miss out on sessions due to their child having a difficult morning, which leads to isolation and missed opportunities for socialising and support. By offering more sessions, we increase flexibility, helping families attend and connect with others. Additionally, we support new parents who may be overwhelmed by post-natal depression, financial stress, and the emotional toll of the cost of living. Our sessions offer a safe space for these families to build confidence and self-esteem while integrating into the community.
The group is intentionally small to ensure everyone feels supported. Parents and children engage in a relaxed environment where children can play freely, and parents are encouraged to interact with staff and each other. This structure creates a safe, emotionally supportive space. We also provide refreshments to address food poverty, as many families come from deprived areas.
Over time, we've seen significant improvements in parents' mental health and well-being. Parents have shared how attending the group has been life-changing, particularly for those who have felt isolated or overwhelmed. The group has helped them rebuild confidence and feel supported, making them feel less alone in their parenting journey. The project also facilitates knowledge-sharing, with experienced parents offering advice on topics like developmental milestones and newer parents sharing insights on current guidelines, such as weaning.
The impact extends beyond the parents attending. By hosting our sessions at Source Tea Rooms, we support young adults with learning disabilities, who provide catering for the group. This collaboration strengthens our ties with local organisations and enriches the community. We have also opened sessions to grandparents, fostering intergenerational connections and sharing perspectives on parenthood.
Our project’s success has been greatly enhanced by Elevate, which has increased our confidence in community development and expanded our network. Through Elevate’s support, we have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges parents face, particularly those with mental health or learning disabilities, and raised awareness of these issues in the community.
We have tackled several important issues, including mental health, poverty, and access to support services. By discussing challenges like post-partum depression, maternity pay, and childcare costs, we provide a non-judgmental environment where parents can share experiences and find support. The project has also had a positive impact on the wider community by supporting the local economy and promoting inclusion for people with learning disabilities.
Our approach to community development is rooted in collaboration and shared learning. Participants suggest topics for discussion, such as sleep deprivation and financial hardship, making sessions relevant and tailored to their needs. This creates a supportive space where parents share solutions, leaving the group feeling more positive and equipped to face challenges.
Overall, this project has transformed parents' lives and contributed to a stronger, more connected community where everyone feels valued and empowered.
