Playtime -
equipping parent and toddler group leaders

"Toddler groups are incredibly important. They allow children to learn and have fun, while their parents can find support and friendship. However, I know myself that running a toddler group can be extremely hard work! That's why Playtime is here - we want to help, encourage and inspire group leaders in their vital work, week by week." - Naomi Buckler, Playtime Project Manager.

Playtime will help you to:

• Link up with, and gain insight from, other parent and toddler groups
• Equip you to support parents and families more effectively
• Share your own thoughts and experiences
• Become part of a Network of parent and toddler groups nationwide

Playtime email newsletter
Playtime is a free email newsletter exclusively for the leaders of organised groups of parents, grandparents and carers who meet together regularly with mainly under 3s for chat, friendship and fun.

Events
The Playtime Conferences
These Care for the Family conferences offer a unique opportunity for parent and toddler team leaders to get together to inspire, encourage and equip each other and to benefit from the experience of others. Click here to book your place at one of the Playtime 2008 Conferences.

Click here for printable copies of the 'Best practice' questionnaire from the Playtime 2007 conference session notes (PDF).

Playtime Network
Networking allows toddler group leaders to meet others with the same heart and vision, and provides encouragement and inspiration. You can share local news, training, prayer requests, and even toys! To help you contact group leaders in your area, Playtime has put together a list of toddler group networks from around the country (PDF).

Let us know if you would like to add details of your toddler group network to the list. And if there isn’t one in your area yet, the Summer 2007 issue of the Playtime newsletter (PDF) is full of ideas for starting a network.

Craft ideas and Activities
Here are some simple crafts and activities for your toddler group. You can share your own craft or activity ideas by sending us simple instructions (with a digital photo, if appropriate), and we’ll put the best ideas on the web for others to share. Send them to Playtime@cff.org.uk marked ‘Playtime craft idea for website’.

Click here – or the logo on the right hand side – to view these crafts and activities.