Saturday 26 September, Wigan
Each year we bring together church toddler group leaders and volunteers to celebrate the laughter, the mishaps, and the unseen ministry that happens every week in your group.
In 2026, we’ll be exploring how we can be bearers of light and how our toddler groups can illuminate the lives of those around us.
A flavour of the day …
- A fantastic choice of workshops packed with fresh and creative ideas for your toddler group
- A great line-up of guest speakers providing encouragement and insight
- Unique opportunities to network with other toddler group leaders from across the UK
- Time to worship, share and pray together
- Lunch and refreshments included
- An exhibition zone and shop filled with resources
- A chance to renew your vision and feel recharged to continue the incredible job you’re doing!
'I really had lost my motivation over the last month and wondered if I should continue. You've reignited my fire. Thank you.'
Meet the speakers
Main speakers – Rob and Dianne Parsons
Rob and Dianne are the founders of Care for the Family. Between them, they have spoken to millions of people across the world, from blue-chip companies and governments, to parenting events and women’s events. They have written over 30 books, including Di’s latest book, A Season of Wonder and Rob’s latest, A Knock at the Door. Rob and Di live in Cardiff and have two adult children and five grandchildren.
Main speaker – Mark Griffiths
Mark is a popular author and speaker, championing the importance of Children and Family Ministry across the UK and beyond. He is Director of Mission Resources at Scripture Union (England and Wales), and runs an MA in Children, Young People and Families at the Church in Wales Theological College. Mark is married to Rhian, and they have three grown-up children.
Host- Cathy Madavan
Cathy is a long-standing Care for the Family speaker as well as a best-selling author. Bringing humour, warmth and her down-to-earth style, Cathy will lead us through the day.
Toddler groups are more than just excitable toddlers and sticky floors – they’re places where light and warmth shine through. They become vital places of refuge, connection and hope to every family that walk through the doors.
And that’s because of you and your team. You’re the ones providing that warm welcome for a first-time visitor, a caring chat over a cuppa, and those small acts of kindness that make parents and carers feel seen and understood.
Even when it feels like you’re just singing songs and wiping noses – you are a bearer of light. And that light carries further than you know!
Join us at our Playtime Conference to rediscover the impact of what you do and the light you bring. Through inspiring sessions, practical workshops and space to connect with others, you’ll be encouraged and equipped to shine even brighter.
Book today – your glue sticks and sanity deserve it!
Whether you’re a passionate toddler group leader, dedicated volunteer, or are simply thinking about setting up a toddler group, we’d love to see you at our Playtime National Conference! Your group might be doing really well, or you might be feeling a bit dejected. Whatever the case, this is the perfect chance to be inspired, encouraged, and chat with other people in the same boat!
- Early bird tickets £27 each up to and including 13 June 2026
- Standard tickets £35, groups of 3 or more £27 each.
- Packed lunch included in fee
- Bookings are all made through Eventbrite
- Alternatively, feel free to call us on 029 2081 0800 and the team would be glad to help you with your booking
- Please note we do not have facilities to accommodate babies and young children at this event
‘Lots of practical ideas but also so much encouragement.’
‘I really had lost my motivation over the last month and wondered if I should continue. You’ve reignited my fire. Thank you.’
‘I love Playtime conference. It’s great to be entirely focused on under 5s rather than having to adapt things aimed at older children.’
‘So lovely to see so many people in the same boat.’
