{"id":538,"date":"2015-11-03T12:04:34","date_gmt":"2015-11-03T12:04:34","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.mumblog.co.uk\/?p=538"},"modified":"2023-09-18T15:21:41","modified_gmt":"2023-09-18T15:21:41","slug":"a-useful-guide-to-setting-up-a-parent-and-baby-toddler-group","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mumblog.co.uk\/a-useful-guide-to-setting-up-a-parent-and-baby-toddler-group\/","title":{"rendered":"A Useful Guide To Setting Up A Parent and Baby \/ Toddler Group"},"content":{"rendered":"

Parent and child groups are a brilliant resource for Mums and Dads seeking friendship and support from other parents, as well as playmates for their pre-school children. Many parents have found lifelong friends in these groups and they can be a life-saver for those who are feeling isolated or are perhaps new to an area.<\/p>\n

Parent and Child groups differ from playgroups, nurseries, etc., as you, the parent, will need to stay with your child throughout, and for that reason these groups do not require the same level of administration as a formal childcare setting. Groups are often run by charities such as the National Childbirth Trust, churches, community groups, and even schools and nurseries who see it as a good way of introducing parents and children to their facilities.<\/p>\n

If, however, your area is lacking in groups then why not consider setting up one of your own? Unfortunately, it is not as simple as just booking a venue and hoping that people turn up, as there are several points that you will need to consider. However, this guide, by a Mum with experience of setting up and running a group, will help you prepare for the process.<\/p>\n

Research What Type Of Group Is Needed<\/h2>\n

\"Research<\/p>\n

Firstly, you need to find out if there is a need for a group in your area. You might already have a large group of parent friends who want to have somewhere to meet, in which case you have a readymade group available. However, if you are trying to do this alone or with one or two other parents then you need to think about what demand there is in the area. You could research groups that are currently in operation. If you are not sure where they are try contacting your local SureStart centre or council Family Information Service.<\/p>\n

You could also join local parent and toddler groups on social media sites and ask if this would be of interest to people there. Consider approaching local child-minders to ask them if they would be interested in the group, many look after young children and are always looking for new activities to engage those children with. You might want to think about specialising your group if you think there is a need and you have the resources to do so. For example, a Dad and child group, or a music group.<\/p>\n

Finding A Suitable Venue<\/h2>\n

\"Venue_Children<\/p>\n

Your first step should be to find an appropriate venue. It should be large enough to accommodate the children and parents, including space to run around. Ideally, the venue will have a supply of chairs for the parents and tables for snacks \/ activities, as well as an area where drinks and snacks can be prepared.<\/p>\n

You will also need to take into account legislation such as that covering health and safety and equality. The venue owners should have public liability insurance and the venue should be accessible for disabled visitors throughout. Fire detection systems such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers need to be in place and exits should be clearly marked. There should be toilets and a place to wash hands.<\/p>\n

A baby-changing table will be a bonus, though you could always choose to supply your own mats if necessary. If the venue is supplying electrical equipment, such as a kettle or a microwave, then these should be PAT tested. Make sure that there are adequate heating facilities and consider the practicalities of cleaning up the venue at the end of the group, i.e. plush cream carpets and toddlers don\u2019t tend to mix well!<\/p>\n

Venues such as church halls and community centres are a good place to start. Many may wish to find new ways to engage the local community and see your group as a good opportunity. If you live in a rural location, then a village hall may be ideal or you could consider approaching local charities, governmental organisations, or NHS organisations to see if they have a suitable space available.<\/p>\n

You will also need to consider storage space for the toys and equipment for your group. Some venues will let you use a cupboard etc., but others may not have the space available. In this case you will need to think about where you can store everything. Try and negotiate a deal with the landlord \/ building owners about hire. Booking the venue in six \/ 12 month blocks may mean they are willing to negotiate on hire costs. If you do this try and get some sort of tenancy agreement in place to keep everything clear.<\/p>\n

Insurance<\/h2>\n

\"Insurance_Kids<\/p>\n

Although the venue you hire should have public liability insurance which will cover accidents that may occur to members of the public whilst in the venue, it\u2019s a good idea to get your own insurance especially for the group. This will also cover the group for any injuries that arise, as well as legal expenses, and loss of equipment, money, etc. from theft or property damage. The Pre-School Learning Alliance specialise in providing insurance for childcare settings, including for parent and toddler groups.<\/p>\n

Committee and Constitution<\/h2>\n

\"Committee_Kids<\/p>\n

Having a committee and a constitution for the group is not necessary, but it will make you seem more appealing to possible funders who may be able to help you with set up costs. In addition, having a committee ensures that the responsibility for the group does not lie with one single person, as this can be a huge, time-consuming task.<\/p>\n

For your committee, you may wish to appoint a chair, vice-chair, treasurer, and secretary. This group can work together to make decisions about funding, direction of the group etc. You may also wish to invite parents to sit on the committee as additional members.<\/p>\n

A constitution is a document that sets out the purpose, aims, etc. of the group. You can use this to support any funding applications you may wish to make. There is no set template to what should be included, but a good start would be to use the following structure:<\/p>\n