New family playgroup for children with disabilities

A new playgroup for families with children with disabilities under five years old is being launched next week in Ellesmere.

Families with children with special needs are invited to come along to Play Pals on Thursday 29 September 2011 from 1pm-3pm at Ellesmere Children’s Centre and take part in a host of fun activities.

The special event is being organised by Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centre services and Homestart to celebrate the launch of the monthly Play Pals group.

Children and their parents can take part in a fun ‘Melody Movement’ session which includes story, music, and movement, as well as explore a variety of toys and activities. 

There will also be an opportunity for parents to seek advice and information about round child development, find out how services like Parent Partnership and Portage Play can support you and your child, and what other support groups and courses are available in their local area.

Jo Thomas, children’s centres co-ordinator, said:

“I’m really delighted that the new Play Pals group will give parents with children with disabilities a great opportunity to meet with other parents, socialise and to share experiences; as well as giving parents support, advice and information to support them and their child’s well-being.

This is another brilliant example of how our children’s centres are supporting local families and children, and ensure that we deliver the right services that are tailored to their individual needs.”

Following on from the launch of the Play Pals group, there will be Play Pals family drop-in session at Ellesmere, 1pm-3pm, on the last Thursday of every month.

For more information about the event and the Play Pals group, please contact Shropshire Council’s children’s centre services on 01691 656513 or alternatively go to our website at shropshire.gov.uk/childrenscentres.nsf. 

Parent Partnership is a service offering advice and support to parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs.  They can put parents in touch with other organizations, and can support parents in makign sure thier views are heard and understood, generally increasing parent’s confidence.

Portage Play is delivered by trained Portage Play workers in the family home for children under five with an additional need.  Workers provide advice and guidance regarding specific activities that can help promote identified developmental needs such as communication.  Pure Portage is available for children with more complex needs.