Parent play information day

Over 30 families from across East Ayrshire took part in a Parent Play information day recently.

Run by the Play and Early Intervention team from Vibrant Communities, parents and carers had the opportunity to try out new play ideas, explore why play is so important for their child’s development, and brainstorm with other parents and organisations about affordable play ideas.

East Ayrshire Speech and Language gave a presentation with simple tips for parents and carers to support the positive development of their child’s speech. While the Play and Early Intervention team helped, parents and carers identify 16 play opportunities that can easily be included into everyday routines.

The Onsite catering team from St Joseph’s Academy provided taster sessions and gave families the opportunity to try a variety of school meals.

Depute Provost Claire Leitch (Children’s Champion), who was joined at the event by Councillor Jim McMahon, Cabinet Member for Older People and Community Safety, said: “The parent play information day was really beneficial for parents, carers and for the children. The young ones had great fun with messy, creative play and activities while their parents and carers learned about the different types of services that are available, the importance of play and how to build play into their everyday routines.

“Well done to everyone from the Play and Early Intervention team for organising such a great event.”

Thanks to the Scottish Book Trust, TESCO, Epilepsy Connection, Dean Castle Countryside Ranger service, Parent Pay, EA Community Play Forum, Beautiful Inside & Out, The Holiday Project and Oral Health improvement for hosting stalls and providing an array of information on services available to families providing sustainable links after the day.