Baby and toddler groups cater for a wide range of parents and carers. Some are happy to become involved as helpers while others use it as an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy socialising with their friends. If there isn’t a baby and toddler group in your area, you might think of starting one up. There are many benefits to both carers and children.

First steps

Before you begin there are a few things to consider. There is no requirement to register with Ofsted as parents and carers are responsible for their children during the session and must supervise them at all times. You will however need to take into account relevant legislation such as health and safety, fire regulations, the Race Relations Act and the Disability Discrimination Act.

Your local Children’s Information Service can provide lots of help and advice. They may be able to provide information on the times and days that other groups run in your area, so you can avoid clashing with them.

The following items are things to consider when setting up your group. Click on the links below to explore each section.

• Somewhere to meet
• Managing your money
• Sharing the load
• Basic equipment and resources
• Things that need to be done
• Meeting & greeting
• Setting up the room, providing refreshments and clearing away
• Group guidelines

Resources for Alliance members

The Alliance supports and runs thousands of baby and toddler groups across the country. Members of the Alliance have access to a range of additional resources to help them to sustain and improve the quality of services offered to children, parents and carers. Members, log in to see additional resources in the ‘Additional information’ box below.

Publications

The Alliance has produced a range of publications and resources specifically for baby and toddler groups. Members receive a 20% discount. For more information, click here

Advice and guidance

Each Alliance divisional office has a lead person with responsibility for baby and toddler work. Lead persons are part of the national baby and toddler forum and coordinate baby and toddler work locally.

Members, for further advice on how best to support and improve the activities of your group, contact the lead person in your division or our Information Service Team

Membership for baby and toddler groups

For just £35.00 per year, your baby and toddler group can join the Alliance and receive a unique package of benefits which include:

• Access to a competitive insurance package created just for baby and toddler groups.
• A confidential legal helpline with advice on employment, tax, VAT and premises hire.
• Friendly, practical and accessible information, advice and factsheets.
• Discounted specialist publications to help you run your group successfully.
• Special offers for your group on entry to Legoland and Sea Life Centres and discounts on Galt, TTS and Steadyco early years products.
• Support through our network of local staff and volunteers.
• 10 copies of Under 5 magazine per year, packed with up‑to‑date news and in‑depth articles.

To request a membership pack, click here