Early support for families ensures children receive the very best start in life. We believe that actively involving parents in their child's early learning contributes positively towards their long-term development.

Our approach

From the very beginning, we recognised the value of learning through play and the important role of parents in this process. The benefits have been acknowledged by Government and addressed in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. We continue to lead the sector in this area by delivering services which use play to promote learning and development.

Baby and Toddler groups

Baby and toddler groups, or stay and play sessions, are extremely popular with young families. We offer practical advice and support to over 2500 groups and deliver quality baby and toddler sessions to thousands of families every year.

The benefits of these groups are enormous. Parents, babies and toddlers can:

• enjoy positive and playful time together in an informal, friendly space.
• use a variety of resources and take part in activities.
• meet with qualified childcare practitioners who can offer advice and support.
• socialise with other families in a more relaxed, natural way which helps to build supportive, positive communities.

For more information about starting a baby and toddler group, click here
To view our insurance packages for baby and toddler groups, download our insurance brochure
To join the Alliance as a baby and toddler group member, click here

Family programmes

Many of our settings offer parents the opportunity to choose from a wide range of flexible and fun courses. They can learn new skills and develop their child’s learning at the same time. Parents may wish to improve their literacy and numeracy or learn more about how their child develops. Find out more

Themed or focused play activities

Learning through play is an important and natural way for children to communicate. We understand the positive link between creative and physical play and a child’s well-being.

Parents and carers enjoy a range of formal and informal play activities in Alliance settings. Some children benefit from more structured play activities such as music, drama and physical activities. Others may prefer well-organised but messy play and stay sessions and more flexible, informal play sessions. All activities are designed to help children develop new skills — and learn how to share, socialise and develop confidence.

Inclusive practice

Every child is welcomed and treated as a unique individual in our settings. We celebrate and respect difference. All our settings have a strong, clear inclusive practice policy.

Parents of children with special educational needs are consulted about their child’s specific needs at all stages. Our practitioners develop individual play activity programmes which ensure that their child’s experiences are positive and they feel part of the group.