Strathfoyle Women's Activity Group
Award - £27,000
Council Area – Derry and Strabane
The Strathfoyle Women’s centre creche is situated in a small rural village in an area of high deprivation. The reopening of the creche after a number of months of closure due to Covid proved to be a great benefit for the parents and of course the children. A small number of children experienced separation anxiety and the setting supported families in delivering fun activities to do at home and building trust between staff and the young children to encourage them to return when they feel more secure.
To quote one of the parents, ‘It has helped with our relationship, she will now let other people hold her not only her Mum.’ A lot of parents have indicated that their children have more conversations about what they did and who their friends are in the creche, thus promoting better language skills, interactions and better parent/ child relationships.
Lockdown proved to be a difficult challenge for parents, as a number of them have indicated that they were worried about their child’s development especially their social skills. Parents have told staff that their children are less anxious to be around others and are excited to go to creche in the mornings. Parents have been able to get into a better routine within their home; to provide a secure and happy environment.
This year the setting has made great use of the outdoor play area to help improve each child’s development such as their imagination, social skills, physical development and their sensory needs. The children showed great love for outdoors as they have great fun and enjoyment while interacting with their peers. Staff discussed with parents the importance of outdoor play and the fun the children had experienced. Parents talked about taking their children on nature walks and going to the park etc. things that are free and on their doorstep.
The reopening of the creche has been very successful and parents are delighted that their children are making great progress and mixing with others.
The following is a few quotes from parents taking from evaluations:
“He loves messy play now.”
“He comes out with a few words.”
“Our bond is better.”
“The creche has helped in so many ways, it’s great for my mental health and my child’s social wellbeing.”