Family Life

At least 550 new foster families are needed across the South West region during 2015 to provide stable, secure and loving homes for record numbers of fostered children, according to figures released today from The Fostering Network. Each day sees over 63,000 children living with over 52,500 foster families in homes across the UK. With a rising number of children coming into care, and around 13 per cent of foster carers retiring or leaving the service last year, there is a need to not only recruit more foster carers but also better utilise the current pool of foster carers. More foster...

Leading charity Action for Children is teaming up with The World of Eric Carle™ and encouraging children’s centres, nurseries and groups for under fives in the South West to host a Giant Wiggle on Thursday 19 March 2015 to celebrate the UK’s most read children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. The event will bring together under-5s to wiggle along in giant caterpillar conga lines, encouraging them to help others, and opening up their imaginations through storytelling and creative activities. Brigitte Gater, UK West Director of Children's Services at Action for Children, said: “We want...

In March, RockSolid Race is returning to Escot Park but this time it’s not only the adults who get to have all the fun. Children aged between 5 and 13 years can take part in the Yeo Valley Rock Stars – a mini obstacle course.

The mini event is split into two age groups and distances– 5-7 year olds who need to be accompanied by an adult for a 1km course and 8-13 year olds who complete a 1 mile course with extra and more challenging obstacles.

Over the course, they will face obstacles that include net scrambles, balance beams, tunnels and straw pyramids – to name but a few...

Staff and volunteers are preparing for toddlers to take over the Knightshayes for its first ever Toddler Time on Thursday 12 February.

Between 11am and 3pm the National Trust property on the outskirts of Tiverton, is opening its doors to tiny explorers and their families. Each Toddler Time has a seasonal theme, with sensory activities for little ones to enjoy.

This February, the under-fives can discover the wonder of the weather, with messy play activities exploring ice, snow and muddy puddles. Children can take part in crafts, explore the gardens, listen to stories and...