19 June 2008

Facts and Fun for Newry and Mourne

Parents, carers and toddlers from Newry and Mourne have been treated to a day of facts and fun.

The event was aimed at parents and carers of children aged 0-5 and provided

a wide variety of information on the range of services provided by the statutory, community and voluntary sectors for children aged 0-5.

The event also included fun activities such as storytelling sessions, Face painting, magic show, baby massage and treasure baskets.

Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Michael Cole who attended on the day said:

“It is great to see such a good turn out at today’s event with a large number of parents, carers and children attending. There is so much information and support available for families these days but events like this are important to ensure that they know how to access what is available to them.”

Ciaran Eastwood, Head of Early Years for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust commended all those who contributed to and participated in the event: “The wide range of information available and the activities provided at the Facts ‘n’ Fun day were reflective of the longstanding partnership between the Trust and the community and voluntary sector in delivering early years services.”

Michelle Grant, from NICMA the Childminding Association who was a member of the organising committee, said: “Parents, grandparents, playgroup staff, childminders, parent and toddler groups and members of local breastfeeding support groups attended this event. Facts ‘n’ Fun offered them honest information on the health of their children and fun activities in which they could participate and learn new skills.”

One childminder commented on the large variety of activities available and the great buzz and atmosphere throughout the morning.

The Facts ‘n’ Fun day was organised by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust through the Early Years Team Newry and Mourne Locality, NICMA the Childminding association and student Social Worker, Johnny Mc Givern.