Presented in partnership with North West Children and Families Centre, Power of Play sessions provide a space to explore play in a welcoming environment, fostering community and a sense of belonging through creative learning and play while instilling the importance and value of creative play in participants’ lives. 

 

Photo by Save the Children.

 

The sessions also provide additional support with talking and communication skills, building children’s confidence and independence, supporting their readiness for nursery or school.

Open to local families in the LBTH North West catchment area, the sessions are great fun for all involved. Delivering 21 sessions between July and November 2024, children and their carers enjoyed storytelling and music making, sensory play, crafting, reading, doll-making, creating designs from fruit leather and more.

Participants were given the chance to get involved where they felt inspired, rotating around play stations, being free to try the activities that inspire and call to them.

 

Photo by Save the Children.

 

They actively encourage different play areas…it’s really varied, so even though it’s only one hour it’s at a good time, the kids learn so much from it… the kids can roam around and do what they want… the environment here is very laidback and welcoming and you can meet lots of other adults.
Local Parent

 

Photo by Save the Children.

 

Over the course of the year, we were thrilled to welcome funders of the project Save the Children and LEGO to our building. In September the Save the Children team joined us for a tour of Rich Mix – meeting the team, getting an insight into the sessions and seeing how their support is enabling our work with local families.

 

I enjoy watching Amayrah evolving, trying everything, exploring, see what she’s good at and what she likes… Please God don’t take this session away from us, it’s the only time I have any interaction with adults as well!
Local Parent

 

 

Later that same month, we also welcomed a team of volunteers from LEGO who kindly helped us transform our yard into a colourful community garden to host future family workshops.

 

 

We had such a great time – despite the classic British rainy weather – and the yard is looking amazing. Ready for more family fun into 2025 and beyond!

 

It’s a safe place for them to play. And on days like today when the weather’s not that great, we can come here. It’s really good to have a Stay and Play for the boys and they’re learning a lot.
Local Parent

 

 

 

POWER OF PLAY 2024 SESSIONS SUPPORTED BY