Creative Reading 2022
Article Written:In partnership with PICL Partners in Creative Learning
We have absolutely loved seeing the smiles on little faces during this project. The local families who attended have enjoyed reading with a twist, craft and messy play, all whilst meeting other local mums and sharing ideas and stories.
PICL approached Middleport Matters with an opportunity to carry out one of their “Creative Reading” sessions -this would give children aged 0-5 years the chance to take part in free creative learning sessions. Each week we would explore a story and take part in craft, singing and creative activities which parents could enjoy with their child. We decided that doing the creative reading sessions with Middleport Matters providing messy play activities to support would be the best option.
The group went from strength to strength each week and everyone who attended had positive feedback about the activities – all the families went away having spent quality time together enjoying the story for that week.
We engaged with 24 local people including 12 local mums and their toddlers, 7 of which are hyper local (ST6) during this project which showed that there is a need in the area.
“We really love coming to this group, my daughter is so confident here”
We asked the group if they would like to attend again if we were to continue – 100% of participants said that they would come back to a similar group.
To ensure sustainability we also asked if they would be willing to make a small contribution if we set up a new group – 100% said they would contribute, in addition some even said they would pay £5 per session which shows how much the mums appreciated the sessions.
“Please let me know if you start another group – I’ve loved these sessions”
“I’m really sad that it’s finished – we’ll miss our little group”