First steps to education and independence for 0-3 years old

Outdoor Play

Our Parent and Child Groups provide a nurturing environment where children can explore and play. The outdoor garden features trucks, a slide, a sandpit and a swing. After outdoor play, children participate in circle time with nursery rhymes and a simple puppet show, fostering early social and cognitive skills.

Relaxed and Informal Setting

Together with their parents, children learn essential social skills such as relating to one another and participating in group activities. The mood of the morning is informal and relaxed, creating a warm, safe and children-centred space where children and their parents can relax and play together. This setting supports the development of children’s trust, curiosity and a love of learning through guided play and interaction.

Tidy Up Song

After the activity the children will sing a tidy-up song, wash their hands and have a shared snack with the parents. All snacks are nut-free, vegetarian and organic, with vegan alternatives available. There is coffee, tea and herbal tea with dairy or oat milk available.

“Our parent and child mornings are by far the best of our week. Our son has grown up from a baby to a fully-fledged toddler coming to the sessions and they've provided such a nurturing, loving, safe space for him to find his feet. We’ve both made wonderful friends and connections through this group and love to incorporate elements of the session into our daily lives.”

— Hannah, Parent

Family Atmosphere

Our groups emphasise a family-like atmosphere, serving as a second family for the children. Small class sizes and mixed-age groups ensure each child is well-known, fostering a deep sense of security and community. This environment helps children build confidence and develop social skills in a supportive setting.

Rhythm and Repetition

The sessions are structured around the natural rhythm of the day and seasons. This rhythm, along with repetition, provides reassurance and helps children develop essential skills in a predictable and comforting environment. Activities are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging, supporting holistic development.

Additional Activities

Children and parents engage in various activities such as baking, simple crafts and storytelling. These activities promote creativity and imagination, helping children to develop fine motor skills and cognitive abilities in a natural and stress-free manner. The use of natural materials and simple, beautiful toys supports sensory development and imaginative play.

The groups will run on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning from September, 9.30 - 12pm, term time only. Each session costs £11 and to secure your place in the group families will need to pay for a full term in advance of starting. Please download the Registration Form below and send the completed form to us at parentandchild@bristolsteinerschool.org