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'Growing Together’ - play-based support for families with children aged 0-3
Published
Allsorts is delivering ‘Growing Together’, a 10-week early years programme for families with children aged 0–3 with developmental or medical needs. Ollie from Allsorts details the the play-based programme and how it combines occupational therapy and relationship-focused sessions to support children’s development and help families feel confident, connected and supported.
‘Growing Together’ is a 10-week, small-group programme that supports children’s early development through play-based, relationship-focused sessions, while also supporting parents and carers. The programme runs on a termly basis, with the current block underway and future blocks planned.
Sessions take place at the Allsorts Activity Hub in Stroud and are delivered by the Allsorts Families Team alongside a DIR Floortime-trained Occupational Therapist (OT). DIR stands for Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based. Floortime is a playful, child-led approach where adults join children at their level to support emotional, social and developmental growth.
The programme supports children to:
- Feel calm and regulated.
- Build strong relationships.
- Communicate and interact.
- Develop imagination and problem-solving skills.
Families are supported to better understand their child’s individual needs and are given practical play strategies they can use at home, helping build confidence during the early years.
What does the programme include?
‘Growing Together’ runs over 10 weeks and includes:
- A 1:1 introductory session with an Occupational Therapist.
- Five Stay & Play sessions led by the Allsorts Families Team.
- Five DIR Floortime sessions delivered by the OT.
Sessions are delivered in a small group of up to six families, allowing for personalised support and the chance to connect with other parents who may be on a similar journey.
Who is it for?
The programme is open to families with a child aged 0–3 who has developmental or medical needs. A formal diagnosis is not required.
The cost is £50 for the full programme, paid in two instalments of £25 (equivalent to £5 per session). Fee waivers are available, and families are encouraged to get in touch if cost is a barrier.
Referrals
‘Growing Together’ is accessed by referral. Referrals can be made by:
- Parents and carers (self-referral).
- Health visitors.
- Early years professionals.
- Other services.
After completing the programme, families are supported to access other Allsorts activities where appropriate.
If you want to know more about Allsorts and other activities for young children with additional needs, please visit Support for families with SEND website, Gloucestershire's Local Offer
Contact details for Early Years Service
Guide to the Inclusion Fund for Parent Carers