5 by 5 is now live
5 by 5, a new initiative designed to support parents and carers as they prepare their child for starting school, is now live.
The programme, which has been developed by Telford & Wrekin Council’s education team with the support of family hubs, includes a new website, 5by5.telford.gov.uk
On the website, parents and carers can find ideas of things to try with their child before the age of five to boost their confidence, imagination, independence, social and creative skills and ability to understand the world around them.
It suggests ten activities to try within five different themes, which also help meet the Government’s 17 early learning goals.
Many of the activities are no cost or low cost and can be done in and around the home or in local community venues, at green flag award winning parks and open green spaces.
Parents can also download an adventure card from the website, which offers a checklist, so they can keep track of their child’s 5 by 5 journey.
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment and Skills, said:
“I’m really excited and proud to welcome the launch of 5 by 5.
“Starting school is a big milestone for all children and with an estimated 12,000 children expected to start primary school across Telford and Wrekin in the next five years, we hope we can support parents and carers through the initiative.
“Many of the activities we’ve suggested will be familiar and some are essential in supporting school readiness. We believe that if all children can try the activities we’ve suggested, it will support them to be happy, healthy and active and ready to start school.
“I’ve already spoken to parents about the initiative and had wonderful and positive feedback, so I’m excited to share this with everyone.
“To anyone with a child under five, please check out the 5 by 5 website and get involved.
“We’ll now continue to work closely with early years providers, schools, community providers, local charities, Family Hubs, and health providers as we roll out the initiative.”
The 5 by 5 initiative is the perfect stepping stone to the Council’s 10 by 10 programme, which suggests ten fun activities to try by the age of ten to encourage young children to try new things and experience the world. Find out more at 10by10.telford.gov.uk
The 5 by 5 initiative was given the green light by Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet at the start of April after members voted in favour.