Pre-school children in the Bannockburn area are getting the chance to enjoy ‘bags of play’ thanks to a grant of £3,700.

The bright blue rucksacks, which contain age-theme toys and activities, aim to encourage parents to play with their children.  This can be done informally in the child’s home, encouraging the parent to develop their confidence and support active play.

The scheme, funded by the Lottery Communities and Families Fund, is aimed at pre-school children within the Bannockburn area, and has been developed through joint working with NHS Forth Valley Bannockburn Health Visiting Team, Stirling Councils’ Park Drive Nursery and the Adult Learning Team.

Isabelle Franklin, NHS Forth Valley Health Visitor, Bannockburn Health Visiting Team, said:

 Play is  extremely important in the development of a child.  Some parents find playing with their child hard for a variety of reasons which can include lack of equipment.This funding has allowed us to work with our colleagues in both health and education to create ‘bags of play’ which allows us as professionals to support parents and carers and provide inexpensive activity ideas for playing with their child, ensuring the best possible start in life.”

A launch event was held at Hillpark Community Centre and was attended by a number of children who are benefiting from the scheme, and guests from early years, adult education and health.