We are delighted to offer a new service, for six-to eight-year-olds out of school due to a disability/SEN. Our 6-8yr olds Stay & Play sessions will take place on Tuesday and Thursday mornings 9.30am-12.30pm to support skills normally provided during break times at school including socialising, turn taking and cooperating with others. The sessions are offered to children socially isolated due to limited or no opportunities to meet with their peers and support meaningful friendships which in turn helps improve emotional well-being, build confidence and self-esteem in preparation to enter formal education.

Children attending must be accompanied by a parent or carer and be between 6 years old (due to enter year 1) and 8. Staff will be on hand to support with any difficulties, but parents and carers are asked to join in and support the children in their care to take part in the activities.

The group is free to attend, however, as we are a charity that relies on grants and donations we would welcome a small contribution towards running costs and snacks if you are able.

Benefits for the children

• Improved skills and participation: Sunbeams 6 to 8 year old group will help children develop better social and communication skills, leading to increased participation in community activities.

• Enhanced wellbeing: Early intervention and support can improve a child's long-term outcomes and overall wellbeing by addressing needs early on.

• Stronger resilience: Support services can help children cope with challenges like bullying or social isolation and build resilience.

Benefits for parents, carers and families

• Emotional support and reduced stress: Sunbeams will provide a space for parents to share feelings, manage emotions, and reduce stress from the challenges of raising a child with SEND.

• Increased resilience and coping: Peer support may boost parents' resilience and ability to cope with difficulties.

• Stronger family relationships: Sunbeams will encourage the strengthening family bonds and the development of meaningful friendships that will reduce social isolation and loneliness.

• Improved family life: Through support at Sunbeams, we hope that we can help build bridges and foster better communication between families and education professionals.

• Shared knowledge and experience: Professionals and parents can exchange information and experiences to better support the child's development. This will be invaluable as lived experience brings firsthand knowledge, intervention and ideas for coping strategies when struggling with children or life in general.