Little Pips is child’s play

Having a young child with disabilities can be a challenging and isolating experience.
Little Pips sessions at Hollybank in MirfieldLittle Pips sessions at Hollybank in Mirfield
Little Pips sessions at Hollybank in Mirfield

But help is at hand with a new service which starts at Hollybank in Mirfield in September.

Little Pips, aimed at the under fives, will run four mornings a week to support such families.

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For one morning a week for eight weeks each school term, parents and carers will learn the skills and knowledge they need to help their child communicate and thrive.

The sessions are free and will be run by qualified professionals including an early years teacher, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists and a multi-sensory impairment specialist.

Little Pips manager Ailsa Moore said: “It will provide the opportunity to create a network of parents facing similar challenges and a rare chance for them to socialise with people who understand the difficulties they face.”

The team will work with parents on skills including communication, Makaton signing for babies, messy and outdoor play, sensory and motor skills development and social skills.

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At a recent taster session held at Hollybank, some of the parents, grandparents and carers met each other for the first time, including Claire Eagling of Roberttown and her son Zach.

She said: “For me it’s an accessible resource – it’s very local and it’s an opportunity for over two hour’s support each week.

“But also the social aspect is crucial. I have spoken to more parents in the last two meetings about Little Pips than I have over the last two years.”

Little Pips starts in September. Places are limited and must be booked through Hollybank School. Contact Ailsa on 01924 490833 or email [email protected].

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