Some of the feedback received from our partners:
The workshop provided a good basis on which to build; the first session was a testing ground but after that I felt far more confident in my delivery and was able to make sure that the programme was tailored to the ages/needs of the children. We provide one ActivTots session per week at the moment and have 7-10 children aged between 2 and 4 years who attend regularly. It has been rewarding to see the children grow in confidence and ability over the last months and the mums have formed their own good friendships within the group. The parents who attend are always willing to join in with the movements and games and this further encourages their children.
We are now looking to provide ‘taster’ sessions within our regular Stay & Plays and will perhaps extend this to summer holiday activities. The programme may also be adapted to younger age groups so at some point in the future this may be an option too. I am always on the lookout for new ideas and would like to see how other ActivTots groups are run so that I can keep the group fresh and interesting. It’s just a great way to let off steam and have fun!"
Cathy Kershaw
Dover’s Green Sure Start Children’s Centre, Reigate, Surrey
"We held our first session of ActivTots for families at our children’s centre today. The numbers of families attending was less than we expected (again) maybe showing that we need to a lot more work to promote these sorts of activities, however the session itself went really well. We had some people who were keen to return after your session last week as they had really enjoyed it and parents said how pleased they were that their children had engaged so well. The parents who came today said they would be keen to tell everyone how much they had enjoyed it and to try and encourage more to come next time as they felt it had been fun and really good for the children and for themselves!
Running the session ourselves was surprisingly easy after having received your training and especially after having seen you deliver the session to a group of children and parents last week. We followed the suggested format of a ‘story adventure’ based warm up, some stretches, a game (on top of the mountain!) We played vehicle mayhem which really engaged the children, followed by some simple ball skills and then a wind down. It all worked really well.
We even knelt down at a pool of water for a drink when we got to the bottom of the mountain and did some ‘half press ups’ as we lent forward to drink!!!!"
Claire Murray
High Trees Sure Start Children’s Centre, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire
"I just wanted to let you know that I have had some very positive feedback about yesterdays training session you ran for us. My staff were full of enthusiasm after the course and have already changed some planning to accommodate some of your ideas in our sessions. We will be looking to run separate physical activity sessions in the future and incorporate your ideas in our existing sessions. Staff said it masde them realise how little physical play we offered children at the moment. They also said it was clear that you were very passionate about your work and that came through in the training.
They have done a huge amount of training in the last 7 months so for them to have been so enthused is testament to your skills and the programme you are offering."
Lucy Ellis
Fleet Fireflies Sure Start Children’s Centre, Fleet, Hampshire
What Do Kids Think?
“I liked it when we got to play with the balloons, wicked!”
Nick, 5 years
“I liked the star jumps”
Richard, 5 years
“I thought it was good exercise”
Ben , 7 years
“Fab”
Veeral, 5 years
“I liked walking in the jungle"
Zoe, 4 years
What Do Schools Think?
“I would like to take this opportunity to express how delighted we are with the (Activkids) club. The children enjoy coming and have great fun after school. The sessions are extremely well planned and insure inclusion of all abilities. It is a club that we have wanted to run for a long time now, as children do not appear to have as much exercise as they used to. The club provides some excellent exercises, fun and games, without being as competitive as some sports activities, the emphasis is on enjoyment of exercise”
Marshfields C of E Infant School, Ottershaw
“Thank you for running a series of Activkids sessions at our school. The sessions were motivating and exciting for the children and your approach was organised, flexible and professional”
Barnsbury Junior School, Woking
“The feedback I have received has been very positive. Some of our members need the structure of a session like Activkids especially during our play schemes and to get some activity that is interesting and good for their confidence and fitness”
Link Leisure, Woking
“On the occasions that I was in the hall, the (ActivKids) club seemed to be extremely well run. The activities stimulated the children and they were obviously absorbed in what they were doing.
The coach was always punctual and behaved in a professional manner and liaised with us if there were any concerns. We have no hesitation in booking ActivKids for further courses”
Hawkedale Infant School, Sunbury-on-Thames
“ActivKids is now in its second year with us and is a popular club run every Tuesday. Our ActivKids leader is very efficient, has excellent time keeping and generates enthusiasm and motivation within the group that participate in this weekly class.
The children attending this club have gained more self confidence, new skills in keeping fit, and knowing and understanding the importance of exercise in their lives.”
St Clement’s Catholic Primary School, West Ewell.
