A children's hub in Cwmbran is hosting a week-long summer celebration with free entertainment and practical parenting support to mark 20 years of a vital local initiative. The event runs from August 3 to 7 at the Cwmbran Integrated Children's Centre and features a party, beach-themed activities, and a teddy bear picnic.
Celebrating Two Decades of Support
The festivities commemorate two decades of both the local facility and the Welsh Government's Flying Start programme, which delivers free childcare and support in disadvantaged areas. Since its launch, Flying Start has provided critical resources to families across Torfaen, including health visitor access, parenting guidance, and speech development support. The scheme has also funded free childminding and early education places for eligible families.
A Week of Free Activities
The schedule overlaps with two national campaigns: the Welsh Government's 'Play Every Day' initiative and 'Infant Feeding Week'. Specialist staff, including health visitors, speech and language therapists, and early years practitioners, will be on site throughout the week to offer advice and help parents prepare preschool children for starting nursery or primary education.
Activities are free and open to all families in Torfaen. Highlights include a summer party with bouncy castles, face painting, and music; beach-themed sensory play with sand and water; and a teddy bear picnic where children can bring their favourite soft toy for stories and snacks.
Generational Impact: A Parent's Story
Joanne Lane, from Cwmbran, whose family has benefited from the programme, said: "The support that I have received over the years from the Flying Start team has been invaluable. My son attended Chatterbox sessions when he was little to help develop his speech and communication skills and the free childminding support helped me to complete my Level 2 and 3 qualifications. Llongyfarchiadau to the team on 20 years making a positive difference to the children and families of Torfaen."
Growing with Families
Emma Treadgold, Flying Start manager, added: "One of the greatest privileges of working with Flying Start is seeing families grow over the years. We meet them as babies, watch them progress into school and then see them again as adults with their own children, which highlights the difference Flying Start has made across generations."
Supporting Early Development
Flying Start services in Torfaen include free part-time childcare for two- and three-year-olds in eligible areas, enhanced health visiting, parenting programmes, and speech, language and communication support. The programme has been credited with improving school readiness and narrowing the attainment gap. According to the Welsh Government, Flying Start reaches around 36,000 children across Wales each year.
Event Details
- Date: August 3 to 7
- Location: Cwmbran Integrated Children's Centre, Torfaen
- Cost: Free
- Information: Visit the Connect Torfaen website for full schedule and activity details.
Families are encouraged to drop in for any or all of the activities. No booking is required, but some sessions may have limited spaces. Staff will be available to provide information about ongoing Flying Start services and how to access support throughout the year.
