November 2022
Free holiday activities with hot meals now available for children during the Christmas 2022 holidays
School holidays can be particularly difficult for some families because of increased costs, such as food, especially now when costs of living are so high and rising.
So, we have arranged a programme of funded holiday-time activities, with hot meals, to run for up to four days over the Christmas 2022 school holiday.
The government-funded programme for the Christmas 2022 holiday has just been published, and parents or carers can book places with the providers now.
There is a wide range of activities to choose from, from cooking and craft, sports and coaching, outdoor and forest play, music and dance, and more.
All clubs will be operating for a minimum of four hours and will include a hot meal. The activities are fully inclusive and accessible, but parents and carers are encouraged to discuss their child’s needs with their chosen provider.
All children are eligible to register, although priority places will be given to children aged five to 16 years old (or four-year-olds, if in reception), who are eligible for and receiving benefit-related free school meals and their families.
 New speech and language courses to help young children catch up after COVID-19
Research conducted in schools last year revealed that the coronavirus pandemic, with its lockdowns and restrictions, held back many young children’s speech and language development.
So, we have created new courses which are available to parents and carers, and staff who work with children and young people, to help children catch up and reach their potential.
Language and communication skills are important in supporting and developing our children’s resilience and life chances. A new project called The Way We Talk gives parents, carers and professionals the skills to help improve speech and language development for their children and young people.
 Heard of RSV?
RSV is a common winter virus and the most common cause of bronchiolitis in children under 2. Most cases are mild but in some children it can be more serious.
Five ways to protect under 5s this winter
This winter is the first for two years without any COVID-19 restrictions so you and your children might be more likely to pick up bugs and illnesses, such as flu and bronchiolitis.
The UK Health Security Agency has shared some great advice for families with children under five years old to help reduce the risk of infection.
With flu cases on the rise, this is a particularly important time to ensure your child gets the flu vaccine. Children who turned two or three before 31 August 2022 can have a quick, painless nasal spray vaccine to help protect them against flu and you can book it now at your GP surgery.
By getting your children vaccinated, it will not only help protect your child, but your family and friends too, including those who may be more vulnerable to serious illness from flu such as grandparents. It may also help you avoid having to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare as a result of your child getting flu.
All primary and some secondary school children will also be offered the nasal flu spray at school this winter. Look out for the consent form which your school will send you to complete.
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