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Hello and welcome to another issue of the Family Hubs newsletter!
In this month's edition, we want to tell you about some of the fantastic things that have been happening across our Family Hubs network in Rotherham.
LATEST NEWS
Brookfield goes Under the Sea!
The Early Help Outreach and Engagement team at Brookfield Family Hub hosted a fantastic free event for families called Brookfield Under the Sea and it was a splash!
Children aged 0–11 enjoyed a whole range of themed activities, from a baby play area and “walk the plank” zone to sea life photo props, fishy crafts, and sand and water play stations. The event was a huge success, with 110 guests joining in the fun.
Parents told us:
“It is nice to have a free local event; it has been great.”
“Today has been amazing and lots of fun for all ages.”
Want to know what’s coming up next?
Visit our Facebook pages or contact your local team to stay in the loop with free family activities near you
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Looking for something fun to do with your little one?
Come along to Tots & Toddlers Playgroup at The Place Family Hub , we’re here every Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30pm during term time, and it’s completely free!
If you’ve got a child aged 0–3, you’re welcome to join us. Each week we explore a new theme with activities designed to support your child’s early development, and there’s always something exciting going on! Think crafts, messy play, sensory fun, singing and dancing, dressing up, soft play, bikes, slides, and loads more.
It’s a busy, friendly group that’s perfect if you’re keen to meet other parents and carers while your child plays and explores in a safe, fun space.
We also have a baby self-weigh area, with staff on hand to help if you need support.
Don’t forget, our Outreach and Engagement Workers run free groups and sessions all over the borough, not just at your local Family Hub. You’re welcome to attend any that suit you!
Want to find out more? Check us out on Facebook pages or contact your local team:
We’d love to see you there!
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Advice for Parents
Best Start in Life - supporting families every step of the way
 Calling all parents and carers - Best Start in Life is here to help you and your child thrive, from pregnancy through to starting school.
Being a parent brings incredible moments of joy alongside natural worries and
questions. Whether you're expecting your first baby, understanding your child’s
early health, navigating their first day in childcare, or preparing for school, the Best Start in Life website brings together a range of trusted information and support in one easy-to-access place
How to access support:
Don’t miss out!
Visit beststartinlife.gov.uk today!
Warning about Baby Self-Feeding products
As parents, we’re always looking for ways to support our babies’ development and independence, but sometimes, products that seem helpful can actually pose serious risks.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued a renewed warning about baby self-feeding products, including new designs shaped like animal heads. These items may look cute or convenient, but they’ve been linked to choking hazards and aspiration pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
The advice is clear: all baby self-feeding products are considered unsafe. If you have one at home, please stop using it immediately and dispose of it safely.
Your child’s safety is always the top priority. If you’re unsure about a product or need advice, speak to your local Family Hub team. We’re here to help.
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Childhood vaccinations matter and we need your help
Did you know that England’s childhood vaccination programmes help prevent around 5,000 deaths and over 100,000 hospital admissions every year? That’s thousands of families protected from serious illness ,thanks to vaccines.
But here’s the concern: vaccine uptake has been falling over the past decade. And as fewer children get vaccinated, we’re seeing a rise in diseases that we once had under control, these are illnesses that are entirely preventable.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to keep our children, families, and communities safe. So if you’re a parent or carer, now’s a great time to check your child’s vaccination schedule and make sure they’re up to date.
Let’s keep protecting each other, one jab at a time.
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Parenting Support in Rotherham
 Being a parent is one of the most rewarding roles in life but it’s not always easy. Sometimes, we all need a bit of guidance, support, or just someone to talk to. That’s why in Rotherham, we offer a wide range of parenting programmes for families with children aged 0–19 (and up to 25 for young people with additional needs). These sessions are available both in person and online, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your family.
Our programmes are based on trusted research and real-life experiences. We know that every family is different, and that small changes can make a big difference.
We have lots of programmes and sessions for parents and carers to choose from, there is something for everyone. We’ve included some information about two of our popular programmes, but you can find out more about the full range of programmes for parents and carers by clicking the link below.
Triple P (0–12 Years)
A practical course for parents of children aged 0–12. It focuses on building positive parenting skills, managing behaviour, and looking after your own wellbeing.
Teen Life
A friendly six-week course for parents and carers of autistic young people aged 10–16. It’s a chance to share experiences, learn together, and hear from autistic voices through videos and stories.
See here for more courses
Pregnant? Let your midwife know early
If you’re expecting, it’s best to have your first midwife appointment before 10 weeks of pregnancy. The earlier you get in touch, ideally between 6 and 8 weeks, the sooner you can access support and advice tailored to you.
Early contact helps ensure a healthy start for you and your baby
Register online at: therotherhamft.nhs.uk.
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Computers are available in the family hubs
It’s easy to overlook some of the everyday resources that make a big difference and public access computers in our Family Hubs are one of them.
Whether it’s filling out an online form, checking emails, applying for jobs, or simply staying connected, these computers are there to support families with the digital access they need.
You don’t need to book beforehand, just walk in and log on.
We know that not everyone has access to a device or reliable internet at home, so having this option available locally can be a real lifeline.
If you’re visiting a Hub or supporting someone who is, take a moment to ask about the computers, they’re ready and waiting to help.
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UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Weekly Rhymetime at Dinnington Library and Neighbourhood Hub
A fun and friendly song and story session for under 5's.
No booking necessary.
Weekly Baby and toddler meet up at Dinnington Library
Our Stay and Play sessions are a great way to make new friends while your children play with a selection of toys and discover their new favourite books.
Enjoy playing with a selection of toys and picking out books, both new and old favourites! Drop in, no booking required.
Every family’s experience matters, and we’d love to learn more about yours. In each edition of this newsletter, we’ll be asking a different question to help us understand the views, opinions and experiences of families living in Rotherham.
Your feedback will help shape and improve the services offered by our Family Hubs, making sure they meet the needs of local families like yours.
Family Voice - Click the link to share your feedback
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