Looking for something fun to do with your little ones this summer? Join us for a series of free storytelling and creative pop-up sessions inspired by What the Ladybird Heard before our South Yorkshire Reading Network: The Mayor’s Little Big Book Club main free event on Saturday 22 August at Clifton Park Garden Room 11am to 2pm. 

Enjoy storytelling, sensory play and creative activities designed to spark your child's imagination and love of reading on the following days:

• Monday 10 August from1pm to 2:30pm at  Aston Rosegarth
• Thursday 13 August from 1pm to 2:30pm at Springwell Garden Community Centre
• Friday 14 August from 10am to 11:30am at Highfield Farm School
• Tuesday 18 August from 12pm to 3pm at Calladine Way Park
• Wednesday 19 August from 2pm to 3pm at Ferham Family Hub
• Friday 21 August from10am to 11:30am at Dinnington Children’s Centre

Remember to save the date for Saturday 22 August, when we'll be bringing families together for the South Yorkshire Reading Network: The Mayor’s Little Big Book Club. On the day there will be a pop-up farm, storytelling, face painting, balloon modelling and much much more.  

Last month, REMA Best Start Network Site welcomed parents and children to an engaging Peep Summer Session, packed with fun and practical ideas for the school holidays.

The session gave families an opportunity to explore a range of simple, low-cost activities that can be enjoyed at home and in the community throughout the summer. Parents shared experiences, took part in interactive activities, and discovered new ways to support their children's learning and development through play.

Parents left with lots of creative ideas and inspiration to help keep children active, learning, and having fun over the summer break.

To find out more about Peep check out the Peep page on the Family Hubs website PEEP learning through play programme – Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council

Rotherham Parent Carer Forum is also offering One-to-One Peep Sessions for families with children aged 0 to 5 years who have additional needs, a disability, or are on the Child Development Centre (CDC) pathway.

Delivered in a relaxed sensory environment, these personalised sessions use play, stories, songs and sensory activities to support children's development while helping parents and carers build confidence, strengthen relationships and access the right support for their family.

Sessions are available by practitioner referral.

For referrals or more information, contact Kay at Kay@rpcf.co.uk, Catherine at Catherine@rpcf.co.uk, call 01709 296262, or visit www.rpcf.co.uk

The fourth annual Children and Young People's Achievement Awards and Family Fun Day brought together families, children, young people and staff from across Rotherham for a day of celebration and fun.

Alongside a range of family-friendly activities, the event recognised the outstanding achievements of young people who have shown determination, resilience and commitment in overcoming challenges, supporting others and reaching personal goals.

We are proud of our children and young people, and the awards provided an opportunity to celebrate their successes and highlight the positive impact they are making in their families, schools and communities.

Summer is in full swing, and so is our programme of free family activities. With events taking place across the borough throughout the holidays, there are plenty of opportunities to try something new, get involved and have fun together.

Follow our Family Hubs Facebook pages for the latest updates and activity listings in your area.

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• Central – Search RotherhamEarlyHelpCentral or call  01709 914569
• South – Search RotherhamEarlyHelpSouth or call 01709 914569
• North – Search Rotherham Early Help North or call 01709 914569

Are you pregnant, also autistic and/or ADHD? (No formal diagnosis is needed.) 

Rotherham Parent Forum Ltd (RPFL) is looking to connect with expectant mums who would like support, information, and the opportunity to meet others with similar experiences. 

Pregnancy can bring lots of questions, emotions, and changes. Connecting with others who understand can provide reassurance, practical advice, and a sense of community during this important time. 

➡ Connect with other expectant mums 

➡ Access helpful information and resources 

➡ Share experiences in a safe, supportive environment 

➡ Build confidence as you prepare for your new arrival 

Whether you're seeking support, wanting to hear from others on a similar journey, or simply curious to find out more, we'd love to hear from you. 

For more information, please contact Catherine at: catherine@rpcf.co.uk 

If you’re pregnant or have a little one under two, and you’ve been feeling lonely, low or a bit cut off, you’re not on your own, support is available.

Light has expanded its one‑to‑one and group sessions in Rotherham so even more families can get help with perinatal mental health.

“Our groups are a safe, relaxing environment for you to attend either with or without baby, to meet other parents and offload as little or as much as you would like. There is never any pressure to share, sometimes a space to listen to others and realising you are not on your own is enough.”

Light’s peer support is really special because you’re spending time with people who get it, Light’s team all have their own lived experience, so you’ll always be listened to without any judgement.

You don’t need a GP referral or referral from a health practitioner.

To find out more or to register, just email contactus@lightpeersupport.org.uk.

Join the Central Outreach and Engagement Team this August for a free Party in the Park. Families can enjoy an afternoon of outdoor games, crafts, face painting, a baby area and plenty of opportunities to play, explore and meet other local families. All activities are free and designed for the whole family to enjoy together.

The events will take place on Thursday 6 August at Thorpe Hesley Recreational Ground and Wednesday 12 August at Barker's Park, Kimberworth Park, from 1pm to 2:30pm.

For more information, contact 01709 336660 or visit the RotherhamEarlyHelpCentral Facebook page.

The Central Outreach and Engagement Team are hosting Raving Babies on 25 August at The Place Family Hub. Designed for babies aged 0-1 year, this relaxed and engaging session includes music, movement and sensory play, giving little ones the chance to explore and have fun while parents and carers connect with other local families.

Places are limited, so booking is required. To reserve your place, call 01709 336660 or visit the RotherhamEarlyHelpCentral Facebook page.