Family sessions are for babies and pre-school children with special needs together with pre-school siblings and parents /carers. They are often the first introduction to First Step services. The atmosphere is very informal with qualified staff on hand to help with the care of the babies and children. The sessions offer the opportunity for parents and carers to meet others in similar circumstances and create a friendly and supportive network for each other, as well as giving the children a gradual introduction to pre-school.
These sessions are held 4 times a week and are for pre-school children with special needs, their pre-school siblings, and for parents and carers.
Each session is divided into two periods; the first half is for all children, parents and carers in the playroom, and the second half with the children only in the playroom whilst the adults have coffee and a chat in the parents' room at First Step, if they wish to do so. During this time First Step can arrange for visiting professionals to speak to parents or carers (e.g. Community Dental Service, Aromatherapist).
The sessions continue to be well attended and are very popular, with an ever- increasing number of new families starting on a regular basis. They are held on Monday mornings,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.