5. Family, communities and cultures
Help your child understand how important they are through the people, places and experiences around them. By supporting your child to learn about their family, their community and the different cultures around them, will help them to develop respect, confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
Pre-schoolers (3 to 5 years)
- Talk about your own family and traditions, share photos and stories that are special to your family. This will help your child feel proud of who they are
- Explore other cultures together. Share books from your local library, listen to different music and try foods from other cultures
- Children are naturally curious, answer questions openly and positively to build their understanding
Toddlers (18 months to 3 years)
- Use everyday items to encourage role play at home. Encourage your child to act out their routines, revisit birthdays and other celebrations that are important to your family
- Explore a variety of music, songs and dance from around the world to develop your child’s understanding of other cultures
- When out and about in your local area, talk to your child about the people around you, their jobs and what they do to help you. Show respect and kindness through your words and actions
Babies (Birth to 18 months)
- Spend time with and share photos of family and people who are important to you. This helps babies feel connected and develop a sense of belonging
- Join in with local community groups such as Baby Play at the Family Hubs, library events and baby groups
- Be a positive role model. Smile, wave and greet people when you are out and about. Involve your baby in these early interactions as this will build the foundations for kindness and respect
Best Start Family Hubs
Best Start Family Hubs are support centres that bring different services together in one place for families with children aged 0–19, or up to 25 for those with additional needs. Each Best Start Family Hub is a 'one-stop shop’ where you can find guidance from the Integrated Children and Families Service to keep your child healthy, safe, and looked after.
We’re here to help you and your family in our seven Best Start Family Hubs and wherever you need us, including in community spaces throughout Oldham and in your home. Our services are designed to give your children the best start in life, and you can access support, activities, and events in our Best Start Family Hubs throughout your children’s lives.
Find your local Best Start Family Hub here. Follow us on social media:
50 Things To Do Before You're Five
50 Things To Do is about giving all children the best start in life. It is based on the simple idea that quality time as a family away from screens enjoying the indoors and outdoors together. This is a great way to support children’s development. That’s why we’ve put together 50 fun, low or no-cost activities for you to explore and an enjoy at your own pace. Why not download the app where you can capture your memories with photos, print out certificates and find out about local events.
50 Things To Do Before You're Five - website
Videos
We highly recommend visiting the Tiny Happy People BBC website, which includes videos and further information on the topics covered here and the subject of Getting Ready for School
- Tiny Happy People - BBC website
Online Support
My First Day at School - A great game from the BBC KS1 support section to play with your child. Help your child create his/her character and pick a school jumper, then explore the school and find all the different activities to play.
Visit the BBC Bitesize website to access the game - My First Day at School
If you have any concerns about a childs safety or wellbeing, more information can be found here.