Upcoming Events
đź“ť About the Session
- What we will be doing: When a young person shows what we often call “challenging behaviour,” it is usually a signal of distress rather than defiance. This workshop will reframing challenging behaviour as communication (the signal!), helping us see what lies beneath the surface. Together, we will explore why these distress behaviours occur with clear examples, look at the foundations of boundary setting, reflect on why standard advice around consequences may not always help, and learn how rethinking our responses can foster safety, trust, and well-being.
- What to expect (The Vibe): An interactive, collaborative workshop format designed to give you a clearer lens for understanding behaviour and practical tools to support both your child and yourself. The course runs from 10:00am – 12:00pm, followed by lunch and dedicated time for your questions. Each in-person course has a maximum of 15 attendees.
- Who it’s for: This session is specifically for parents and carers navigating autism and neurodiversity. We apologise, but these courses are not suitable for children and there is no childcare available. This is a chance for you to learn practical tools, build family relationships, and chat with people who get it!
- Date & Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm (Plus lunch and questions afterwards)
🎤 About Our Presenter / Guest Speaker
Who is joining us:Â Laura (Laura ND Nurse)- What they will be sharing:Â Insights into understanding distress behaviours as communication, practical approaches to boundary setting, and tools to navigate moments of distress while building trust and safety.
- About the Presenter: Laura is Autistic/PDA and ADHD herself. She is a Nurse, Sleep Consultant, Advocate, and a parent to two neurodiverse children—so she is living the life and talking the talk. While her speciality is supporting Autistic/ADHD people, her teaching is created in a way that can be helpful for all families as the foundations centre around mental health, strengthening family relationships, and self-advocacy.
- Website / Further Info:Â www.laurahellfeld.co.uk
🤝 Funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum
Our Funding Partners: We’re proud to share that these Laura ND Nurse workshops have been fully funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum, ensuring parents and carers can access this valuable, identity-affirming support. Their commitment helps make these sessions inclusive and accessible for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.
đźš— Getting There & Arrival
- Parking Details:Â There is plenty of parking available around the back of the building (including designated Blue Badge spaces) as well as additional street parking on the roads surrounding the venue.
- Finding the Little Hiccups Group:Â Look out for the Little Hiccups signs and team members on arrival to direct you straight to our workshop space.
🚶 The Venue Space & Seating
- Room Layout & Lifts:Â The venue and course space are entirely on one level (ground floor).
- Access Requirements:Â Please do let us know if you have any specific access requirements so we can ensure you are fully accommodated.
đźš˝ Toilets & Accessibility
- Standard Accessible Toilet:Â Yes, accessible disabled toilets are available on-site.
- Changing Places Toilet:Â Yes, this venue features a full Changing Places toilet facility.
🍰 Atmosphere, Food & Drinks
- Lighting & Noise Levels:Â The workshop is limited to a maximum of 15 attendees to maintain a comfortable, relaxed, and conversational environment.
- Food & Refreshments:Â Lunch will be provided directly after the workshop session. When booking your ticket, please ensure you let us know of any dietary requirements you may have.
⛑️ Safety & Venue Details
- Little Hiccups Staff:Â As always, our staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure everyone feels welcome. If you are nervous about coming alone, drop us a message beforehand and we will make sure someone meets you at the door!
🎟️ How to Book
Spaces are limited to a maximum of 15 attendees so we can keep the workshop size relaxed and comfortable. Please book your spot below:
Important Booking Information:
Bookings close exactly one week before the event to allow for catering and session planning. Please note that our events are heavily subsidised by Little Hiccups to support our community. Because the charity covers the remaining costs based on our final confirmed numbers (such as venue hire, lunch, refreshments, and presenter fees), we kindly ask that you let us know if your plans change. If you can no longer make it, please cancel your places by emailing events@littlehiccups.co.uk so we can reallocate the spots and prevent charity funds from being lost.
If you have any questions, dietary requirements, or are unsure about attending for the first time, please reach out to us at
events@littlehiccups.co.uk. We’d love to have you join us!
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/educational-informative/
Description: Join us for a stimulating and supportive Baby Sensory session. These classes are designed to engage your baby’s senses through light, sound, and texture, providing a wonderful bonding experience for you both. It is also a brilliant opportunity to meet other neonatal parents in a relaxed setting.
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When: Every Wednesday
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Time: 11:45 am – 12:30 pm
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Location: Lovabelle, Visage House, South Shields
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Cost: Free for eligible families
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Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/
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Description: Inclusive yoga sessions designed specifically for parent-carers to help manage stress and physical health.
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Date/Time: Mondays 11am-12pm & Wednesdays 1:15pm-2:15pm.
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Cost: ÂŁ2 per session.
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Location: Grace House, Bardolph Drive, Sunderland, SR5 2DE.
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Contact: 0191 435 2088 | info@gracehouse.co.uk
Come along for a magical journey through sound, light and imagination in our free-flow open play session! Families are warmly invited to spend time exploring three unique sensory spaces designed to ignite wonder and relaxation:
• 🌧️ Rainforest Sensory Room – Immerse yourselves in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, where misty lighting, gentle animal calls, and tactile surprises bring nature to life.
• 🌌 Space Sensory Room – Blast off into an interstellar experience! Glide among glowing stars, soft projections and cosmic calm in this soothing, space-themed escape.
• 🎵 Music Room – Get playful with rhythm and melody in an inclusive space filled with instruments, musical toys, and joyful tunes for all ages and abilities.
🕒 Drop in, explore at your own pace, and connect with other families in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re seeking stimulation, tranquility or shared smiles, each room offers something a little different and every child is free to discover in their own way.
đź“Ť Perfect for families of children with additional needs. Our team is here to ensure the experience is accessible, comforting and full of delight.
We also have a fully accessible changing area with hoist and full size medical bed.
Huge thanks to Baily Thomas Foundation for sponsoring these sessions.
This relaxed and supportive session combines art, colours, textures and writing to help you explore your thoughts, reflect on your experiences, and express yourself in a creative way.
No artistic experience needed 
 just come along and enjoy the process.
 FREE for parent carers
Starting Wednesday 22nd April
 10am – 12 noon
Weekly sessions (excluding school holidays)
A lovely opportunity to relax, connect with others, and boost your mental wellbeing through creativity.
 Spaces are limited!
Book Now: https://bookwhen.com/gracehouse#focus=ev-swlne-20260417180000
đź“Ť Venue: Sensory World, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF13 1NB
đź“… Day: Every Thursday
🕒 Time: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
What’s Included?
🎨 Creative Activities:
- Gluing
- Painting
- Mosaic
- Crafts (ÂŁ4.00 per person)
🍽 Delicious Lunch:
- 2-course meal for just ÂŁ5 per person
Why Join Us?
This is a welcoming space for adults with learning difficulties to enjoy creativity, social connection, and a hearty meal in a supportive environment.
Booking Details
đź“ž Call: 07801 065589
âś… Pre-booking is essential to secure your spot!
📍 Venue: Sensory World Café, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF13 1NB
đź“… Day: Every Thursday
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Why Join Us?
Don’t feel isolated. Don’t be alone.
Our Luncheon Club is a warm, friendly space where you can enjoy good food and great company.
What’s Included?
🍽 Two-course meal for just £5
Relax, chat, and share a meal in a welcoming environment.
Who Can Come?
âś… Everyone is welcome!
Perfect for anyone looking for social connection and a delicious lunch.
Booking Details
No need to book in advance – just come along!
For more information, contact Sensory World Café.
Description: A fun and rhythmic session for you and your little one! Baby Bounce uses songs, rhymes, and gentle movement to support early language development and physical coordination. It’s a great way to boost your baby’s confidence while chatting with other parents who have had similar neonatal journeys.
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When: Every Thursday
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Time: 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm
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Location: The Word, South Shields
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Cost: Free for eligible families
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Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/
Kid’s Fitness is a great way to try out lots of different sports and games. The group is led by specialist fitness instructors who are able to safely coach children of all abilities and levels of need.
Children will enjoy getting fitter as they try out a range of activities, including Boccia, dance and team games.
All sessions are for children aged 5-17 years and are ÂŁ4 per session, with spaces booked for the term and paid monthly. A free taster session is offered for all activities.
If interested, please email: childrensprojects@sheffieldmencap.org.uk or call 0114 2767757
Gateway youth club is suitable for children with a mild learning disability and/or autism and their siblings.
The wide range of activities on offer are planned collaboratively with members, including sports, games, art and crafts, films, quizzes and cooking. There are regular themed activities too, such as Halloween and Christmas parties, Easter Egg hunts and sports-themed days. Children may also choose to just relax and enjoy spending time with other young people. Gateway youth club is a great place to meet new friends and develop social skills.
All sessions are for children aged 5-17 years and are ÂŁ4 per session, with spaces booked for the term and paid monthly. A free taster session is offered for all activities.
If interested, please email: childrensprojects@sheffieldmencap.org.uk or call 0114 2767757
Â
Dance21 is our high-energy dance group for young people aged 12 and over.
These sessions focus on creative movement, socialising, and fitness. It is a fantastic way for older young people to build their self-esteem, learn new routines, and catch up with friends every week.
Like our junior group, these sessions are led by Claire King, ensuring a supportive and expert-led environment for all participants.
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When: Every Thursday
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Time: 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm
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Where: Footsteps Theatre School, Idle, BD10 8PY
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Cost: ÂŁ3.50 donation on entry (This allows our dancers to practice handling money and paying for their own sessions).
How to Join
We are always looking to welcome new faces to our dance family! If you would like to attend or have any questions about the sessions, please visit our website or get in touch.
Find out more: https://www.downsyndromebradford.com/
Short Description:
A dedicated, supportive 8-week course for parents and carers to pause, recharge, build emotional resilience, and develop practical tools to navigate daily challenges with confidence.
Full Description:
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while putting your own to one side? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to find time to reconnect with yourself.
Calm Within is a supportive space created for parents and carers to pause, reflect, and recharge. Over 8 weeks, you will explore practical tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and self-compassion. This is not about being the perfect parent—it’s about learning to support yourself, understanding your own needs, and discovering how creating calm within yourself can positively impact every area of your life.
What You’ll Explore:
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Finding greater calm, balance, and practical tools for everyday challenges
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Building emotional resilience and confidence
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Developing a deeper connection with yourself and creating healthier boundaries
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Feeling grounded, centred, and supported in a safe, welcoming space
Spaces are intentionally kept small to ensure a warm, focused group environment.
Event Details:
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Start Date: Thursday 24th September 2026
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Duration: 8 weeks
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Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm
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Tutor: Victoria
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Group Size: Maximum of 10 participants
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Cost: ÂŁ25.00 per person, per week
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Location: Birkenshaw, BD11 2EX
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Booking Enquiries: Leedstherapyhubcic@gmail.com
A fortnightly emotional wellbeing drop-in group run by Family Focus North East for parents, carers, and children aged 10–13. No referral or diagnosis needed.
Event Details:
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Organisation: Family Focus North East
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Venue: Deckham Family Hub
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Start Date: Friday 28th August
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Frequency: Fortnightly (every two weeks)
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Age Group: Children aged 10–13 years along with their parents/carers
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Cost: Free
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Contact Email: familyfocus2026@gmail.com
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Supported by: The National Lottery Community Fund
About the Event
Calm Connections is an informal emotional wellbeing drop-in group run by Family Focus North East.
It provides a safe, welcoming space for parents, carers, and young people aged 10–13 who may be:
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Feeling anxious or overwhelmed
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Experiencing low mood
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Struggling with emotional regulation
Key Information:
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No referral is required
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No diagnosis is needed
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No pressure – just a safe space to connect and receive support
Get in Touch:
For any questions or more information, please email familyfocus2026@gmail.com.
Event Description
We are pleased to share this wonderful, free group from our network partners at the Deaf Empowering Network (DEN), run in collaboration with Teesside.
The Little Connections Playgroup is a welcoming space specifically for Deaf and hard-of-hearing children, as well as their parents and carers. It is an excellent opportunity for little ones to play and for families to connect and share experiences. Every child attending will also receive a free juice and snack.
Event Details
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For: Children aged 0–4 with deafness or hearing loss, along with their parents/carers. (If your child is already in school, you are still very welcome to pop in for a chat!)
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Cost: Free
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Booking: No booking required—just turn up and join the fun!
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Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
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Location: Community Hub South, Wynyard Rd, Hartlepool, TS25 3LQ
Upcoming Dates (Fridays):
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17th July 2026
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14th August 2026
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21st August 2026
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11th September 2026
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9th October 2026
Contact & Enquiries
If you have any questions about the group, please contact the organisers directly:
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Email: hello@deafemp.com
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Text: 07425 566084
Please note: This event is hosted and run by the Deaf Empowering Network. It is shared on our website on behalf of our network partners.
đź“Ť Venue: Sensory World, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF16 7SX
đź“… Day: Every Friday
đź•™ Time: 10:00 AM
What’s On?
🧩 Games & Activities:
- Scrabble
- Telephone
- Other fun word and social games
🍴 Food & Drinks:
- Available throughout the session
- Licensed bar for refreshments
Who Can Join?
âś… All welcome!
This is a friendly, inclusive space for socialising, playing games, and enjoying good company.
Booking Details
đź“ž Call: 07801 065589
No booking fee – just come along and join the fun!
đź“ť About the Session
- What we will be doing: When a young person shows what we often call “challenging behaviour,” it is usually a signal of distress rather than defiance. This workshop will reframing challenging behaviour as communication (the signal!), helping us see what lies beneath the surface. Together, we will explore why these distress behaviours occur with clear examples, look at the foundations of boundary setting, reflect on why standard advice around consequences may not always help, and learn how rethinking our responses can foster safety, trust, and well-being.
- What to expect (The Vibe): An interactive, collaborative workshop format designed to give you a clearer lens for understanding behaviour and practical tools to support both your child and yourself. The course runs from 10:00am – 12:00pm, followed by lunch and dedicated time for your questions. Each in-person course has a maximum of 15 attendees.
- Who it’s for: This session is specifically for parents and carers navigating autism and neurodiversity. We apologise, but these courses are not suitable for children and there is no childcare available. This is a chance for you to learn practical tools, build family relationships, and chat with people who get it!
- Date & Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm (Plus lunch and questions afterwards)
🎤 About Our Presenter / Guest Speaker
- Who is joining us:Â Laura (Laura ND Nurse)
- What they will be sharing:Â Insights into understanding distress behaviours as communication, practical approaches to boundary setting, and tools to navigate moments of distress while building trust and safety.
- About the Presenter: Laura is Autistic/PDA and ADHD herself. She is a Nurse, Sleep Consultant, Advocate, and a parent to two neurodiverse children—so she is living the life and talking the talk. While her speciality is supporting Autistic/ADHD people, her teaching is created in a way that can be helpful for all families as the foundations centre around mental health, strengthening family relationships, and self-advocacy.
- Website / Further Info:Â www.laurahellfeld.co.uk
🤝 Funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum
- Our Funding Partners: We’re proud to share that these Laura ND Nurse workshops have been fully funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum, ensuring parents and carers can access this valuable, identity-affirming support. Their commitment helps make these sessions inclusive and accessible for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.
đźš— Getting There & Arrival
- Parking Details:Â There is plenty of parking available around the back of the building (including designated Blue Badge spaces) as well as additional street parking on the roads surrounding the venue.
- Finding the Little Hiccups Group:Â Look out for the Little Hiccups signs and team members on arrival to direct you straight to our workshop space.
🚶 The Venue Space & Seating
- Room Layout & Lifts:Â The venue and course space are entirely on one level (ground floor).
- Access Requirements:Â Please do let us know if you have any specific access requirements so we can ensure you are fully accommodated.
đźš˝ Toilets & Accessibility
- Standard Accessible Toilet:Â Yes, accessible disabled toilets are available on-site.
- Changing Places Toilet:Â Yes, this venue features a full Changing Places toilet facility.
🍰 Atmosphere, Food & Drinks
- Lighting & Noise Levels:Â The workshop is limited to a maximum of 15 attendees to maintain a comfortable, relaxed, and conversational environment.
- Food & Refreshments:Â Lunch will be provided directly after the workshop session. When booking your ticket, please ensure you let us know of any dietary requirements you may have.
⛑️ Safety & Venue Details
- Little Hiccups Staff:Â As always, our staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure everyone feels welcome. If you are nervous about coming alone, drop us a message beforehand and we will make sure someone meets you at the door!
🎟️ How to Book
Spaces are limited to a maximum of 15 attendees so we can keep the workshop size relaxed and comfortable. Please book your spot below:
Important Booking Information:
Bookings close exactly one week before the event to allow for catering and session planning. Please note that our events are heavily subsidised by Little Hiccups to support our community. Because the charity covers the remaining costs based on our final confirmed numbers (such as venue hire, lunch, refreshments, and presenter fees), we kindly ask that you let us know if your plans change. If you can no longer make it, please cancel your places by emailing events@littlehiccups.co.uk so we can reallocate the spots and prevent charity funds from being lost.
If you have any questions, dietary requirements, or are unsure about attending for the first time, please reach out to us at
events@littlehiccups.co.uk. We’d love to have you join us!
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/educational-informative/
Description: Enjoy a calming and restorative Baby Yoga session. Led by Kalma Life, these classes focus on gentle stretching and movement for your baby, promoting flexibility and relaxation. It’s a peaceful environment to connect with your child and share support with other neonatal families.
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When: Every Friday
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Time: 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
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Location: Ridgeway Family Hub (Kalma Life)
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Cost: Free for eligible families
-
Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/
The Active Lifestyles Group meets for two hours on a Friday afternoon for a two hour trip through some of Leeds’ finest parks.Â
This group is free.
Most weeks there are about 10 members joining us, with support workers where required.
Our trips are reasonably gentle. They last for the full two hours with short stops for rests when somebody needs one.Â
We aim for paths and grass, rather than scrambling up rocks.
We meet at a different venue each week. Examples of parks we visit are: Roundhay, Middleton and Golden Acre.
Absolutely FREE!Â
Every Friday
13:00 until 15:00
Meet at the location, which will change every week
People can join by contacting Al Mayes on 0113 2443729 or al.mayes@peopleinaction.org.uk
Description: This nurturing session focuses on the benefits of infant massage, including improved sleep, digestion, and emotional bonding. Run by Kalma Life, it provides a quiet, safe space to learn soothing techniques while connecting with a community of parents who understand the neonatal experience.
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When: Every Friday
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Time: 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
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Location: Ridgeway Family Hub (Kalma Life)
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Cost: Free for eligible families
-
Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/