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Mini Wonders

Mini Wonders is a programme for parents and caregivers with children aged 2 to 4, designed to build their confidence and develop new skills so they can support their child’s social and emotional development.

Mini Wonders is part of a national pilot programme created by child-development specialists and the UK’s leading museums, along with Art Fund and Nesta.

Running over 8 weeks, the programme featured weekly sessions that are fun and creative, where the adults and children can spend time playing together and meeting other families. Mini Wonders is supported by the Children and Families team at the Bluecoat, including Emily Hughes and Oleta Omar La Cruz.

The group sessions have been led by Tabitha Moses, an experienced creative facilitator from the Bluecoat, along with artists Nicki McCubbing, Leila Chebbi, Emma Hirons, Erin Rowlands and Karen Wynne.

The sessions have been designed with evidence-informed principles, drawing from tested parenting support and family programmes.

 
Leila Chebbi, Make-it-at-home activity. Based on '5 More Minutes', an interactive session with playful performance, movement, live music and puppetry exploring the magic that we can make during the bedtime routine.
 
 
 
 


These sessions covered themes including:

  • naming feelings

  • child-led play

  • descriptive praise

  • warm and positive communication

  • encouragement and rewards

  • the importance of routines

  • tips for encouraging good behaviour

  • reflective listening

Throughout the programme, children are invited to play and get creative, and adults can chat and support one another.*

*Please note, this programme is not currently seeking participants. If you are interested in the programme, or would like to know more, please contact: miniwonders@thebluecoat.org.uk

Mini Wonders is part of a national pilot programme that is being created with child-development specialists and the UK’s leading museums, along with Art Fund and Nesta.