Hundreds turn out for Flying Start’s Family Fun Day

Earlier this week, the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Flying Start team hosted a fun-filled day at Penceodtre park.

Flying start partnered with over 40 services and organisations including the Vale Youth Service, Vale Libraries, Pedal Power and South Wales Fire Service to deliver a range of free activities for families to enjoy.

The activities included graffiti painting, bouncy castles, magician, cycling and arts and crafts.

Kathryn Clarke, Flying Start Manager said: “Today’s event was an opportunity for agencies and the community to reconnect following a challenging two years. 

"Our events are usually held annually, but due to the pandemic, we have had to put certain events on hold. 

"It has been fantastic to see so many families from across the Vale attend today. 

"A big thank you goes to the Flying Start team and our partner agencies for making the event a huge success.”

The Vale parenting team were one of the many services present on the day. Rachel Evans, Parenting Practitioner said: “It’s amazing to see everybody moving on from the pandemic and enjoying today's Family Fun Day. 

"Now we can approach the new academic year in a positive way for our Children and Families.”

The day attracted families from across the Vale. We spoke with a few of the families enjoying the many activities.

One family said: “It’s really nice to see families coming together to enjoy the day. 

"I am here with my sister and her children, and our daughters are very excited about the rock climbing wall. 

"Free activities for families are more important than ever with the rising costs of living.”

The day also provided an opportunity for the teams to engage with residents and raise awareness of the many free services available in the Vale to support families.

Deborah Lewis, Adult Education Development Officer said: “Today is a great opportunity for us to engage with local families and raise awareness of our service and our upcoming opportunities.”

The Flying Start scheme is a Welsh Government Early Years programme that supports families and improve children’s development, health, and wellbeing. The service comprises of four entitlements which provide childcare, healthcare, parenting programmes and language development.

Sue Davies, Flying Start Senior Early Years Practitioner said: “The team do an amazing job and we are really proud to work for Flying Start because they are an excellent service that make a real difference.

“Today, families can visit our stand for a jungle themed singing experience to promote speech and language and encourage parental support in story-telling and singing.”

The day is just one of many free activities available for young people this summer. Summer Of Fun will run until 30 September and offers a range of free activities, suitable for children and young people aged up to 25.