Play @ Home

play@home is a programme developed in Fife to help parents give their child a healthy start in life.

The programme originated in the Waikato region of New Zealand, and has been adapted for use in Fife, through a partnership between Fife Council Education Service and NHS Fife.

play@home consists of three books; the baby book for children from birth to one year, the toddler book for children from one to three years, and the pre-school book for children from three to five years.

The programme recognises that the first seven years of a child’s life are the most influential in establishing good exercise habits. Everything children do is exercise and health related. Establishing daily exercise routines early in childhood encourages children’s enjoyment of physical activity and promotes the value of parents doing exercise as role models. The programme strengthens the relationship between parents and children to develop their self-esteem, giving them confidence to try new activities.

Parents have a crucial role to play in encouraging their children to develop friendships and interact with situations outside the family home. This programme is not only about what parents can do for their children but, just as importantly, what parents can do with their children.

Parents of all new babies in Fife will be offered the first book by their Health Visitor. The second book will be posted directly to the parents’ home around the child’s first birthday. The third book will be issued when the child enrols in nursery.

Parents who move into Fife from another area should ask their local Health Visitor for a copy of the relevant book for their child. Alternatively you can contact the co-ordinator on the number below.

For further information click on the leaflets on the right of the page, visit the website https://www.playathome.org.uk or contact:

play@home
Health Promotion Fife
Haig House
Cameron Hospital
Leven
Fife
KY8 5RA

Tel: 01592 226488