Toddle Ball

Funded through the Happy Early Years (HEY!) Fund, Toddle Ball were fun and engaging football sessions for families with 0-4s.

The sessions were run by experienced football coaches who encouraged and inspired children/parents to engage and parents to bond with their child through sport and physical activity. The sessions also increased social interaction between parents and children themselves, helping them to develop their self confidence and interpersonal skills.

Toddle Ball was led by dad, Hasnat Ali, a 33-year-old dad of three

“I have taken part in Better Start Bradford’s Dad’s activities, including cook and eat and wood workshops over the last three years. I really enjoyed the sessions as they allowed me to spend quality time with my children and I met other Dad’s to share our experiences.

“I really wanted to do football sessions for under 4’s as there are so many benefits. I was encouraged by another parent who had applied to the HEY! Fund before
and was successful.

“We provided a full kit for each child and the coaches also promoted the importance of healthy eating and exercise.

“It was an amazing experience, better than expected, with a great turnout of 10 – 15 children every week. At the end of the 10-weeks we had a mini tournament where all children were presented with a trophy and certificate as recognition for participating. This was a key highlight as it put massive smiles on the children and families’ faces.

“This experience has really helped my personal development. I have gained a lot more self-confidence, feel comfortable in leading sessions and built a trustworthy relationship with the parents.”