Where The Wild Things Are

Funded through the Happy Early Years (HEY!) Fund, this six-week stay and learn group offered families with 0-4s the opportunity to meet live animals up close.

Interaction with animals has helped teach the children about the world around them and built their confidence, sense of responsibility and curiosity about animals.

The children interacted with farm animals, birds, snakes, tortoises and much more.

Where the Wild Things are was led by mum of four, Haleema Bibi

“When I moved to Bradford from London, I did not know anyone and started to take my children to different sessions run locally by Better Start Bradford which helped me to familiarise myself with the area and make friends in the local community.

“I volunteered with another HEY! Fund project and came up with the idea to invite different animals to sessions so children can learn about them and see them up close and in person, to take pictures and have lovely memories.

“It has been a wonderful experience for myself and all of the families who attended. It gave me the confidence in calling around providers and booking them in for sessions, arranging activities and snacks for children. There have been challenges in making sure everyone can attend and not miss out on seeing the animals are the session.

“The biggest highlight was taking the families on a trip to the Web Adventure Park in York – it was wonderful with no challenges at all. The whole experience has helped my personal development, it has given me confidence speaking to people and professionals. It has helped develop my planning and organising skills. I set up different activities for the children, worked to a budget with the funding and made sure I was getting the best value for money.

“I would love to run more sessions for my local community and if I get more opportunities I will work with children and their families as I have the confidence in running groups on my own.”