TRAVELLERS' BREAKFAST STORY

PROMOTING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT in collaboration with The Traveller’s Trust, Clifton Children’s Centre and Arts Action York

TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESS WORKING WITH THE UNDER FIVES & PARENTS/CARERS

• Open communication at all times.
• Constant consultation with groups hence fostering a sense of ownership and control of what they are taking part in. 
• Consultation is best done informally; general chat, rather than being talked to. 
• Throughout the consultation process one of the most important things to consider is that when groups are told that something will happen or that they can have something, these things must always be followed through. If things fail too happen a group can soon become very despondent. 
• Activities should always be considered in relation to the groups’ capabilities, wants and needs. Not what the childcare workers feel is appropriate or achievable or easiest to clean away! 
• Activities must always seem non-threatening. Due consideration needs to be paid to this when planning engagement. The full spectrum of capabilities needs to be catered for. 
• Activities must always be age appropriate and stimulating for all those involved in the session. 
• It is always a good idea to collect feed back from participants during sessions to feed back to funding bodies or use to secure future funding and to make sure you are providing the right environment and activities. 
• Photographic evidence is always useful, but must never be obtained or used with out written parental consent. 
• To provide as large a space as possible. With areas for free movement, under fives can cover a lot of ground in a short space off time. 
• To provide a clean, safe environment. 
• An open, friendly, happy approach!

Top Tips from Kirstie Briggs Bateman, Textile Artist

Storycatch supported by City of York Council (Inclusive Arts, Arts & Culture) - July 2010