Developmental Programme for 2-3 Year Old’s

The Developmental Programme for 2 – 3yr old’s was established in Sure Start South Armagh in 2007.

The programme aims to offer children and their families the opportunity to access high quality play provision.  This has proven to enhance children’s early learning and development

The Stepping Stones Programme delivered by Sure Start South Armagh is designed to support children aged between 2 to 3 year old and who would benefit from a higher level of targeted input before transitioning to preschool or nursery. The programme provides up to four hours of supported play each week in a purpose designed indoor and outdoor environment, delivered in small groups to ensure high levels of individual attention. It focuses on developing children’s speech, language and communication, social interaction, physical development, and emotional wellbeing.

Alongside child-focused sessions, the programme places strong emphasis on parental support and involvement, offering stay-and-play sessions, parent support networks, a structured parenting programme, and regular home visits from a keyworker. Families also benefit from multidisciplinary input from the wider Sure Start team, including Speech and Language Therapy, Health Visiting, and Family Support, with timely referrals to external services when needed.

Overall, Stepping Stones aims to strengthen children’s readiness for the next stage of their education while empowering parents with skills, knowledge and confidence to support their child’s development and navigate education systems effectively.