Getting little ones moving from the start is all about creating fun, safe spaces that help them grow strong, confident, and curious. Early years physical development (EYPD) isn’t just about keeping tiny bodies healthy; it sets the foundation for everything else, from learning new skills to making friends and feeling good in themselves.
Being active from the get-go helps kids thrive in all areas and is why we’re so passionate about giving children the best start in life.
Come and explore our popular preschool class, Mini Movers, designed for 0-5 year olds!
Our programme follows the Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines and adds a fun twist with a unique award scheme that links to Key Stage 1 of the National Curriculum. Kids move, play, and learn at their own pace, earning certificates and badges as they go, celebrating every little win.
It’s all about child-led play that sparks growth, confidence, and social skills. Plus, the first session is on us for all new little movers!
Our Stay and Play sessions are all about fun, friends, and discovery. Little ones can build, read, explore, play instruments, race vehicles, and so much more, all in a safe, relaxed, and friendly space.
And it’s not just for the kids. Parents and carers can meet other local families, chat over a brew, and share a few laughs. Sessions run term-time, pay-as-you-go, and are a great way to help children prepare for pre-school, nursery, or reception.
Timetable:
All sessions are £2.10 per child and include hot drinks for the adults.
Baby Splash and Toddler Splash are all about building water confidence while having tons of fun. Parents and carers join in, helping little ones feel safe, happy, and confident in the pool.
Baby Splash is perfect for infants 0–4 years*, and Toddler Splash is for pre-schoolers 2–4 years. Sessions are pay-as-you-go, but we recommend booking online up to seven days in advance to avoid missing out. New little swimmers get their first session free!
Activities focus on water movement, safe entry, underwater confidence, and basic swimming skills. Once your child is ready, they can take the next step with our Swim Tots lessons.
Bookings are easy—either online through your child’s account or directly at reception at your chosen Life Leisure pool.
*Babies can join in once you feel ready (before vaccinations), but check with your midwife or health visitor for the best start time.
Introduce your little football fans to the popular game with coach-led sessions on one of our outdoor pitches at Stockport Sports Village.
Timetable:
Suitable for children aged 3-4 years
Can you go for a walk in and around your local park or green space and see if you can feel, smell, see or hear some of the things on the below activity sheet?
Print off or take with you on your phone to join in this activity in your community and engage your little ones senses.
Top tips for supporting your babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers from Greater Sport:
If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food, milk and vitamins.
You can apply online if:
Active children are healthy, happy, school ready and sleep better. Children aged one to five should aim for at least 180 minutes of exercise per day. This can be in the form of messy play, swimming, sports and many more!
If you’re unsure on ways to share books with your little ones, Greater Manchester’s top tips provide suggestions and activity ideas to incorporate reading into their lives from a young age and develop a love of books.
It can be tricky to know how to start preparing your child for school. Gather Movement has created 12 simple ideas for helping to prepare your child to start reception.
Ready for more? Once they reach school age, there’s loads more to dive into!
