What is PEEP+ DLR?

PEEP+ DLR is a programme for parents and their 0-2-year-old children who live in disadvantaged communities. PEEP+ stands for Parents as Early Education Partners and aims to equip them to form secure and strong relationships with their child. It is based on a tried and tested model. A University of Oxford study of its impact found positive effects on parent/child interactions and the quality of the care-giving environment at home. It also found an increased rate of progress for the children in early literacy development.

PEEP+ has been running successfully in four different areas in DLR county with support from a range of public and community-based organisations. Group sessions are held weekly for parents and their children aged 0-2, in disadvantaged areas and located within pram-pushing distance. Through a range of joint activities parents are supported to build strong relationships with their child, learn how to help their child’s learning and play, and strengthen their child’s emotional and cognitive development.

Why is it important?

The fact that the first 1,000 days in a child’s life are key to their development and will determine many aspects of the rest of their life, is now well established. Children’s health and physical, social and emotional development in this period is the basis for all further growth.

Many of the families participating in the PEEP+ programme live in areas with low employment levels and poor educational outcomes and this can be associated with addiction, mental distress and domestic violence. PEEP+ groups help parents to give their child the best first 1,000 days possible.

How does it work?

Every week participants meet in groups of seven parents and their infants or toddlers for a routine of structured activities, such as Walk and Talk, Snack Time, Circle and Play Time, Songs, Rhymes & Stories. The sessions take place in local community settings and are facilitated by experienced family support professionals, occupational therapists, and counsellors from local services. They focus on the strengths and skills of the parents as a starting point for further development. Parents and children have access to additional supports through close collaboration with relevant support services, including speech and language, and occupational therapists, and child psychologists. This means people can get the help they need when they need it. Parents can be referred to the programme by public health nurses, family support teams, staff in childcare services or schools, but can also apply themselves, if they are interested.

What do we need?

Changing Lives DLR is currently helping to support the expansion of the PEEP+ programme to two new communities in the county.  Further funding is required to resource the co-ordination of this programme and expand the reach of early years work throughout the county.

If you are interested in helping us to expand this work further, or to  learn more about PEEP+ or other early years initiatives, please contact us.