50 things to do before you're 5' app launches

Hundreds of families attended the launch of the ’50 Things to do before you’re five’ event at Millbrook Park on Saturday.

The Government of Jersey, in collaboration with the Best Start Partnership organisation, launched the free app for families with children under the age of five, as part of the COVID-19 recovery plans.

Find out more and download the app: 50 things to do before you're five in Jersey (gov.je)

The '50 things to do before you're five' app will help to support families and children to develop positive health and wellbeing habits in the early years and prepare children for future learning as well as promoting local activities and experiences.

Children and Education Minister, Deputy Scott Wickenden, opened the event and said: “Getting this project off the ground has been an ambition for the Best Start Partnership and the Childcare and Early Years’ Service, in the Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills for nearly two years.

"I would like to pay tribute to them and thank the team for working so hard to get this new app off the ground, which are part of the COVID-19 recovery plans.

“The Government of Jersey is delighted to have been able to support this project. It is a fantastic opportunity to bring together the families and children in our community through an app that promotes the importance of the early years in a child’s life through 50 fun, simple activities."

The activities that families engaged in at the Picnic and Play event at Millbrook Park were all taken from the app. The activities in the app are all low cost or no cost and highlight the many unique opportunities for children growing up in Jersey, with its beautiful beaches and playgrounds.

The activities support children’s developing skills and social relationships, help them to build firm foundations and make sense of new experiences, as well as promoting their well-being and resilience.

Deputy Wickenden added: “I am sure you will be able to see how your children love spending time with you this morning as you play alongside them. Time with your child is precious and we recognise that all parents want the best for theirs. Your role is vital, and in the words of Cathy Hamer, the chair of the Best Start Partnership, “We know that what parents do with their babies and young children shapes their development, educational attainment and life chances.”