You can start your child's journey to bilingualism from the outset. There are many pre-school settings for babies up to 3 year olds. The family information service (click here) can provide further information. However, the below are a few opportunities
- Baby groups and baby massage
- Cymraeg i blantÌý– Mudiad Meithrin offers practical support for new parents on how to start introducing Welsh to their baby. As well as offering helpful advice on Welsh medium childcare and education the local Cymraeg i blant officer offers fun, free groups including baby massage, baby yoga and sign, story and rhyme sessions which are suitable from 0-18 months.
- ÌýThe Cylch Ti a Fi gives parents/carers of babies/young children the opportunity to meet once a week to socialise, share experiences about parenting skills, and to play together in an informal Welsh atmosphere. In the Cylch Ti a Fi you can enjoy making new friends, playing with toys, learn to sing simple Welsh songs and listen to Welsh stories with your child.Ìý
- Cylch Meithrin / Flying Start is a Welsh-medium playgroup which offers your child an opportunity to socialise and learn through play under the guidance of professional and qualified staff. By attending the Cylch Meithrin your child will begin their journey to Welsh-medium education and will develop into a confident individual ready to take the next natural step into Welsh-medium education at school.Day Nursery/Childminder
Ask your local provider how they use Welsh in everyday activities.
The Flying Start Bilingual Journey
In 2023 and 2024 Blaenau Gwent will be opening 2 more childcare settings one in Tredegar and one in Ebbw Vale, these will be run via a private childcare provider to be determined in Autumn 2022.
As a parent If you do not speak Welsh, don’t worry; the organisations who run playgroups welcome non-Welsh speaking parents who want to introduce their children to Welsh. Try to talk as much as you can in Welsh with your children. This will help them to speak naturally and confidently.
Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Helyg has full time Nursery provision and due to the nature of Welsh Medium, children are able to access the free home to school transport provided for statutory school age pupils.
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