Playgroup opens its doors

By Diana Cormack
East Finchley Methodist Church on the High Road has become host to a new playgroup that started in mid June after another playgroup had to close. EFM Toddlers is open from 9.30am to 11.30am on Thursdays (term time only).

Up to 30 children can be accommodated in the large hall, where a wide range of play equipment is available. Various painting and handwork facilities are set out in the annex. To allow for change, all activities take place on a rotational basis. Story time and music sessions feature regularly.

It is run by volunteers who are mostly from the church and is led by Linda Askew and Chris Fairclough. Linda, who lives on the Thomas More Estate, told The Archer of the need for more playgroups in the area. Sadly the one at St Mary’s Church has had to close for financial reasons.

EFM Toddlers is open to everyone and, as well as giving youngsters the chance to learn through play and begin to socialise, it provides parents and carers with an opportunity to meet and form friendships. The kitchen serves adults with drinks and snacks at nominal prices but these are free to children. Entrance fee is £1.50 for the first child and 50p for a second. All proceeds go to funding the group, which is also run on a first come, first served drop-in basis. For more information contact 07905 102 721 or efmtoddlers@yahoo.co.uk

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