Daniel's Den, Wembley

Daniel’s Den is a parent and toddler group in the shadow of Wembley Stadium, running several sessions each week. The families come from a diverse background, with over 30 different nationalities being represented. Urdu, Albanian, Nepalese, Somalian, French and Arabic are just some of the many languages spoken.

Joanna Gordon talks about the joys and challenges of a multicultural parent and toddler group.

Many come to this country looking for a ‘better’ life, leaving family and friends behind. This can lead to unbearable loneliness and isolation. But all our parents and carers share a common interest in looking after a child. And if we welcome them and their children with genuine warmth and unconditional love they will come back time and time again.

We recognise that people like to speak in their mother tongue, and we also try to build friendships across cultural lines. Language can be a barrier but there’s usually someone who can translate.

People like to feel needed, and those who have no friends because they are new to the country like to be involved. I encourage them to come early and help set up our sessions - this gives more time to chat one to one.

Everyone has something to give and something to receive. At a recent fun day we offered all types of food, being sensitive to cultural difference (eg halal meat, vegetarian food). People were quite proud to share their traditional dishes, and many were keen to try the new flavours.

To celebrate diversity, we’ve produced our own calendars in different languages, and arranged a fashion show where people wore national costume and shared food.

If we take time to listen, we will learn a lot and our lives will be enriched. It’s fascinating to hear all the traditions surrounding childbirth and postnatal care. We can learn from other cultures about family life – many of which place greater value on family than we do.

We are a Christian organisation, but we have many Muslims and Hindus attending. We have one session with Bible stories and Christian songs, but we don’t do this in our general sessions because if we did, many would not come. It’s giving people choice that is important. We also have one session in the week that is attended by women only.

The children always take home the message of Christmas and Easter. We acknowledge the other festivals, such as Diwali and Eid, just as we acknowledge birthdays. This again shows genuine respect.

Toddler groups bring many challenges but they bring great joy, and it is often working through these issues that you discover more about yourself as well as others.

Find out more about Daniel's Den at www.danielsden.org.uk.

Click to read about Care for the Family's Playtime project, supporting those running parent and toddler groups.

Last Updated 03 December 2010