Getting the most out of 'Smalltalk'

'Smalltalk' is a handout for you to give to the parents and carers who attend your toddler group.

Each handout deals with a specific topic - about parenting, relationships, or other life issues. Topics covered so far have included: healthy eating, surviving Christmas, and welcoming newcomers. A link to relevant Care for the Family resources is also included, where they will find further information and support.

'Smalltalk' is published every half-term. There is also a special summer holiday edition, giving a total of 7 a year. You'll find the latest edition at the bottom of every Playtime newsletter or you can select a topic which is of particular interest from the back copies available in the archive.

Print off 'Smalltalk' in colour or, more economically, in black and white for photocopying. Use it alone or on the back of your group's newsletter. You might even like to print off an extra copy to display in your church or on your toddler group notice board.

If you are using it as a discussion starter, it may be helpful to hand it out individually with a pre-prepared, one-line open question, e.g. "Do you ever struggle with…?" But remember to allow enough time to stop to listen if they do want to talk about the issues raised.

Last Updated 08 January 2010