'Good Company' in Knockholt, Kent

Janet Evans shares her ideas for socialising with her group, including how to get the men involved…

“I help run a toddler group in Knockholt, a commuter village near Sevenoaks in Kent.

“Last summer, for the carnival, the dads got together and built a float. The women from the group know each other well, but most of the dads and grandads had never met, so it was good to do something constructive (literally!) together.

“It was a real bridge-building exercise. They had lots of laughs and a great end-product! Following this, we organised a men’s ‘Good Company’ (the name of our group) on Saturday morning, so that the mums could have a morning off to do Christmas shopping.

“We have had other socials – one of the best times we’ve had was sorting/washing the toys one evening. Everyone bought a dessert and we ate after a much-needed job was complete! We also have meals out, mulled wine and mince pies at Christmas.

“We are a friendly group and have lots of laughs. The mums try to make sure that new people feel welcome and most quickly join in. I love it when the mums and childminders say it’s the best group they have ever been to!”

Last Updated 13 July 2009