New app aims to support and inspire parents with ideas for free and low-cost activities

A new app for parents of under-fives has been launched by Suffolk Libraries.

50 Things to Do Before You're Five is a new app and website full of inspiration and ideas for parents and carers for free and low-cost activities in their local area, all designed to have a positive impact on learning and health.

Through the location-based app, families can find fun activities in Suffolk with simple guides, top tips, book suggestions and local links that are accessible and fun!

50 Things provides plenty of health benefits - both physical and mental - for the entire family. There are opportunities for improving language development and learning as families take part in activities together, enhancing family bonding and creating positive environments for children to grow and thrive.

The project has already been rolled out in many other parts of the country and the Suffolk version of the app has been created with funding from the Department for Education. It aims to help lay the foundations for literacy and education by helping young children get a head start in their learning journey and in engaging and understanding the world around them.

The app lists 50 activities or themes including fun ideas such as ‘Making Music’, ‘Mini Beasts and Bug Hunting’ ‘See the Stars’ ‘Dance’ and ‘Sharing Books’. Parents can collect 50 Things posters from any Suffolk Library and tick off activities as they complete them with their children.

Erin Hamilton, Suffolk Libraries Children’s Librarian, said:

“We’re delighted to be launching this new app in Suffolk.  It’s packed with ideas and resources for families to discover.  It’s all designed to give parents and carers some fresh inspiration for things they can do with their young children.  

"As most of the activities are completely free, families can enjoy their time together without the worries of expense.  At its core, the app is there to encourage families to spend time together making memories and sharing experiences.”

The app contains all the information, guidance and supporting resources to allow parents to build a memory bank of photos and videos, as a collection of their child's special moments.

Additionally, for children with special educational needs there is guidance to ensure they receive maximum benefits from the activity.

You can download the app onto your smartphone or tablet on the App Store and Google Play.