Introducing invest in play® from the Best Start in Life Team

Would you like more positive moments with your child?

Do you sometimes find yourself repeating the same instructions, managing big emotions, or wondering how best to respond to challenging behaviour?

You’re not alone.

The new Best Start in Life Team at Gloucestershire Gateway Trust is excited to offer invest in play® – an evidence-based parenting programme that helps parents and carers build stronger relationships with their children through play, connection and positive attention.

What is invest in play®

invest in play® is a 12-session parenting programme for parents and carers of children aged 2-12 years.

The programme has been shown to help children develop:

Social skills and confidence
Emotional regulation
Positive behaviour
Stronger relationships
Improved self-esteem

It can be particularly helpful for families with children who are experiencing behavioural difficulties, low self-esteem, ADHD, autism or challenges with managing emotions.

Most importantly, invest in play® focuses on strengthening the relationship between parent and child – because children thrive when they feel connected, understood and supported.

How does it work?

The programme teaches six practical strategies that help build a strong foundation for your child’s life.

These strategies help parents and carers to:

Use play and positive attention to strengthen relationships and trust
Support children’s learning, communication and emotional development
Set caring boundaries that create a predictable and secure environment
Understand behaviour and respond with confidence
Manage strong emotions – both their own and their child’s
Create calmer, more positive everyday family life

The sessions are welcoming, supportive and practical, giving you opportunities to learn new skills, share experiences and connect with other parents and carers.

Meet the Best Start in Life Team

The Best Start in Life Team is based at Bartongate Children and Family Centre, Gloucester’s Best Start in Life Hub.

Our team has received specialist training in invest in play® and are looking forward to supporting families across Gloucester and the Forest of Dean.

Join a free taster session

Before our full programme begins in September 2026, we’re inviting parents, carers and professionals to come along to one of our free drop in taster sessions.

These sessions are a chance to meet the team, learn more about invest in play®, ask questions in an informal setting and register your interest for our programmes.

Whether you’re looking for support with challenging behaviour, want to build your child’s confidence, or simply want more positive family time, we’d love to welcome you. Simply pop along to one of our drop in taster sessions.