A Covid Community Role winner has started a group for families with children up to five years old.

Reshmi Kalam, who has previously been recognised as a covid hero, is supporting parents whilst their children learn and play at the Maidstone Islamic Centre (MIC).

The free sessions began on Thursday, January 27, and will be held every week from 10 to 11.30am.

Reshmi, from Covid-19 Mutual Aid, said: "It’s an exciting time to start a group like this, especially when Covid restrictions have started to ease off.

"It’s time for small kids who have missed their normal lifestyle to resume these activities just how they did pre-pandemic.

"The group has already started to have a positive effect among parents as they find other local families who share similar struggles."

During the sessions various activities such as book reading, sensory skills, social playgroups, role plays, messy plays, art and craft, baking workshops, early year learning, rhyme time and dress-up days will be available.

The group started with the intention to help the parents of Maidstone, irrespective of their culture, background, religious beliefs or gender, to find support for themselves as parents and their little ones.

Reshmi, who is also founder of Homelearning Maidstone, added: "Through this group, we have spoken to families about how difficult their little ones have felt during the pandemic lockdown.

"A group like this makes them feel encouraged to come out and enjoy things like they used to do before.

"It’s all free of cost and was created to encourage the community to revive.

"Our group will help families grow in a healthy fun learning environment."

If you would like to find out more or have any enquiries email Reshmi on: reshmi.kalam@maidstonemosque.com.

You can also just walk into MIC at 20-28 Mote Road, Maidstone ME15 6ES and ask for the group.