TODDLERS from two pre-schools in Chester have been taking part in brand new classes aimed at supporting their health and wellbeing

Using the purpose-built dance and activity studio at Ashtree Day Nursery in Blacon, children from pre-schools at both Ashtree and its sister nursery, Chestnut House Day Nursery in Saughall have started a brand new term of Stretch ’n’ Grow.

The free and inclusive classes incorporate movements from yoga and gymnastics and aim to develop children’s gross and fine motor skills and also help enhance their creativity and physical expression too.

Louise Hassall, Area Manager for both nurseries, said: “We’ve been delighted with the reaction from the children during our weekly Stretch ’n’ Grow sessions. They have been really engaged and we’ve already seen their confidence grow session by session.

"In Early Years learning it is of utmost importance that the children feel motivated and stimulated creatively and physically and this is yet another way for us to help shape the most formative years of their lives in a pro-active and positive way.”

Ashtree Day Nursery also features a swimming pool, where pre-school children who attend for more than 30 hours, receive free weekly lessons. The pool, which is designed for use for Pre-School children from one month old, is also open to hiring for small groups or individual parents and guardians at a small cost.

Louise said: “Here at Ashtree we not only see ourselves as a nursery and after school club - but a community hub too. Our parents and our children are already fully immersed in the facilities we have invested in and we want to encourage people in Blacon and beyond to be aware that they can make the most of them too.”

For more information about how to hire the dance studio or swimming pool at Ash Tree Day Nursery go to www.blacondaynursery.com or email chestnuthousedaynursery@hotmail.co.uk.