Supporting parents, building brighter futures
Barnardo's Virtual Family Space is proud to be working in partnership with Croydon Council to offer free, parenting workshops for local families.
These short, practical sessions are designed to give parents and carers tips, tools, and confidence to support their children’s development and wellbeing.
Whether it’s managing routines, building positive relationships, or navigating tricky moments, our workshops provide trusted advice in a supportive space - helping you and your family feel safer, happier, healthier, and more hopeful.
Got questions about the workshops?
When are workshops taking place?
Workshops are taking place during the day and evenings over the next few months so we hope you can find one at a time that works for you. Find the workshop you're interested in and then click the booking button. Scroll down to see the days and times it's running.
Where are the workshops being held?
The workshops are all being held online so you can join in from where you are. They’ll happen using Microsoft Teams and you can access them on a mobile, tablet, PC or laptop.
Can I book on more than one workshop?
Yes, you can! If you want support in more than one area, for example with sleep and potty training, you’re welcome to take part in both workshops.
How do I join the workshops online?
When you book we’ll send you an email with a Microsoft Teams link. You don’t need a Microsoft Teams account to join our workshops just click on the link.
Follow these steps to get started:
Joining on a Mobile or Tablet
- Tap the workshop link in your email.
- The first time you join, you’ll be asked to download the free Microsoft Teams app from your App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android).
- Once installed, tap the link in your email again and it will open in the Teams app.
- Choose “Join as a guest.”
- Type in your name, then press “Join meeting.”
Joining on a PC or Laptop
- Click the workshop link in your email.
- A new browser window will open. Choose “Continue on this browser” (no download needed).
- If you prefer, you can also download and open the free Microsoft Teams app.
- Allow your browser to use your camera and microphone if prompted.
- Type in your name and click “Join now”.
Top Tips
- Try joining a few minutes early the first time, so you can test your sound and video.
- If possible make sure you’re in a quiet place.
If you have any problems, please get in touch with our Family Space team.
For extra help, you can also visit Microsoft’s step-by-step guide:
Who do I contact if I've got questions?
If you need help or more information, get in touch with our friendly Virtual Family Space team.
Potty Training
Ready to say goodbye to nappies? Join our friendly potty training workshop for expert advice and guidance. We'll cover our effective three-step ‘Let's Go Potty’ approach and discuss:
- Preparation to use the potty.
- Practising potty skills.
- Stopping using nappies as your child gains confidence.
- Support for older children to use the toilet
A BSL-signed recording of this workshop is available, on request.
Ready for Reception, Ready to Learn
Starting school or nursery is a big step not just for your child, but for you too. It’s completely normal to have questions, worries, and lots of emotions as this exciting new chapter begins. In this supportive workshop we'll explore how to choose the right school or nursery for your child, what to expect and how to get your child ready. We’re here to guide you so that both your child, and you, are ready to learn.
Healthy Smiles – Oral Health
It’s not always easy discussing dental health, but we’re here to talk to you about oral hygiene and how diet can affect your children’s teeth – and yours too! We’ll discuss the impact of sugary foods but also ways to prevent tooth decay. You’re never too young (or old) to learn how to take good care of your teeth!
A BSL-signed recording of this workshop is available, on request.
Toddler Talk
Have you ever wondered how to help your child as they start to find their voice? This friendly and practical workshop is here to guide you through simple, everyday ways to support your child’s speech and language development.
We’ll share fun, playful ideas to build communication skills and strengthen your bond all while turning learning into something you both enjoy.
Empowering Dads and Male Carers
Being a dad or male carer comes with many roles - partner, protector, provider, listener, friend. It can feel like a juggling act, and it’s easy to put your own wellbeing at the bottom of the list.
We'll explore how to prioritise your mental health, and help your children with theirs, too. We want you to feel confident in your role as your adjust to life with a new baby or navigate other stages of parenting. Whether you're thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between, you're not alone, we're here for you.
Sleep
We all know how important sleep is for your little one, and for you. But getting into a good bedtime routine can be easier said than done. As well as advice on establishing a calming bedtime routine we'll also cover safe sleep practices for babies and young children. We want everyone in your family to feel well rested so let’s work together to make bedtime a little smoother for everyone.
Childhood Illnesses and Prevention
Coughs, colds, and other minor illnesses are all part of growing up, but that doesn’t make them any easier to manage. This friendly and informative workshop will help you feel more confident in understanding common childhood illnesses, spotting the signs, and knowing when to seek help. We'll cover immunisation and some of the things in our environment that can trigger illnesses in children as well as simple steps to help prevent the spread of illness and help keep the whole family healthier.
A BSL-signed recording of this workshop is available, on request.
Looking for more support?
Barnardo’s Family Space
Wherever you are on your parenting journey, from pregnancy to the teenage years, we’re here for you. You’ll find friendly advice on everything from brushing teeth to healthy eating, plus support for each stage of your child’s growth and development.
Family Hubs in Croydon
Family Hubs are run by services working together to support you, such as health services, the council, and the voluntary and community sectors. Find activities for families, young people and children in the Woodlands and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Family Hubs.
Stay in touch with Family Hubs Croydon on Facebook
Keep up to date with what’s happening at the Croydon Family Hubs. Join the conversation, share your experiences, and discover local events and support for you and your family.
Connect with Family Hubs Croydon on Instagram
Follow for tips, events, and snapshots of family life in Croydon.