The Caterpillar Club, part of Diverse Abilities’ Langside School, will relaunch on Friday April 22 following the COVID-19 pandemic providing vital support and advice for children under four with physical learning disabilities and their families.

A free, fun, and friendly group, the Caterpillar Club is a chance to meet other parents that have children with complex disabilities while the child can enjoy a wide range of multi-sensory activities and meet other children. Three families are hosted each week to ensure everyone receives the direct support they require, and siblings are also invited.

Taking place every Friday morning from 10.30am until 12pm at Langside School, those in attendance will also be able to meet the school’s multidisciplinary team of nurses, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists to discuss any concerns or questions they may have.

Nicki Priddle, assistant headteacher at Langside School and leader of Caterpillar Club, commented: “The idea here is for children to have fun, but also for parents to see how their children respond to a stimulating environment. Parents can learn about the equipment we use and the various educational techniques we employ to help children to develop their skills.”

Weekly sessions are tailored and themed alongside the school’s bespoke curriculum including music, art, massage, sensory sessions, and stories. 

One parent who attended Caterpillar Club before lockdown said: “My daughter’s twin brother regularly attends Caterpillar Club with her and loves it just as much. It’s a chance for parents to get together while our children can meet each other and play. It’s also helpful to speak to the trained staff at Langside with all the questions we have raising a child with disabilities.”

The school is hosting a series of drop-in sessions between Wednesday 6 April to Friday 8 April for anyone who would like to see the space and find out what is on offer in an informal setting. To arrange a visit before the relaunch, or join the Club’s waiting list, email caterpillarclub@diverseabilities.org.uk or call 01202 518635 to speak to Nicola and find out further details.

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/caterpillar-club for further details about the service.