More than 80 Family First nurseries turned their settings into wonderlands and invited in children and local families to raise money for children’s charity Starlight. 

The nursery teams opened their doors for local families and children to host their Spring Playdate event with activities including Easter egg hunts and bonnet making, silent auctions, fancy dress and face painting.  

Guests could also purchase special pieces of art the nursery children had painted in exchange for a donation and were also treated to buffet breakfasts, mocktails bars and lots of tasty treats cooked up by the Nursery Chefs at the special open days. 

In total, the Family First nurseries raised £15,135 for Starlight, the UK’s leading charity for children’s play in hospitals and hospices, who work to ensure every child experiences the power of play. 

As play can reduce fear, pain and trauma, the charity advocates for this during a child’s treatment and recovery from illness.   

James Chaplin, director of Nurseries – UK at Family First said: “We were blown away by the support and generosity from our families at our Spring Playdate.  

“It was an opportunity for everyone to come together as colleagues and families to have some fun, whilst supporting the incredible work of Starlight. Thank you to everyone who came along and donated.”  

Sarah Woods, director of fundraising and marketing, Starlight said: “We’re hugely grateful to everyone at Family First for putting on such a wonderful Spring Playdate for local families and to everyone for attending and raising funds for Starlight.  

“Play is not just a nice to have, it is vital in helping to alleviate anxiety, isolation and fear when children are in hospital, so we can’t thank them enough for their support. The money raised at the event will help fund our vital services such as our range of boxes containing toys and activities for children in hospitals and hospices around the country.”