A free adult learning programme that supports parents and carers with children, from birth up to five years old, in Aberdeen is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
Peep (is not an acronym) recognises that parents and carers are children’s first and most important educators and offers focused support to families to help their children to learn and develop through play and positive interactions. Aberdeen City Council delivers the initiative locally with social work, foster carers, health, education and volunteers working in partnership.
Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “While Peep is a learning programme, it also offers peer support to parents and carers of young children. Being able to meet others who have gone through similar experiences can empower parents and carers to develop as individuals and by doing so enrich their children’s lives.
“Thanks and appreciation must go to everyone, from staff past and present to parents and carers who have all contributed over the past 20 years to Peep Aberdeen’s success.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, Vice-Convener of Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Through the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff, parents and carers over the past two decades, Peep Aberdeen has gone from strength to strength.
“I would encourage any parent or carer of a new baby or has a child of pre-school age, to contact Peep Aberdeen to find out more about what is on offer that could benefit them and their young children.”
Weekly Peep sessions are held mainly during school term times with locally based support groups. Sessions include songs, stories, play activities and the chance to meet other parents and carers to share ideas and experiences.
Peep also offers targeted peer support groups for families who might lack confidence or feel vulnerable, such as young parents, kinship or foster carers, and those moving on from domestic abuse, postnatal depression or feeling low or for whom English is a second language.
The Peep Progression Pathway formally recognises the learning that occurs within a Peep session and at home. Parents and carers can reflect on their child’s development, and their role as first educator in a keepsake book, which can be assessed to gain credits recognised by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. This can be used as a route to access college courses or to gain employment.
Peep Aberdeen can be contacted via:
Email: Peep@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeepAberdeen
Website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/social-care-and-health/peep
Photo: Peep Aberdeen’s 20th anniversary was celebrated by parents, carers and staff, past and present, at a special event held at Cummings Park Community Centre.
Here is a short video taken at various Peep Aberdeen events during 2023.