Norfolk playgroup wins national award

The founder of a Norfolk-based pre-school group has won a prestigious national award for outstanding children’s activities provision.

Rachel Curtis of Munchkin and Me was named Customer Service Champion at the UK Institute of Children’s Activity Providers (ICAP) Awards, which recognise ‘outstanding contributions to the sector’ along with ‘innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence’.

Open to businesses across the UK, the awards celebrate the best in the competitive field of children’s activity provision.

“This award is not just for us – it’s for the incredible families who bring so much energy, joy, and enthusiasm to every session,” said Ms Curtis, who runs the immersive story- and play-based sessions.

“Norfolk has been the heart of our journey, and the support from the local community and council has been invaluable.

“Our vision is to nurture a love of stories in the early years, supporting each baby’s and child’s development, as well as the parents’ and carers’ emotional wellbeing.

“Seeing friendships forming, and smiling faces, is what we are all about, and to see Munchkin and Me recognised on a national stage is a dream come true and the icing on the cake.”

“So many new mums approach us before attending the group, explaining how anxious they feel,” she continued. “To see them leave their first season smiling, relaxed, and looking forward to the following week is what it’s all about.

“Supporting mums, and the work we do alongside national, father-focused charities, such as Dadvengers, is all about combating the loneliness and isolation that can come hand-in-hand with becoming a new parent.”

The ICAP Award is just the latest in a string of successes for the three-Gold-Kite-accredited group, which has also been recognised by What’s on 4 Kids and Muddy Stilettos, and was a finalist in the King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Mayor’s Business Awards and the National Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF) Awards.

Those attending Munchkin and Me were equally full of praise.

“When I had my son, three or four people recommended Munchkin and Me,” said mother Melissa Green. “Everyone was quick to say how brilliant the group is.

“We first started going when he was only three weeks old, and now, aged two, he runs and bangs on the door when we arrive.

“I remember being so nervous that I even did a practice run the night before. But all the nerves were gone within five minutes of being in the room. We’ve made some lovely friends through the group, including my best friend.”

Teacher Luke Edwards attended a session with his sister and her two-year-old, and added: “Rachel was really welcoming, and there were so many brilliant activities for developing children. It was really great to hear phonics, dexterity skills, and animated, imaginative play.

“It’s a wonderful class – very interactive and with lots of happy little ones. I told my sister she must keep going.”

In addition, there has been support from the Royal Foundation’s Shaping Us campaign, which promotes the importance of early years provision.

“Guidance for new parents on supporting their children’s early speech and language acquisition can be difficult to find,” explained Catherine King, who is Executive Headteacher at the Sandringham Federation.

“Local mother-and-toddler groups, such as Munchkin and Me, provide a unique opportunity for families to engage with Rachel’s inspiring songs and storytelling, bringing literature and language to life for our littlest learners.”

For more information, visit www.MunchkinandMe.co.uk