Devon County Council are backing the national Best Start in Life campaign, with a focus on children who will start school in September 2027. This includes children currently aged three to four, who are about to begin their final year in nursery or pre-school.
Parents and carers of young children in Devon are being encouraged to use free local support to help their child get ready for school.
Devon County Council are backing the national Best Start in Life campaign, with a focus on children who will start school in September 2027.
This includes children currently aged three to four, who are about to begin their final year in nursery or pre-school.
Through Devon’s Family Hubs, families can access a wide range of free advice, support and activities designed to boost early development, communication and confidence.
Services are brought together in one place, making it easier for parents and carers to find the right help at the right time, close to home.
Support is available to all families, and parents do not need a referral to access it.
Whether it’s advice on play and learning, building routines, supporting speech and language, or accessing childcare, the focus is on helping children thrive in their early years and feel ready for school.
Family Hubs also provide inclusive support for children with additional needs and disabilities (SEND), helping ensure every child has the chance to do well when they start school, and that families feel supported, listened to and able to access the help they need.
Family Hubs work closely with schools, health services and local organisations to provide joined-up support for families across Devon. Many sessions take place in local communities, including village halls and other familiar settings, so families can access support close to where they live.
Alongside face-to-face support, parents and carers can also benefit from digital tools such as the new EasyPeasy app launching on Monday 27 July, offering simple, everyday ideas to support children’s learning through play at home.
Parents and carers will have opportunities to help shape services, ensuring support continues to reflect what families need most.
Councillor Julian Brazil, Devon County Council’s Leader and Cabinet Member for Education said:
“Starting school is a big step for both children and parents. We know it can feel exciting but also a little daunting.
“The early years are vital in helping children feel confident and ready to learn.
“Our Best Start in Life plan aims to make sure every child in Devon has the strongest possible start and feels ready for school.
“And our Family Hubs are here to make that journey easier, offering simple, practical support that helps children build confidence and get ready to learn.
“We want every family in Devon to know that support is there for them, whatever their situation.”
Parents and carers are encouraged to contact their local Family Hub to find out what support is available and how it can help their child as they prepare for school.
More information is available on the Devon County Council website: Find out more about Devon Family Hubs.
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