Glasgow children's programme celebrates 50 years of pla

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A children’s enrichment programme is celebrating 50 years of play-based learning.

Gymboree Play and Music, which helps babies and young children learn through play, marked its golden anniversary with special events at its Bearsden and Milngavie and Glasgow South centres.

Families gathered on Saturday, August 22, for a day of music, games and play activities to celebrate the milestone anniversary.

Lisa Rafiq, director at Gymboree Play and Music Bearsden and Milngavie and Glasgow South, said: "Over the years we've had the privilege of seeing thousands of local children learn, grow and develop through play, and many of those families have become part of our wider Gymboree community.

"What made this anniversary particularly special was hearing from parents who attended classes themselves or who remembered bringing older children years ago and are now returning with a new generation.

"Those stories are a wonderful reminder that while childhood may have changed, the value of play, connection and community remains as important as ever.

"It was fantastic to celebrate this milestone with so many local families."

Families across Glasgow came together to help Gymboree Play & Music celebrate its 50th anniversary (Image: Gymboree Play & Music)



For mum, Ashleigh, Gymboree Play and Music has been an important part of family life.

She said: "I attended Gymboree Play and Music with both of my boys over the last few years.

"It has not only been amazing fun for them (and for me!), but it has really helped them developmentally, whether that was learning to crawl, taking their first steps or growing in confidence socially.

"It's the 'Gymboree effect' that I always tell everyone about.

"We'll miss so many things, but especially the wonderful people who lead the classes.

"Every single member of the team has been so warm, kind, helpful and patient.

"Gymboree Play and Music has given us so many happy memories as a family, and we're so grateful to have been part of it."

The programme has become a multi-generational tradition for many.



Arleta Darusalam, franchisor, Gymboree Play and Music UK, said: "Perhaps the greatest testament to the power of play is the number of families who continue to return generation after generation.

"For 50 years, Gymboree Play and Music has provided welcoming spaces where children can learn, grow and build confidence through play, while parents and carers have the opportunity to connect with one another and build lasting friendships.

"Our Play-osophy has always been built on a simple belief: children learn, grow and thrive through play.

"While childhood has changed enormously over the past 50 years, that belief remains just as relevant today.

"It was wonderful to see families across Glasgow coming together to celebrate 50 years of learning, laughter and connection."

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