The Wiggle & Play Caregiver Connection Project aims to reduce caregiver isolation and support well-being during the early years of parenthood by expanding accessible, community-based programming across Belleville, Tweed and Trenton.
At Wiggle & Play, we believe caregivers need opportunities to connect just as much as children need opportunities to play. Our sessions create welcoming environments where infants and young children can explore safe, engaging, open-ended play while their caregivers have an opportunity to slow down, build relationships, share experienced and find support. We also welcome local professionals through our Let's Talk series, creating relaxed opportunities for caregivers to ask questions, access trusted information and connect with resources within their community.
Since launching in Spring 2026, we've seen encouraging participation and growing interest from local families. Building on our established Belleville programming, we are developing partnerships to bring these opportunities into additional communities.
L.E.A.F. funding would help us establish consistent, well-equipped programming at three community locations through durable play equipment, infant-friendly spaces, caregiver hospitality supplies and shared resources that rotate between sites. This approach reduces the challenges of transporting equipment while allowing us to deliver engaging, welcoming experiences in each community.
Our goal is to create more than a space for children to play. We want caregivers to leave feeling connected, supported and a little less alone.
Together, we're creating the village.
The early years of parenthood can be incredibly rewarding, but they can also be isolating. Many caregivers spend much of their day caring for young children, with limited opportunities for meaningful adult interaction and support.
Not every caregiver has an established support network nearby, and finding opportunities to build relationships while caring for little ones can be challenging.
Community engagement matters because these connections can make a meaningful difference in a caregivers everyday life. Having people to share experiences with, turn to for encouragement and build friendships with helps create a sense of belonging that extends beyond a single gathering.
When caregivers feel connected and supported, our communities become stronger places for families to grow.
support
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Wiggle & Play has and continues to be a valuable asset for the local community. Providing an inviting and supportive space for little ones and their caregivers.
I am extremely thankful for Wiggle & Play.
As a first time mom, I felt easily overwhelmed by all the things I ‘should’ have been doing with my daughter, and I truly never felt comfortable with attending many of the more structured offerings that are available.
Wiggle & Play was EXACTLY what I was looking for, for both my daughter and myself, to get socialization in a non-pressured environment. It was incredible to watch her personality blossom and new skills be nurtured at our sessions!
Always a good time connecting during this program!
It’s been amazing watching this program grow! Wiggle & Play is a great addition to our community and local families.
It is a fantastic idea ans a great way to build community and support for each other. I know there are a lot of things that I would be able to make happen with.
Having the opportunity to be a guest speaker at Wiggle and Play was such a wonderful experience. It gave me the chance to connect with members of the community, build meaningful relationships, and share the work I’m so passionate about. I truly value and appreciate the community they have built and the welcoming, supportive space they’ve created for families. It’s so special to see a local group bringing people together, fostering connection.