Small steps, big futures.
Across the country, local authorities are working hard to support Best Start in Life priorities, particularly around its three pillars: Integrated Family Support, High-Quality Early Education & Childcare, and Breaking the Link Between Background and Future Success.
Our national campaign, Small steps, big futures highlights how “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five” supports local authorities to strengthen early years systems through simple, meaningful experiences that families and practitioners can build into everyday life.
Developed in Bradford and now used in 23 localities across the nation and reaching over 750,000 children, 50 Things offers a shared, place-based approach that brings together early years, health, education, culture and community partners to support children to reach their social, emotional and physical milestones.
With the new Best Start in Life Match Fund, local authorities now have a timely opportunity to invest in 50 Things, combining BSL funding with matched philanthropic support, to bring the programme to more children, families and neighbourhoods.
This page showcases everything you need to get started with 50 Things To Do Before You’re Five, and will continue to grow as we add more videos, publications and evidence that shows how 50 Things can support Best Start in Life priorities. Check back regularly to explore what’s here, and follow our campaign journey.
"50 Things is the medicine you need to secure the Best Start in Life"
If you work in a Local Authority team, education, health or the early years sector, 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five is gaining interest due to our alignment with BSiL priorities.
While the Best Start in Life Match Fund offers one route to adopting 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five in your local area, local authorities can also take up the 50 Things offer through their own funding.
Resources.
Briefing Papers
A number of briefing papers focusing on the key areas of the BSiL strategy.
Case Studies
Read our story of impact, plus those from partners, settings and families.
Over 4.5 million are growing up with their lives scarred by poverty. We are seeing a persistent gap between children growing up in areas of disadvantage compared to those from affluent backgrounds. This gap exists from the moment a child is born and impacts them throughout their education, relationships and outcomes in life.
The Best Start in Life Strategy published in July, set out a target for 75% of children to achieve a good level of development by 2028.
