Our mission is to create community-focused, playful learning experiences for children and their caregivers.
We're a group of parent volunteers in Walthamstow, London from diverse backgrounds on a mission to offer more affordable childcare and play opportunities, with creativity and collaboration at the core. We're passionate about bringing more joy, learning and a sense of belonging to communities through lifelong play.
Our goal is to set up creative, outside-the-box childcare and child education options - from stay & play sessions, to a drop-in crèche, pop-up community events, and maybe one day even a cooperative nursery, led by and for the community.
Our name is derived from an old folk story, where villagers contribute something into a pot of water and a stone and, collectively, make a delicious soup. We believe everyone has something to contribute. Find out how you can add to the pot!
Director
Find me at the allotment sessions or supporting our home-learning work!
"I needed a tribe and ended up being part of creating one. I wanted friends for myself as much as nature and play based experiences for my baby (now little girl!). I believe in play as learning, community and therapy. Since being part of starting Stone Soup I have now embarked on a Waldorf Steiner Early Years teacher training. I love story telling, holding space at Stay & Play sessions as well as getting grubby at the allotment."
Director
Find me at our community sessions, or designing engaging learning experiences!
"I found myself at a commercial baby class that didn't make me feel more connected to other parents, to my new baby or to myself as a new mum. Together with a group of local parents we thought that if we shared our experiences and skills in the 'pot' we could build something ourselves that would be a far more fulfilling offering. Into the 'pot' I bring my experiences as a qualified teacher and early years educator, interest in creative play using sustainable materials and an emphasis on connecting with nature."
Director
Find me at the allotment or behind the scenes on finance, compliance and impact!
"My belief that amazing things happen when a smart, determined group of individuals come together is most definitely affirmed by Stone Soup. This is a group that knows how to convene local parents, caregivers and their wee ones and show them a good time whilst cunningly ensuring they benefit educationally, mentally, physically and much more!"
Director
Find me at our community events or curating beautiful textile-based activities!
Most of us lose touch with our curiosity, our creativity and connection to nature as we grow up. With Stone Soup we try to ignite that spark again in parents and carers, to remind us that play is the main work of childhood and that learning never stops. The real life connections I’ve built here grew into a village which sustains my family now, and something I want for all parents and carers.
Community & Volunteer Engagement Lead
Find me running sessions, liaising with volunteers and reaching out in the community!
Since joining Stone Soup I have been alongside a group of empowering parents who help support local families and the community with their children’s home learning environment. It has been amazing watching the journey unfold and connections which have been built along the way. I am really excited for the future!
Director
Find me at the allotment or working behind the scenes on strategy and fundraising!
When I had my son in 2021, I couldn't believe how expensive childcare and even lots of the baby classes were, and I wanted to explore ways of creating a space that everyone could enjoy and benefit from. I was inspired by a group of local parents in the 80s who set up the First Neighbourhood Cooperative Nursery, which my partner and his family were part of. By connecting with other parents and building Stone Soup together, I have made so many friends, gained confidence as a parent and found that it is not just the children who learn and grow through these experiences.
We welcome short and long-term volunteers in all sorts of roles.
Our parent-led sessions are run by the community, for the community. We believe everyone has something they can put in the Stone Soup pot, no matter how big or small. We're actively looking to hear from people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The more volunteers we have, the more families can benefit and the more interesting and varied the sessions are for everyone. We'd love to hear from you.