By Isle of Wight Observer
A popular Cowes toddler group has closed its doors after a decade of supporting local families, with its final graduation ceremony marking the end of an era.
M&M’s toddler group, run by Mary and Margaret, began at St Mary’s Church in 2016, after taking over from Rose when she retired. The weekly sessions quickly became a popular meeting place for parents, grandparents, carers, and young children.
As the group grew, additional storage was created at the church to house the expanding collection of toys and equipment. The team also became well-known for decorating a church window at Christmas, Easter, and Cowes Week, as well as taking part in the Cowes Methodist Church Christmas Tree Festival.
During the Covid lockdowns, when the group could no longer meet indoors, Mary organised toy boxes that were delivered to families and regularly swapped, ensuring children always had something different to play with. Once restrictions eased, sessions were temporarily held on the grass outside the church, before moving to Northwood Cricket Club in September 2021 to meet Covid ventilation requirements.
Over the years, Jackie and later Gill joined the volunteer team, all having previously worked in primary schools. The group also received donations from local organisations to replace toys and supported local charities and community causes through fund-raising.
Each year, children leaving to start school celebrated with their own graduation ceremony, complete with hats and scrolls.
Announcing the group’s retirement, Team M&M’s said they had thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many families over the years, and would always remember their toddler group days with affection, while continuing their own friendship over coffee and lunch.
Tilly Walder