Open Arm Tots and Friends

Welcome to Open Arms Tots & Friends 🤍

We offer a weekly parents, kids and tots group in Southend. This is called Open Arm Tots, and it’s FREE (donations accepted). You’re warmly invited to bring your babies and kids who are under 5 years old to meet other parent and their children as well.

Are you looking for a friendly, relaxed space where your little ones can play while you connect with others?

Open Arms Tots & Friends is a welcoming weekly group designed especially for children aged 0–5 and the grown-ups who care for them.

We meet every Tuesday morning from 9:30am to 11:30am at Ferndale Baptist Church, Southend-on-Sea.

We’ve created a safe, fun, and encouraging environment for families to come together.

“Where little ones play and grown-ups connect.”

Each week is filled with simple joys — from singing and interactive activities to a variety of toys that keep little hands and minds busy.

Whether your child is full of energy or prefers quieter play, there’s something here for everyone.

But it’s not just about the children — it’s about you too.

Open Arms is a place to build friendships, share life and enjoy a warm drink in good company.

We’re proud to be grandparent-friendly, so whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or carer, you’ll feel right at home.

Open Arm Tots Southend Ferndale Baptist Collage Picture

What you can expect:

🎶 Singing and fun group time

🧸 Toys and activities for all ages 0–5

☕ Refreshments every week (including tea & coffee)

🤝 A welcoming, supportive community

We’d love to see you there. You’ll receive a warm welcome. Come along and be part of something special.

Whether it’s your first time attending a group or you’ve been to many before, you’ll find Open Arms to be a place where everyone is valued and included.

There’s no need to book — just come as you are and join in at your own pace. For more information, please contact Jenny on 07376 347826, or by email

ferndalebaptist.info@gmail.com. 

Some parents stay for a quick chat, others settle in for the full session — it’s completely up to you.

Over time, many who walk through our doors find not just a group, but genuine friendships and a sense of belonging that lasts beyond Tuesday mornings.

Are you looking for a fun place in Southend to bring your kids?

If you’ve been searching online for toddler groups in Southend, baby and toddler groups Southend-on-Sea, or things to do with toddlers near me, Open Arms Tots & Friends is a great place to start.

Many local parents and carers are looking for safe, friendly spaces where their children can play, learn, and socialise—and where they themselves can meet others in a similar stage of life.

Our group is ideal for anyone looking for parent and toddler groups in Southend Essex, whether you’re a mum, dad, grandparent, or childminder.

We understand that early years can feel both joyful and challenging, which is why creating a relaxed and supportive environment is at the heart of everything we do.

For parents searching for baby groups in Southend or activities for under 5s in Southend-on-Sea, Open Arms offers a simple and enjoyable way to get out of the house, establish a routine, and give your child valuable opportunities to interact with others.

Regular attendance at toddler playgroups in Southend can help children build confidence, develop social skills, and enjoy new experiences through play.

We also know how important it is for parents to find connection. Many people look for mum groups in Southend, support groups for parents, or simply a place to have a conversation over a cup of tea.

Open Arms is a space where friendships grow naturally, and where you can feel supported, encouraged, and never alone.

If you’re new to the area or searching for family-friendly activities in Southend-on-Sea, this is a great way to get connected locally.

Our Tuesday morning sessions are easy to drop into, with no booking required, making it one of the most accessible free toddler groups in Southend.

We regularly welcome families from across Southchurch, Thorpe Bay, Shoeburyness, and wider Southend, so wherever you’re based, you’ll find a warm and inclusive atmosphere waiting for you.

So if you’ve been Googling “toddler groups near me Southend” or “baby playgroups Southend Essex,” why not come along and see for yourself? You’ll find a friendly face, a safe space for your child, and a community that genuinely cares.

We’d love to welcome you this Tuesday at Open Arms Tots & Friends.