The National Day Nurseries Sunflower Challenge was backed by celebrity gardener Charlie Dimmock, who pointed out that water-related diseases accounted for about 15 per cent of all child deaths under the age of five in developing countries. NDNA chief executive Rosemary Murphy said, 'The sunflower growing scheme is an excellent early years project as well as a chance to raise money for a good cause.'
National Childcare Month aims to make parents aware of services in their communities and involve a wide range of daycare providers and families in local activities. The celebration is organised by the Daycare Trust, the NDNA, the National Childminding Association (NCMA), the Pre-School Learning Alliance and the Kids' Clubs Network, and supported by the Department for Education and Skills. Other events include:
* Bournemouth Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership's (EYDCP) Family Fun Day at the 37-acre Littledown Centre on 16 June.
* A seminar to mark National Childminding Week organised by the NCMA at the Royal College of Physicians in London on 19 June. Speakers will include early years minister Catherine Ashton and Dr Tony Munton of the Institute of Education, who will speak about quality childcare and the new Investors in Children scheme.
* Worcestershire EYDCP's showcase of childcare provision on 22 June, with various activities for children.
* Surrey EYDCP's series of roadshows to raise the profile of childcare provision.
* Solihull's Celebrating Childcare fun day, organised by the Solihull Children's Information Service, on 29 June. Staff will be on hand to answer queries from families.
For more information on National Childcare Month, visit the website www.nationalchildcaremonth.com or contact the Daycare Trust on 020 7840 3350.
