NATIONAL Sure Start Children s Centre Week finished today with celebrations across the nine sites in Times Territory coming to an end. Activities included arts and craft days including t-shirt printing, messy play, collage and leaf printing. But if you

NATIONAL Sure Start Children's Centre Week finished today with celebrations across the nine sites in Times Territory coming to an end.

Activities included arts and craft days including t-shirt printing, messy play, collage and leaf printing.

But if you're sat here thinking just what is one of these children's centres, read on.

The hubs are part of the Government's Every Child Matters programme, aimed to bring together a range of health and family-support services for families with children under the age of five within a community environment.

Among the range of services on offer at these places include integrated early learning and childcare for babies and children, support for childminders, antenatal advice, child health information and drop-in sessions.

Also the centre provides early identification of specials needs and disabilities with family support, as well as information and guidance on breastfeeding, hygiene, nutrition and safety.

A county council spokeswoman said: "Children's centres are a national Sure Start initiative designed to support children under five and their parents during their crucial first few years, when concerns about health, childcare and parenting are in the forefront of every parent's mind."

To find out what childcare is available call the council's children's information service on 01438 737502 or 01923 471502, or Childcarelink on 0800 096 0296.

Visit www.hertschildrenscentres.org.uk for a list of all children's centres in Hertfordshire or view www.dcsf.gov.uk/everychildmatters