Real stories from local families about connection, confidence, and the joy of learning through music & play.
A Lifeline for Local Families
I moved into the area during lockdown and then became a new parent. At a time when local connections and support were especially needed, Tots N Tunes proved to be essential. They provided not only a safe and engaging environment for my children but also a much-needed opportunity for me to connect with other parents in the community. Over the years, both of my children — now aged 4 and 2 — have benefited greatly from attending these sessions. The groups have helped them develop important early social skills and provided a familiar, welcoming space in which they could grow and thrive.
— H., mother of B. and L.
Growth Through Music and Play
We’ve been attending Tots N Tunes for over 10 months, and it’s been a wonderful experience. A. was diagnosed with infantile spasm (epilepsy) at 6 months old, and initially she didn’t engage with others. But over time, we’ve seen huge improvements in her coordination, social skills, and confidence. She especially loves the singing classes. It’s heartwarming to see her clapping along, jumping, and interacting with other children. Tots N Tunes team are so welcoming and genuinely connect with the little ones. And the fact that these classes are free? That’s a real blessing for families like ours.
— A., mother of A.
Exceptional Care and Development at Tots N Tunes
It is with immense gratitude that I endorse Tots N Tunes, and the outstanding work carried out by Dana and his entire team. My son, T.J.O., and I have attended regularly since 2023. From the very beginning, we were welcomed into a warm, inclusive, and exceptionally well-organised environment. Tots N Tunes team create a nurturing space where children thrive. Their commitment extends to the whole family — The staff are always approachable, offering valuable developmental resources and fostering a true sense of community. A particular highlight was the brilliantly organised trip to Colchester Zoo, which was a memorable and enriching experience for us. The growth in my son’s confidence, curiosity, and social skills speaks volumes about the quality of care he receives.
— O.E.O., father of T.J.O.
A Wonderful Experience for Our Little One!
As parents of a curious and energetic 2-year-old, we’re always looking for fun and educational activities that can engage our child’s growing mind. Tots N Tunes in the library has been an absolute delight. From the moment we walked in, the space was warm, inviting, and filled with age-appropriate activities. Each session blends play with learning in such a natural, enjoyable way. Our little one especially loves the interactive storytimes — it’s amazing to see how much they’ve learned without even realising it! What really stands out is the enthusiasm and patience of the Tots N Tunes staff. They create a supportive environment that makes both parents and children feel welcome. These groups have truly become a special place for our family, and we’re so grateful for these sessions. Highly recommend them to any parent looking to foster a love of learning in their young child!
— P.R., mother of G.
A Weekly Tradition We Cherish
We’ve lived in Barking for over two years, and ever since discovering Tots N Tunes, it has been a staple in our weekly routine. The staff are truly the heart of the group — always welcoming, positive, and engaging. My son absolutely loves coming each week to sing, dance, and play. These sessions aren’t just fun — they build confidence and help our children grow. We are so grateful for the vibrant, musical environment they have created. It’s not just a class — it’s a community.
— V.A., mother of M.
An Oasis of Joy and Inclusion
Tots N Tunes in Barking Library is a welcoming oasis of music and fun for preschoolers and their families. Dana leads each session with singing, actions, sign language, and songs from various cultures. My PMLD student especially loves going underneath the parachute with her mum! These sessions are a lifeline — bringing joy, smiles, and a deep sense of community to Barking. The confidence my student has gained since attending has been incredible.
— T.W., E., and V.
Building a Community One Song at a Time
I’ve been attending Tots N Tunes events for 3 years, ever since moving to the area and having our first son, K. I was searching for community — and found it here. These free events bring parents together and always surprise us with new, themed activities aligned with the seasons. My son immediately engaged with the singing and dancing, and now we attend every week without fail. Dana — who runs the show (and even plays Santa when needed!) — works incredibly hard. It’s inspiring to see how much joy he brings to so many families, and it’s great to see he now has a team around him helping to grow the impact even further. Tots N Tunes is a real community treasure!
— C., father of K.
From Isolation to Inclusion
When we moved to Barking, I was still on maternity leave and didn’t know anyone locally. The children’s centres were closed, and I felt isolated — until I found Tots N Tunes at the library. These sessions gave us a reason to get out and connect with others. The staff are brilliant — they know how to capture the children’s attention, and I’ve seen my daughter’s confidence grow with each visit. She often comes home and sings the hello song to her teddy bears!
— K., mother of N.
