Salvation Army’s free toddler group brings community outdoors

Every Wednesday at noon this summer, laughter and creativity fill a once-overlooked quad in Portsmouth as toddlers and parents gather for Outside With Toddlers (OWT)—a grassroots initiative led by The Salvation Army Portsmouth Citadel. 

The project began when church members Chris Woodage and Major Beth Maddern, an Associate Officer, were conducting street outreach behind the citadel. They discovered a neglected space between three large blocks of flats that had been transformed by Portsmouth City Council into a new green park. Recognising a God-given opportunity, the church and charity formed a weekly outreach team throughout August to build relationships through nature-based play. 

Beth said, “This is about connection: a free, simple way for families to meet neighbours and relax outdoors together. Inclusion is key. With over 60 diverse families from various backgrounds and faiths, we’re open about our identity through prayer and story, but our main goal is building trust—not just providing entertainment.” 

Operating under the ethos “let nature nurture the little ones,” each session explores a theme—from “small creatures” to “space”—through crafts, parachute games, and gentle Bible storytelling. A recent highlight featured a dad bringing his pet snakes and tortoise to the animal-themed morning. The programme already brings together 16 children and their carers weekly.  

Beth said, “The best moment was seeing children waiting for us as if we were bringing a bit of joy to their week. After the first session, parents told us, ‘Don’t take the banner down—we’ll guard it. This is our thing.’” 

Weather permitting, there are plans to expand OWT to other local courtyards during future school holidays. The outdoor setting is intentionally non-threatening, helping relationships grow organically among families who might find stepping into a church building daunting. 

The Salvation Army Portsmouth Citadel also supports the community through The Haven Nursery (OFSTED-registered, for ages 3 months–4 years) and an Employment Service offering CV help and job-ready support. For more information about the Salvation Army in Portsmouth visit their website Portsmouth Citadel | The Salvation Army.