Barnardo’s supporter and television presenter Melinda Messenger is urging parents across the country to avoid disappointment and register their toddlers this April in time for the Barnardo’s Big Toddle 2008 supported by Nick Jr.

Now in its twelfth year, the Barnardo’s Big Toddle continues to be the biggest, brightest, and best fundraising event for under 5’s. Since 1995, 1.5 million toddlers have registered for the sponsored half mile walks, helping to raise close to £7 million for the children’s charity’s local projects!

Close to 400,000 toddlers registered to Toddle last year, helping to raise over £1.4 million. This year Barnardo’s is hoping to raise a record £2.1 million to go directly towards helping some of the UK’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged young children and their families.

There are a few simple ways parents can get their toddlers Toddling:

• Join a local pre-school, playgroup or nursery organised event
• Take part in a Barnardo’s organised Toddle event – these take place across the UK throughout the summer months
• Organising their own Toddle with friends and family

Melinda Messenger says:

‘Whether you organise your own event or join a Barnardo’s Big Toddle, it’s always lots of fun, we like to make a day of it and take a picnic. The children love being involved and getting sponsored and I think it’s a great way for my kids to learn about children in the UK who are much less fortunate than them.”

Fitness and walking expert Joanna Hall says:

“A child is never too young to start enjoying movement. Getting involved with the Barnardo’s Big Toddle is a wonderful way to encourage your child to love to move, and learning to love to move is vital for health and well being right through their whole life.”

To find out how to take part you can visit the website www.bigtoddle.co.uk or call 0845 270 9900.