YOUNGSTERS helped launch a celebration of childhood with a teddy bear's picnic yesterday.

The Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership also enlisted the help of Early Bird - the partnership's 7ft mascot - to mount a treasure hunt in Mowbray Park, Sunderland, marking the start of this month's National Childcare Month.

Sunderland's partnership, which was set up to develop childcare and early years services for children, parents and carers across Wearside, is using the national campaign to celebrate local developments, promote services and involve local organisations and families in activities.

It has also organised roadshows as part of another national campaign, Do Something You Love for a Living, which were also launched by Early Bird at Shiney Row library.

The roadshows will be touring the region throughout this month.

Ms Williams said: "Childcare benefits everyone because it plays a crucial role in a child's development and it helps parents to work or study.

"We are encouraging anyone who is interested in a career in childcare to come along to one of our roadshows to find out more."

For details of dates and venues, ring the partnership on 0191-553 5678.