It's time for the big toddle!

For the first time ever, the children's charity is introducing a fancy dress theme to its flagship event – swashbuckling pirates!

The Big Toddle is a short sponsored walk for under 5's to raise funds for Barnardo's Early Years work including services for children with physical and learning disabilities, autism and behavioural problems.

There will be two organised Toddles 2010 events in Belfast, at Belfast Zoo on 2 June and at Stormont Park on 8 June, but groups are welcome to organise their own Toddle. Last year over 100 nurseries and toddler groups across Northern Ireland including Magilligan Community Playgroup and McCallion in Limavady held their own Toddles raising a combined grand total of 36,000.

Here 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 . Or organise their own Toddle with friends and family - at a park or even in their own garden!

Barnardo's ambassador and television presenter Melinda Messenger said: "My children have loved taking part in the Barnardo's Big Toddle over the years. It's always a fun day out with treasure hunts and entertainment and it's for such a great cause. All the children come away with their medals, full of pride and most importantly with an understanding of the children they have been raising money for. It is so simple to arrange your own Toddle if you can't make it to one of the organised events - and it's a great excuse for all the mums to meet up for some sunshine and gossip! In the current economic climate the families and children Barnardo's help particularly need your support, so please join in the Big Toddle 2010."

Barnardo's ambassador and actress Nina Wadia said: "I've toddled with my children a number of times and I've been lucky enough to see first-hand the difference Toddle money makes. Barnardo's has 270 projects throughout the UK that work with under 5s, so as well as having fun, I hope you'll use this opportunity to raise sponsorship and help Barnardo's continue its crucial work."

To find out how to take part you can visit the website www.bigtoddle.co.uk or call Barnardo's NI Toddle co-ordinator Bahara Norton on: 028 9067 2366.