Young children will soon be the stars of their own books and online adventures thanks to an innovative new Swansea business.
Bobadeg, a new venture set up by Swansea mum-of-two Fiona McLaren, gives parents the chance to put children at the centre of their own learning experiences by creating personalised books, web-based games and activities that include the child’s photo and name.
The business means family members can upload a photo of a child to the Bobadeg website which will then be reproduced in a personalised book and integrated into a dedicated and password protected web portal created exclusively for the child.
The books, puzzles and games are aimed at helping young children develop core skills in communication, maths and information technology.
Fiona, who moved back to the Swansea area from London four years ago, initially approached Swansea Council’s Business Centre Swansea with her idea for advice.
Expert staff then pointed Fiona in the direction of sources of funding she could access to help with business start-up costs like marketing and website development.
Fiona, a former pupil of Bishop Gore Comprehensive School, said: “I really wanted to make the Bobadeg experience fun and engaging for both the parent and child. As a Mum myself, I know how much children love to see themselves in print and on the screen. This is why I devised a way to transport each child into Bobadeg’s colourful world where they become a pivotal character in their very own learning adventure.”
Business Centre Swansea is based on St Mary’s Square and offers comprehensive business support to small and medium size businesses in the Swansea Bay area.
A team of advisors is on hand to help with all aspects of business support to help existing businesses grow or develop ideas into real business ventures.
Examples of support include help in subjects like business plans, marketing and making the most of the internet.
During the past year the centre has helped 148 businesses start-up and has dealt with over 1,200 enquiries.
Fiona has praised centre staff and is determined to make her business as locally orientated as possible.
She said: “All Bobadeg products and services have been brought to life by highly skilled and talented Welsh illustrators, web developers and printers. Even the name Bobadeg comes from the Welsh phrase ‘bob adeg’ which means ‘at all times’.
“We truly believe that every moment presents a learning opportunity for an early years child and we want to help parents tap into these moments and make them fun.
“I’d urge anyone looking to start a business to get in touch with Business Centre Swansea because the advice is first class and the staff are extremely friendly and helpful.”
Steve Marshall, Swansea Council’s Business Development Manager, said: “These are difficult economic times but it’s enormously satisfying to help people like Fiona lay the foundations for their business dreams.
“Ventures like Bobadeg show that entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking in Swansea and we’ll always be on hand to assist people in getting their ideas off the ground.”
Have a look at www.businesscentreswansea.com for more information about Business Centre Swansea or call 01792 545050.
Take a peek at www.bobadeg.com for more information about Bobadeg or call Fiona on 07767 635250.
