The aims of Playtimes are to enhance the development and education of children under statutory school age by encouraging parents to understand and provide for the needs of their children through community groups, and to enhance the education and provide for the recreation of children of school age by making facilities and services available to them during out of school hours and school holidays, and by: 
(a) offering appropriate play, education and care facilities, family learning and extended hours groups, together with the right of parents to take responsibility for and to become involved in the activities of such groups, ensuring that such groups offer opportunities for all children whatever their race, culture, religion, means or ability;
(b) encouraging the study of the needs of such children and their families and promoting public interest in and recognition of such needs in the local areas;
(c) instigating and adhering to and furthering the aims and objects of the Pre-school Learning Alliance.