Playgroup Australia launches National Playgroup Week

This week is National Playgroup Week, and Playgroup Australia, in partnership with state and territory playgroup organisations (STOs), is encouraging families with children from birth to five years to visit their local playgroup to discover what the playgroup community offers.

Playgroup members are encouraged to ‘bring a friend’ to community events or to their local playgroup to share the playgroup experience, in a week devoted to connecting and learning through play. Families and family day care providers  are invited to take part in free, family fun events held at major destinations and in local community groups both indoors and outdoors across Australia.

Every playgroup offers different supportive environments, with some launched to provide support to children who are not meeting developmental milestones, and others located at early childhood centres to aid with the transition of children into an early childhood education and care setting.

CEO of Playgroup Australia Fiona May said “Playgroup is vital to helping little ones learn and develop. It’s an informal space where mums, dads, grandparents, caregivers, children and babies come together in a relaxed environment. It complements childcare by promoting parent-to-parent support networks, and encourages parent-to-child bonding through play.

“Currently, more than 110,000 families meet for weekly playgroups in halls, neighbourhood centres, churches, private homes and parks throughout the week and on weekends. Playgroups are where friendships are made, toys and ideas shared, and where children’s social and physical development is supported,” Ms May said. “Families from all different backgrounds and walks of life go to playgroup.”

Find out what’s planned for National Playgroup Week at www.playgroupaustralia.com.au or call 1800 171 882.