Nearest Playgroup
To find your nearest Playgroup or to start a new playgroup, call 1800 171 882 or select your state below.
Reading
- Reading children's books aloud can help calm a fussing baby, or entertain a quiet one
Playgroup is an informal session where mums, dads, grand parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together in a relaxed environment.
Playgroups are set up and run by parents and caregivers, with children choosing from a range of activities set up to meet their varying needs. Activities at playgroup are either free or low cost, and may include:
- Music and singing
- Imaginative play
- Outdoor and free play
- Art and craft activities
- Outings.
Playgroup can be held anywhere that is safe for children and where groups of people can meet - community and neighbourhood centres, health clinics, women's centres, preschools and kindergartens, church halls and even in someone's house.
In a playgroup, parents and caregivers stay to interact with the other adults; and to play with the children.
No child is too young for playgroup. All children from 0-5 years, including babies, love new experiences and benefit from developing sensory, social and communication skills through activities at playgroup.
Children like playgroup because they can:
- Participate in new experiences
- Develop and increase their social skills
- Learn sharing, co-operation and simple routines
- Interact with other adults and children in a safe environment
- Enjoy learning more about their world
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Adults also benefit from playgroup - a time to talk, make friends and share experiences, while children learn through their play experiences.
Adults like playgroup because they can:
- Meet other local families and develop new friendships
- Relax and talk in a friendly environment
- Share experiences and ideas
- Play with children and nurture a spirit of co-operation
- Take up opportunities for personal development
Play & why we all need it! - Essence, magazine of the Australian Breastfeeding Association, May 2008
Play to Learn - Manchester Unity "U" Magazine, Oct 2007
There is a Playgroup Association in every State and Territory to help you:
- Find a local playgroup which suits your needs
- Set up a new playgroup
If you would like to START a new playgroup in your area or JOIN an existing playgroup, call your Playgroup Association on 1800 171 882 (free call).
