Playgroup Australia

Curious about what playgroups are all about? Playgroups are a fantastic way for young children (from birth to school age) and their parents or caregivers to meet up regularly, play, and socialise. They're a vital part of local communities, helping everyone feel connected and supported socially, emotionally, and culturally. There are two main types of playgroups: parent-led and service-led. Parent-led playgroups are organised by the families themselves, while service-led playgroups are run by organisations with paid staff. Playgroups can also be tailored to specific groups (like Indigenous or intergenerational playgroups) and feature various activities (like outdoor play or language learning). Want to learn more about the amazing benefits of playgroups and how you can get involved? Check out our website for all the details! https://lnkd.in/gJzEcebC #Playgroup #Parenthood #AustralianFamilies

There's something magical about watching little ones form their first friendships... sharing toys (sometimes 🤭), giggling over nothing, and learning side by side. But playgroup isn't just for kids, parents find their best friends too! If you are new to the area, don't have many friends with children, or just need a space where people "get it", playgroup is the place to be. Because let's be honest, parenting is easier and way more fun when you have a support crew by your side. [Image description: A graphic with two cartoon owls sitting on a branch, each wearing a small bow. The text reads, "Your child’s first best friend might just be at playgroup waiting to meet them!" Colourful circles decorate the background.] #playgroup #parenthood #childhood

Parenting doesn’t come with instructions. Some days feel messy, unpredictable, and impossible to get just right... but in the end, it all works out. #playgroup #parenting #raisingchildren [image description: A photo of a caregiver and a child walking through a forest, surrounded by colourful circle graphics. The text reads: "Raising kids is like folding a fitted sheet... Nobody really knows how, but we do our best!"]

We love intergenerational connections ❤️ This heartwarming initiative was started by local mum Megan Sutton after the loss of her own grandmother. Now, babies, toddlers, parents, and the wonderful women of the Country Women's Association (CWA) come together to share stories, laughter, and connection, proving that playgroups can bring joy to every generation. #playgroup #countrywomensassociation #connection https://ab.co/4ieR5Xb

National Playgroup Week (17th–23rd March 2025) is a time to celebrate everything that makes playgroups special - the people, the connections, and the joy of learning through play! This week, we’re shine a spotlight on playgroups by: 💛 Thanking our incredible volunteers and families for their dedication to fun, learning, and support. 🌏 Making playgroups more visible in communities across Australia. 🎉 Encouraging more families to join in and experience the magic of playgroups. 👏 Celebrating the hard work of playgroup staff who make it all possible. Playgroups bring people together - so let’s spread the word and make this the biggest Playgroup Week yet! What do you love most about playgroup? 💬 #playgroup #celebration [Image description: A colourful graphic with the heading "What Playgroup Week is all about" and the dates "17th–23rd March 2025." Four speech bubbles highlight key themes: thanking the playgroup community, bringing families together, spreading playgroup awareness, and celebrating achievements. A playful kangaroo illustration is at the bottom. Hashtag: #NationalPlaygroupWeek.]

Becoming a parent can change your friendships... Some may grow stronger, while others naturally fade. Staying connected takes effort, but simple things like planning ahead, choosing parent-friendly catch-ups and keeping conversations beyond nappies and nap schedules can help. Making new friends is just as important, and joining local parents groups, attending events, or event an online community can help you find your people. Playgroups are a great way to meet other parents who get it - because raising kids is easier (and more fun) when you have support. (Inspired by Raising Children Network article: "Parents: How to make new friends and keep old ones") #playgroup #friendship #parenthood

National Playgroup Week is coming! 🎉❤️ From 17th-23rd of March, we're celebrating the power of playgroups and the incredible impact they have on children, families, and communities. Playgroups bring people together - helping little ones learn through play, fostering friendships, and creating a supportive space for families. There will be celebrations happening all over the country, and we'd love for you to be part of it! Here's how you can get involved... 🎈 Organise a National Playgroup Week party at your local playgroup. 📍 Check in with your State or Territory Playgroup Organisation to see what’s happening near you. 📸 Share your playgroup fun with us on Facebook or Instagram using #NationalPlaygroupWeek and tagging us We look forward to celebrating with you all! #playgroup #playgroupweek #celebration Playgroup NSW Playgroup WA Playgroup Victoria Playgroup Tasmania Inc Playgroup SA Play Matters Australia

When we think of playgroups, we often picture mums and grandparents, but playgroups are for dads too! Fatherhood is an incredible journey, but it can also feel isolating, especially for dads in rural and remote areas. Unlike mums, who often find support networks through maternal health services or parenting groups, many dads struggle to find spaces where they can connect and share experiences. That's where playgroups come in...  ✅ A chance to meet other dads ✅ Support through the ups and downs ✅ A fun and engaging way to connect with their child ✅ A safe space to ask questions If you’re a dad or carer looking for a way to meet other parents and spend quality time with your little one, why not find a playgroup near you! #playgroup #fathers #parenting

Grandparents aren’t just a cherished part of family life, they play a vital role in children's emotional and social development. Research shows that strong grandparent-grandchild relationships can lead to fewer emotional and behavioural challenges for kids (Mueller & Elder, 2003). Plus, when grandparents are involved, parents report higher satisfaction and lower stress (Reim et al., 2023). It really does take a village! A recent Psychology Today article explores the idea of paid grandparent leave, recognising the vital support they provide to families. Read more here: https://bit.ly/3WVqVQR That’s why we love seeing the impact of intergenerational playgroups, they bring families together, creating a space for grandparents, parents, and children to connect, share stories, and play. #grandparents #childhooddevelopment #familysupport [Image description: A photo of a grandparent with glasses and short grey hair sitting at a table, engaging with a young child in a high chair who is feeding them a blueberry. A plate with more blueberries is on the tray. The background has a window with white curtains. Overlapping the image are colourful circles. A large semi-transparent green circle contains white text: "Grandparents aren’t just a cherished part of family life, they play a vital role in children's emotional and social development."]

Have you ever thought about starting your own playgroup? 🤔 Playgroups bring families together, crating a space for little ones to play, learn, and grow - while also providing a place for parents and carers to connect, share experiences, and build friendships. Starting a playgroup is easier than you think! Whether you're gathering a few friends or looking to build something new in your community, there’s plenty of support available. Visit your state’s playgroup website to find all the resources and guidance you need to get started. The playgroup community is here to help! 🙌❤️ Playgroup Victoria Playgroup NSW Playgroup Tasmania Inc Play Matters Australia Playgroup ACT Playgroup SA [Image description: A purple background with a white speech bubble containing the text: "Thinking about starting your own playgroup?". Below the speech bubble, two cartoon koalas (an adult and a baby) stand looking up at it. The baby koala is holding a rattle, while the adult koala has a thoughtful expression.]