Supported Playgroups

Funded by the Department of Social Services, our supported playgroups provide a welcoming and inclusive space where children can play, explore and learn, while parents and carers connect with others, share experiences and build confidence in their parenting.

Children can enjoy indoor and outdoor play, art and craft, stories, music and movement in a safe and friendly environment. Through play, children have opportunities to develop their social, physical and language skills, try new experiences and build confidence interacting with others.

For parents and carers, supported playgroups offer the chance to meet other families, build social connections and share the everyday ups and downs of parenting. They are also a great place to learn more about your child’s development and milestones, access parenting information and community resources, or simply talk through a question or concern with someone experienced.

Sessions are facilitated by qualified and experienced child and family case workers who provide guidance and support in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you’re a first-time or young parent, new to the area, feeling isolated, navigating challenges within your family, or have questions about your child’s development or behaviour, our team is here to support you.

From time to time, we also welcome guest professionals from early childhood, community health and safety services, giving families easy access to trusted information and connections to other local supports.

Most importantly, supported playgroups are about helping children and families thrive. We aim to strengthen parent-child relationships, build parenting confidence and help families develop connections within their local community. When the time is right, we can also support families to transition into community-based playgroups.

Come along, meet other families and discover a supportive place where you and your child can connect, learn and grow together.

For more information:
P: 1800 324 924
E: info@catholiccaredbb.org.au

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Supported Playgroup

Date: Tuesdays 27 Jan, 17 Feb, 10 Mar, 21 Apr, 19 May & 16 Jun
Time: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Location: Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health Service Bungee Bidgel Hornsby Kuringai Hospital 3-7 Derby Road Hornsby Building 14 – Outpatients Room 9
Fee: Free

This playgroup provides a relaxed and friendly environment for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander families and carers to bring their children to socialise and engage in culturally fun activities with other children.

Enjoy activities such as, craft, story time and rain making. Guest speakers and parenting experts join us to discuss a range of topics in a casual environment including child development, boundaries and routines, managing ‘big feelings’ and more. We also discuss self-care for Mum and Dad.

* Drop in anytime no booking required.

St Brendan’s Early Learning Centre, Lake Munmorah Banners

Artarmon Supported Playgroup

Date: Tuesdays
Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm
Location: 18 Broughton Road Artarmon
Fee: Free

Our Artarmon supported playgroup offers a relaxed and friendly environment where children can enjoy indoor and outdoor free play, art and craft activities, stories, music, and movement in a fun and safe space.

Parents and carers are supported to socialise, share experiences, access parenting advice and community resources, and learn more about their child’s development and milestones. These groups also provide valuable opportunities to build social connections within the local community. Sessions are facilitated by trained and experienced child and family case workers who provide guidance and support in a warm, inclusive setting.

* Bookings are essential. Places are limited, and registrations are reviewed based on individual needs and playgroup capacity.

MORE INFO & REGISTRATIONS

Berowra Supported Playgroup

Date: Fridays
Time: 10.00am – 11.30am
Location: St Mark’s Church
18 Berowra Waters Road Berowra
Fee: Free

Our Berowra supported playgroup offers a relaxed and friendly environment where children can enjoy indoor and outdoor free play, art and craft activities, stories, music, and movement in a fun and safe space.

Parents and carers are supported to socialise, share experiences, access parenting advice and community resources, and learn more about their child’s development and milestones. These groups also provide valuable opportunities to build social connections within the local community. Sessions are facilitated by trained and experienced child and family case workers who provide guidance and support in a warm, inclusive setting.

* Bookings are essential. Places are limited, and registrations are reviewed based on individual needs and playgroup capacity.

More info & registrations

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a supported playgroup?

Supported playgroups provide a structured and positive learning environment for parents and children (aged 0 – 5 years) to increase their skills and confidence, and to develop valuable social and family support networks. Supported playgroups usually meet once a week and are facilitated by a trained early childhood worker. The Playgroup Coordinator can also assist parents by providing parenting information and referrals to other health and community services.

How does a supported playgroup differ from a regular one?

Often community based playgroups do not have a trained early childhood worker present and may not be able to refer to relevant health and community services should a family need additional supports.

I am not Catholic, can I still attend?

Yes, our service is open to all.

Are the playgroups free?

Yes, they are. Call 1800 324 924 to secure your place.

Does a parent need to attend, or just the children?

You need to attend with your children.

How will a supported playgroup help with my child’s development?

Children under five are going through a stage of rapid brain and skill development. For optimum development, young children need a stimulating environment to play and learn. Playgroups offer babies, toddlers and young children a wide variety of early learning experiences and are a great way for your child(ren) to learn about the world, make friends and develop social skills. For children, playgroup:

Provides an environment for social interaction
Provides an opportunity for children to play and learn
Assists in language development and communication
Provides a space for children to participate in and enjoy new activities
Provides a stimulated environment where children can acquire new skills and learn
Provides access to a variety of toys and equipment
Provides a safe and happy place for children
Assists children to become ready for the formal learning environment
Provides an opportunity to attend excursions and events.

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