Supported Playgroups Banner

Funded by the Department of Social Services, our supported playgroups help children to explore and learn while providing a place for parents and carers to socialise and discuss their children’s development.

Assisted by our Family Case Workers these groups provide additional support to individual families who might be facing various life challenges. Throughout the year our groups will have visitors from early childhood nurses, child dentists, road safety speakers and more. Families are welcome to stay engaged in our playgroup for 12 months with individual support needs considered. Last year we launched another supported playgroup specifically for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander families which is run weekly in Waitara. We’d love to see you there!

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

ATSI playgroup

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Supported Playgroup

Date: Thursdays
Time: 10.00am – 11.30am
Location: Kate’s Place
29 Yardley Avenue Waitara
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.

* Bookings essential.

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

A relaxed and friendly environment for families and carers to bring their children to enjoy free play outside, art and craft, music time and stories in a fun and safe area.

This supported environment enables parents and carers to socialise and access parenting resources, community supports and be able to discuss and learn about their child’s development and milestones. These sessions are run by trained and experienced child and family case workers.

* Bookings essential.

Berowra Supported Playgroup

Berowra Supported Playgroup

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

A relaxed and friendly environment for families and carers to bring their children to enjoy free play outside, art and craft, music time and stories in a fun and safe area. 

This supported environment enables parents and carers to socialise and access parenting resources, community supports and be able to discuss and learn about their child’s development and milestones. These sessions are run by trained and experienced child and family case workers.

* Bookings essential.

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.

latest news on parenting

Connecting at our Aboriginal playgroup

CatholicCare's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Supported Playgroup is thriving. Not only are we connecting Aboriginal children and families with support services, but we also are giving kids a chance to meet and connect with other kids from their culture. That social connection is so important.

Read More

Healthier, happier & together under one roof

Despite having all the right intentions, he found it overwhelming and almost impossible to meet the needs of his children, particularly those with significant physical and intellectual disabilities. 

Read More

Everything you need to know about supported playgroups

Are your little ones climbing the walls at home? Have you ever thought about attending a playgroup but not sure what to expect? Perhaps, you’ve heard the term, ‘supported playgroup’ and wondering what that’s all about.

Read More

Families to benefit as the NSW Government reveals the locations of 100 new preschools

Thousands of families across NSW will benefit from expanded access to early childhood education as the NSW Government unveils the locations for 100 new public preschools.

Read More
Close