Mount Alexander Shire Council, Media Release, 12 March 2021

Mount Alexander Shire Council is celebrating National Playgroup Week (24-30 March) by hosting a pop up playgroup in Victory Park on Friday 26 March.

Families with children aged 0-5 years are invited to come along and see what playgroup is all about. They can also try a craft activity, listen to a story, learn a new song and connect with other families.

“Playgroups are so beneficial to the whole family,” said Libby Page, Supported Playgroup facilitator, Mount Alexander Shire Council.

“They nurture children’s social skills and overall development while providing an important opportunity for parents and caregivers to share experiences and feel supported,” said Ms Page.

“Caring for young children can be exhausting and sometimes isolating. A weekly visit to playgroup can help parents feel like a valuable member of the village and local community.”

The pop up playgroup will be held from 10.00am to 12noon on Friday 26 March at Victory Park in Castlemaine.

There are a range of playgroups on offer throughout the shire, including community playgroups, facilitated playgroups and the Supported Playgroup program.

A report commissioned by Playgroup Australia found that children who go to playgroup are more likely to start school ready to continue their learning and development. They are also more than 1.7 times more likely to avoid being developmentally vulnerable.

Playgroup allows children the freedom to explore and learn through play and complements the education children gain through childcare or kindergarten.

“Playgroup has been a treasured and prioritised activity in my weekly calendar for the past few years. I see huge value in seeing the local children playing together and creating relationships,” said one local playgroup parent.

“I also absolutely love having a cuppa and a chat with the other parents. Aside from being lovely to connect with other parents it’s also great sharing experiences and knowing that you’re not alone with your parenting worries,” she said.

Council also delivers the Supported Playgroup Program, which is funded by the Victorian State Government. Supported Playgroups give families the opportunity to develop parenting skills and confidence to support their child’s wellbeing and development.

For more information about playgroups in Mount Alexander Shire or the Support Playgroup Program visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Playgroups or contact Libby Page, Council’s Supported Playgroup Facilitator, on 5471 1700.