Playgroup purpose ‘not just about children’

National playgroup week has provided an opportunity for Playgroup WA to promote the benefits of playgroup participation.

Karratha Community House manager Kelly Dines said while playgroups were a great way for young children to interact socially, playgroup participation was not just about the children.

“They are also about supporting parents and caregivers and connecting them to the community to help break down the barriers of social isolation,” she said.

As one of the largest regional playgroup organisations, Karratha Community House holds 28 playgroups a week in the only purpose-built playgroup facility in the State.

Karratha Community House playgroup co-ordinator Kristen Scott said they were fortunate to have the facility and to be able to offer various family programs, thanks to generous sponsorships from the community.

“Having the facility and receiving sponsorship has enabled us to cater to more families, which is important when many families are so far away from their networks,” she said.

Playgroup WA chief executive David Zarb said in its 41st year, the organisation wanted more parents of disabled children to participate in playgroups.

“Attending playgroup is great for any family because of the socialisation and normalisation aspects, but it’s even more important for the families with special needs children,” he said.

Aligned with this vision, Karratha Community House has expanded its playgroups to include several specialist groups, including the Luke Adams Foundation group for young indigenous mothers, the Mulla Mulla supported playgroup for mothers who need extra support or are struggling with post-natal depression, and the Butterfly Effects playgroup that caters for children with special needs.

Anyone wishing to start a playgroup or join one can do so by emailing Kristen on playgroups@karrathacommunityhouse.org.au.