Toddlers Feature
why s n o s a re K! C O R s up playgro JOIN D N A COME IDS! K L O O THE C
Being the parent of a small child can be challenging – to say the least! Trying to educate, entertain, emote and engage with small children day in, day out, can prove exhausting and at times overwhelming. With the rise in reported cases of post-natal depression and anxiety comes an acknowledgement that parents need to expand their support networks and make real connections with their communities. That’s where playgroups come into the picture! Playgroups have huge benefits for parents as well as children. They’re a positive, innovative way to confront the challenges of parenting and isolation with positivity, exciting and engaging play and the opportunity to make new friendships. Here are five fun reasons why you should join a local playgroup!
1 SUPPORT FOR PARENTS Not only will you have the opportunity to get out of your house and talk to other adults, you’ll also be provided resources to learn new things. Many offer professional advice and support on a range of topics at each playgroup meeting. Lactation and feeding support, sleep strategies, dental health, first aid and exercise physiology are all on the table for discussion as parents meet with like-minded individuals to discuss their current concerns.
2 HEALTHY EARLY LEARNING EXPERIENCES Be gone, ABC For Kids! Joining a local playgroup means that your child will be exposed to a wide variety of stimulating learning experiences. This exposure will assist in the cognitive and skill development that is paired with this time of growth and change.
3 HANDS-ON LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT Fine-motor skills, coordination, memory, cause and effect – these are all crucial skills that can be enhanced by allowing your child to attend
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Your Local Families Magazine October/November 2017
a playgroup. Mastering these skills at a young age will hold your child in good stead for their transitions into kindergarten, prep and beyond! Get them off to a flying start!
4 PLAY-BASED LEARNING EXPERIENCES Offering play-based learning experiences allows your child to tap into resources like creativity, resilience and independence. Unstructured play, like what occurs in a playgroup, offers children the freedom to explore and take healthy risks in a secure and safe environment.
5 A CHANCE TO CONNECT Parenting can often be a lonely journey. Many find it intimidating and isolating and the days can often blur into each other. Having a regular, standing playgroup appointment in the diary can be a port in the storm for parents who are otherwise at sea. You’ll be supported by people who know exactly what you’re going through because they’re living it too!
Sesame Lane’s Happy Healthy Playgroup Sesame Lane Kippa Ring has launched a free weekly playgroup for local families. They’ve partnered with Embrace Life (North Lakes) to offer a range of family health services. Red Music also attend on the first Tuesday of each month to allow children early participation in the performing arts. You can find out more by visiting them online at www.sesamelane.com. au/playgroup
What are you waiting for? Come on, it’s time to play!