Supported playgroups

Weekly supported playgroup sessions run during school terms across various local venues and are facilitated by qualified and experienced staff.

Supported playgroups enhance everyday parenting opportunities and build positive interactions to improve children's learning and development through play. Facilitators can also offer an in-home program for those that are eligibile and may need further one-on-one support.

To enrol in a supported playgroup, families must meet at least 1 of these criteria:

  • a family member in the household has a health care card or equivalent
  • families with a member that identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
  • families looking after children in kinship care arrangements (out of home care)
  • families referred from Victorian Government Families, Fairness and Housing programs
  • families referred from or participating in enhanced MCH services.

Other playgroups

Playgroups are for babies, toddlers and preschool age children. They bring young children, parents, families and communities together in relaxed and fun settings. Parents and caregivers stay with their children at playgroup, giving them the opportunity to meet other families in the community.

Benefits of playgroups for parents include:

  • friendships
  • reduced isolation
  • learning parenting skills
  • feeling like they are part of their community
  • being able to share problems
  • reassurance about child behaviour and development
  • finding out about their community.

Benefits of playgroups for children include:

  • learning to play and socialise with other children
  • promoting early childhood learning and development
  • playing in a different environment with different resources.

To find an existing playgroup, go to Playgroup Victoria for a full listing of groups.

Contact us

For more information about enrolling in supported playgroups, or playgroups in general, call us on 9490 4222 option 4 or email at infomachs@banyule.vic.gov.au

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