Playgroup is an informal session where mums, dads, grand parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together in a relaxed environment.

Playgroups are set up and run by parents and caregivers, with children choosing from a range of activities set up to meet their varying needs.

Activities at playgroup are either free or low cost, and may include:

• Music and singing
• Imaginative play
• Outdoor and free play
• Art and craft activities
• Outings.

In a playgroup, parents and caregivers stay to interact with the other adults & to play with the children.

Playgroup can be held anywhere that is safe for children and where groups of people can meet – community and neighbourhood centres, health clinics, women’s centres, preschools and kindergartens, church halls and even in someone’s house.

No child is too young for playgroup. All children from 0-5 years, including babies, love new experiences and benefit from developing sensory, social and communication skills through activities at playgroup.

Children like playgroup because they can:

• Participate in new experiences
• Develop and increase their social skills
• Learn sharing, co-operation and simple routines
• Interact with other adults and children in a safe environment
• Enjoy learning more about their world

Adults also benefit from playgroup – a time to talk, make friends and share experiences, while children learn through their play experiences.

Adults like playgroup because they can:

• Meet other local families and develop new friendships
• Relax and talk in a friendly environment
• Share experiences and ideas
• Play with children and nurture a spirit of co-operation
• Take up opportunities for personal development

There are playgroups all over New Zealand: