TRY SOMETHING

Why trying something new, like playgroup, can be the best thing you can do.

Sometimes, the hardest part is beginning. What awaits on the other side of anything new is tinged with unknowns. Yet, with any risk, we also welcome a chance at reward. Getting out the door and gaining the momentum to get from A to B is the first leap. Having small children in tow can create even more barriers to forward motion - however, small steps can often lead to big change over time and one thing we think well worth your while is a trip to playgroup.

Playgroup is full of possibilities - possibilities for friendship, for support, for laughter, for fun, for commiseration during the challenging times and celebration during the milestones.

The profound thing about playgroup is often the consistency that is brings. Playgroup is something to look forward to. Something to provide structure. Something to create a routine, yet without the pressure of having to turn up and have anything prepared. Most of all, playgroup is full of play- it’s playful, bringing joy to both child and parent alike.

“It’s always worth it and we absolutely missed it during the ‘holiday’ break,” said Kaye, a Melbourne mother who relishes attending a local nature playgroup.

“A weekly event, that is pre-organised and at the same time, allows me to structure my week without added stress or cognitive load. I just need to get there.”

“It can be difficult to get there some mornings, but when you’re welcomed with smiling faces each week, you tend to leave whatever morning stress there was behind.”

For both Kaye and her child, it was an outing each week, in beautiful surrounds. Together they connected, immersed in the distinct Melbourne seasons, the stories, the environment. They connected with the other families attending and had a shared experience in the gardens. In harmony, they disconnected- from chores, the phone, work, distractions, city noise.

“From a social perspective, it means I can feel good about the opportunity I’ve given my child to connect with other kids and learn in a really lovely outside environment. Mum guilt is real, and to be able to say, ‘look at the experiences you’re giving him!’, even if playgroup is the one thing we get to that week, it is super important. He adores it also.”

Sheridan, mother to Maisie, has felt the personal benefits of attending a community playgroup.

“As a sufferer of chronic fatigue and anxiety, I often struggle with committing to trying new things, going new places, and meeting new people. Some days it can be quite challenging to leave the house with a toddler, but I can confirm that attending playgroup and getting involved within our community has been such a positive experience for us. Take the leap!”

That leap while daunting can also break a cycle and spark new interests.

For many families, playgroup has greatly aided in breaking down the walls of isolation. Going to playgroup and volunteering within their community gives people a sense of purpose outside of their homes and day-today lives.

Sheridan works as the Membership Experience Officer at the peak body for playgroups in Victoria. She is in contact with both worlds, as a parent and assisting parents. She is in direct contact with families each week on the phone.

When speaking with families who attend playgroup there is often a consistent message, and that is the positive impact playgroup has on not only the children, but for the parent's and carers too! (A common misconception is that playgroup is just for kids).