Playgroups

Playgroups promote early learning, social development, and emotional wellbeing, helping children gain confidence and prepare for kindergarten and school.

Attending playgroup is a great way to build routine and connect with others in your community. Through play, children learn to share, take turns, follow routines, and develop early literacy and numeracy skills. Activities such as music, movement, sensory play, outdoor exploration, and creative projects nurture physical, emotional, and cognitive development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning.

Playgroups also provide valuable support for parents and carers, offering a space to share experiences, reduce isolation, and strengthen community connections.

Community Playgroups are welcoming, play-based groups for families with children aged 0–5 years. They may be parent-led or facilitated by a trained professional.

Many Community Playgroups are free, while others may request a small donation or ongoing fee. Please check with the provider for details.

What to expect:

• A 1.5 to 2 hour session each week
• Fun and engaging activities for young children
• A friendly space to meet other families
• Opportunities to share parenting experiences
• Support for your child's social and learning development

Supported Playgroups are free and open to all families with children aged 0–5 years. They are led by Aurora, our Supported Playgroup Facilitator; a council staff member trained in early childhood education and parenting support.

What to expect:

• A 1.5 to 2 hour session each week (during school terms)
• Play-based activities that support early learning and development
• Morning tea for children and adults
• A welcoming and inclusive environment
• Opportunities to connect with local services and other families
• Practical tips and support for parenting

Cost: Free

How to join:

• Drop in anytime
• Contact the Supported Playgroup Facilitator at 0436 804 583 or email a.ricci@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
• If attending regularly, complete the simple online registration form or,
  fill out the Supported Playgroup referral form(PDF, 67KB) and email to a.ricci@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
• To enrol fill out the Supported Playgroup enrolment form(PDF, 67KB) and email to a.ricci@mountalexander.vic.gov.au

Eligible families can receive free in-home coaching, delivered by Aurora, the Mount Alexander Supported Playgroup Facilitator. This program offers extra parenting support and guidance for child development.

What’s involved:

• Home visits or sessions in another comfortable local space
• Hands-on ideas and practical guidance using Smalltalk strategies
• Support to build confidence and improve parent-child interactions

Cost: Free

How to join:

• Families can self-refer or be referred by a professional
• Fill out the online registration form to apply or,
  email the Playgroup referral form(PDF, 67KB) to our Supported Playgroup Facilitator, Aurora Ricci at a.ricci@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.