MAKING CONNECTIONS PLAYGROUP

Why is play so important?

Food grows bodies, PLAY GROWS MINDS!

Play is as important to a child’s cognitive development, as food is to their growing bodies. Just as we try to provide our families with a balance of food groups, we can also offer a balance of rich play experiences that stimulate intrigue, engage minds, promote play based learning and help children make connections.

The goal of this playgroup is to provide opportunities for children to play in and around nature, make sensory observations and discoveries, strengthen fine and gross motor skills and engage in creative and imaginative play. Through open-ended playthings we encourage children to navigate their own play journey, be inspired by stories, the natural world, simple playthings and their own curiosity.

Play is not just for the children. Parents and carers are encouraged to be guided by their child’s direction and support them to explore, experiment and make their own discoveries. These playgroups are also intended to be a valuable chance for you to connect with your child, learn about them, and help them learn. You will be able to observe their interests and abilities and be supported with ways to extend their play and learning. You will be able to offer similar play experiences at home that both engage your children and help equip them with many school ready skills. You can also have fun playing!

Play created with natural, recycled and everyday materials. Play does not mean toys. We offer a variety of playthings to explore different concepts, skills and ideas, all made using natural, recycled or everyday materials. We will show you how to maximise the potential of play and promote play-based learning with accessible, achievable and sustainable play ideas that you can replicate at home.

What does the Making Connections Playgroup entail?

A typical Making Connections Playgroup session will start with a story and introduction to the theme for the session. This could be learning about bees or bugs, mixing colours, studying sticks, building with boxes or even exploring different feelings. Sessions generally include:

Open-ended and natural playthings to explore
Sensory play opportunities
Pretend play prompts
Fine motor activities
Creative inspiration

Each child's experience will be unique - defined by what interests them and their individual skills.

PLAY to Be...

Empowering families to create playful experiences, make connections, learn and grow.

The Making Connections Playgroup is designed and led by Danielle - founder of PLAY to Be. Danielle is a qualified teacher, designer, parent and passionate play enthusiast. Feel free to get in touch to find out more ways PLAY to Be can support your play journey. Contact details below.

Prices and other need-to-know information:

FEES AND BOOKING

Casual rates: $20 per session. Please see the Events page for tickets.

Term pass available for an overall 15% discount (to attend one session per week).

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING

The activities are generally set up outside but may be inside the Discovery Centre on wet or windy days. Sessions may include play with water, ice or paint so please dress appropriately. Please ensure you wear closed in shoes, bring a hat, water bottle and morning tea.

FOOD AND DRINK

You are very welcome to pack morning tea to enjoy on the grass during or after playgroup. Our on-site coffee window, Twitchers, is open from 9.00am to 12.00pm for coffee, babyccinos and light snacks.

SUPERVISION

As the centre is in a natural environment and presents water safety hazards, please ensure that a parent or carer is present at all times during the session. Adult supervision is key to providing your child with a safe and fun learning environment, and adult engagement will help your child make the most of the session.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Please stay home if you or your child are feeling unwell.

If you’d like more information please contact Danielle at:

Danielle@playtobe.com.au or follow PLAY to Be on Instagram and Facebook

Making Connections Events List