How a Cup of Tea Can Build a Village
James asks his mum Emily everyday to go to playgroup, asking and begging to go ‘today please mummy?’
Keen to see their friends, Emily and James both look forward to seeing all of their friends every Wednesday.
It takes a village to raise kids, yet statistically more and more mums are isolated and lonely than ever before. The availability of community events like Playgroup provide a midweek connection point for people to gather and connect. A place where they can get a free cuppa, and find their local village.
Sophie, a mum from the community brings her five children every week. They arrive riding their bikes from nearby, keen to participate in all the fun of Playgroup.
Each week as Wednesday arrives, the church opens its doors to greet all the smiling faces and busy young minds to come and enjoy Playgroup at iSee Brisbane West.
One Wednesday, 1 year old Eve was throwing some puzzle pieces across the room. Her mum was a little embarrassed and Sarah quickly reassured her that it was developmentally appropriate. They then had a conversation about how their minds grow and learn. Together they brainstormed some ideas for how Eve might be able to have throwing activities at home with soft balls or toys into buckets to help Eve learn about projection and gravity. Eve’s mother was relieved that her little one wasn’t ‘naughty’ and left Playgroup that Wednesday without the shame, and feeling more empowered as a mother.
“Thank you Sarah, for sharing your wisdom of play and development”, said Laura, mother of 1yo Eve.
Whether they are learning about Australia, farms, bugs or construction, the little boys and girls eagerly start to explore all of the workshop stations full of activities. A carefully designed program designed to reach and teach little minds seems to be exactly what mums in this community are looking for. With a unique theme every week , it is always exciting to see what might be happening at Playgroup each Wednesday.
“Not only are the activities a lot of fun, but it is a great chance to connect with other kids and their parents,” said Georgia, mother of 4yo Luke.
“Story time and song time are a real highlight,” said Emily, mother of 3yo James.
Playgroup at Brisbane West is carefully curated with a range of educational and fun activities to help engage little minds and busy hands with practical creative activities and challenges. Sarah has a background in Education and Childcare and prepares something unique and fun for the kids to engage with each week.
“Playgroup is inspiring me with ideas to play better at home”, said Lisa, mother of 1yo Luke.
Written By: Sarah Howell
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