Social space for children and adults at playgroup

PLENTY of play, healthy snacks, lots of conversation and walks outdoors.

Alexis Breen always has lots planned to cater to everyone at the Dereel Playgroup on Mondays from 9.30am until 11.30am.

Based at the Dereel Community Centre, Ms Breen started the meetings last term after the Enfield Playgroup stopped operating.

“I’ve got two little ones and there wasn’t a playgroup in Dereel, so I thought we’d get one started,” she said.

“When I was having my seven-month-old, I heard of so many people in the area that had little ones we’d never met, so I felt like I was alone but there’s lots and lots of people in the area, so I thought, let’s see if we can meet some of them.”

With a playground outside the hall and a trail nearby, Ms Breen can offer walks and nature play. She provides boxes of toys for babies to five-year olds, has play dough, craft supplies and brings healthy nibbles.

She said playgroups are valuable for parents, especially those with their first child.

“It’s important for parents out there, that might have stopped working, to have somewhere they can go to and get out of their four walls if they’re feeling a bit isolated, and for the children to be able to socialise with others,” she said.

“My two-year-old, she talks about a child from playgroup every single day and really looks forward to going each week, so it’s very exciting for her and good to see that she’s able to interact, play and get along with other kids her own age.”

A gold coin donation is appreciated to help cover running costs, and that’s all Ms Breen said people need to think about.

“They don’t need to worry about bringing along anything. They can just jump in the car and come down. Everything’s provided.”

Visit facebook.com/groups/997908097211777 to join the group online where questions are welcome, or contact Ms Breen via 0406 112 383.

The Dereel Playgroup is registered with Playgroup Victoria.