Toddlers get ready to jam with new group

Victoria’s first Toddler Jam playgroup is set to launch in Torquay on November 7 as part of an Elevate Church initiative to create a fun environment for children and families.

Michelle Abou-zeid from Elevate Church said they wanted to create a playgroup that appealed to preschoolers and gave parents a chance to connect with others.

“It’s a music-based playgroup for pre-schoolers and mum and dads, grandparents or carers to come along. We do about 30 to 40 minutes of music time with kids dancing, and after that free time,” Mrs Abou-zeid said.

“Adults can have a coffee while the kids have morning tea. It’s a great environment for families to meet each other and connect, it’s open to everyone not just Elevate Church members.”

Mrs Abou-zeid said she’d had friends attend them in others states Australia-wide and was happy to be the first group in Victoria.

“This is the first time we’ve run a playgroup through the church. I really like how the kids can engage with music even if their parents aren’t musical. The kids get to enjoy the benefits.

“Parenting is hard, so we need all the support we can get and it’s just a really good safe community for families to come along to.”

As a mother of five boys (aged from 3-15) and wife to Elevate Church senior pastor Daniel, Mrs Abou-zeid said she would be taking the first few sessions while the group expanded.

“It should be a lot of fun. We’re making drums out of old formula tins, there will be maracas and coloured scarves for the children to play with,” she said.

“I’ve been a part of the church for three years and would encourage people who’ve just moved to the area to come and meet other kids and families.”

The first session will take place at the TIA Community Hall, located at 12 Price Street, on November 7 and run from 9.30am until 11am.

The cost is $7 for one child or $10 for two or more with the playgroup open to all members of the Surf Coast community, for more information phone Michelle on 0433 805 565.