Facilitated Playgroup
In our facilitated playgroups, parents and carers can interact with their children in fun and engaging activities within one of our playgroup centres. Each centre is well-resourced and has an indoor and outdoor area which children are encouraged to explore. Facilitators aim to support families with particular needs or vulnerabilities by providing opportunities for parents to meet and share experiences, and for children to play, learn and socialise.
Baby Explorer Playgroup
The Baby Explorer Playgroup is for babies aged 0-12 months old. During this playgroup parents and carers will have the time to let your little one see the world with fresh eyes and wonder! The session will allow for baby-led exploration time.
During the first few months of life, babies have a profound amount of growth and development. Through engagement, observation and play, their learning builds and grows.
Messy play
Messy play gives children a wonderful opportunity to practice many skills. Fine motor, problem solving, creativity, language and socialisation. Cognitive development is stimulated when children are engaged and focusing on an activity they enjoy. These sensory experiences also foster relaxation and activate the senses through play in a fun and inviting environment. We will be using a variety of messy materials during our play, including water, slime, paint and sand. Smocks will be provided, but we recommend wearing cloths you don’t mind getting messy. A change of clothes for the way home is also a good idea. Children will have the opportunity to roam around with their adult to experience all the different, fun textures!
Nature play
Our Nature Play sessions will be based at Cabena in Chadstone. Families will be invited to take part in a nature walk along the local walking trail and can then complete a nature-inspired activity together when they return to Cabena. Note that participating in the nature walk will be optional for families. You can elect to stay at Cabena for the duration of the session if you prefer.
Chinese Playgroup
The Chinese Playgroup provides a great opportunity to meet families from a Chinese cultural background and to build connections within your Monash Chinese community. Join us in a warm, friendly and fun-filled environment with your child to sing songs, dance and for storytelling, while also building on your knowledge of the Chinese culture. Everyone is welcome.
Online Virtual Playgroup
Our virtual playgroups take place online. These sessions are another opportunity for parents and carers to engage with their children with the guidance of our playgroup facilitators.
During these sessions, children have the opportunity to listen to stories, sing and dance.
Virtual Playgroup is suitable for all children aged 0-5 years (bigger siblings are welcome, too!). You are never too young (or too old) to listen to stories or sing some songs! Parents and carers can dance and sing-a-long with their babies and toddlers.
Sessions are held during the evening and sessions focus on stories and getting ready for bed.
Below is the current schedule of our Virtual Playgroup Sessions
Thursday evenings: 6.30pm to 7pm
These sessions are open to all Monash residents.
A link is sent out the morning of each session. If you are not already on our mailing list, or if you would like more information, please email playgroups@monash.vic.gov.au or call 0466 026 290.