Supported Playgroups
Supported playgroups provide more than just a space for children to play. They're a lifeline for families who might feel isolated, are navigating challenging circumstances, or simply seeking connection with other parents in their community.
Creating Connection through Supported Playgroups
We operate free, supported playgroups across Western Australia, creating safe and welcoming spaces where young children and families can connect, learn and flourish together.
- Our Play in the park program operates across the Great Southern region, from Albany to Mount Barker
- Our Play at the Park operates at our Child Parent Centre in South Hedland
- Our Boronia Playgroup supporting incarcerated mothers and their children operates at the Boronia Pre-release Centre for Women in Bentley.
Each playgroup is led by experienced facilitators who create safe, nurturing environments for children aged 0 to 5 to explore, learn and flourish. At the same time, parents and carers have opportunities to build supportive peer networks, access guidance, and strengthen their parenting skills and overall family wellbeing.
OUR SUPPORTED PLAYGROUPS
We currently offer two three supported playgroups, each designed to strengthen families and help young children flourish
Boronia Playgroup
Engaging incarcerated mothers and children ages 0 to 4 through a weekly playgroup at Boronia Pre-release Centre for Women.
Learn more
Play in the Park
A free outdoor playgroup for families with children ages 0 to 5, running weekly in Albany, Mount Barker and other locations across the Great Southern region.
Learn more
Play at the Park
A free outdoor playgroup for families with children ages 0 to 5, running weekly at our Child Parent Centre in South Hedland.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions about our Supported Playgroups
Yes! Through partnerships with the Department of Social Services, Amity Health, and the Department of Communities, our supported playgroups are completely free.
Our Play in the Park playgroup is a drop-in service open to all families with children aged 0 to 5. While our Boronia Playgroup is specifically for incarcerated mothers at the Boronia Pre-release Centre for Women and is not open to the general public.
Through play-based learning, children develop:
- Social skills like sharing, cooperation and turn-taking
- Emotional regulation and confidence in managing feelings
- Cognitive skills through problem-solving and hands-on exploration
- School readiness, resilience and engagement
- Fine and gross motor skills through active play
- Early literacy and numeracy foundations
Parents and carers can:
- Build parenting confidence
- Strengthen their bond with their child
- Receive real-time guidance on behavioural challenges
- Meet other families and build community connections that last beyond playgroup sessions
Our team can also connect families with the Y WA’s broader network of community services and early learning centres.
Each supported playgroup has its own format. For specific information about each playgroup we encourage you to visit the specific page on our website.
Ready to join a Playgroup?
Find out more about our specific playgroups and how to get involved.