Children’s playgroups, like mothers’ groups, are great for the well-being of both kids and parents. But a playgroup has to serve the needs of all its members well for it to function optimally. Can’t find a suitable group? Stay-at-home mums can certainly consider starting their own new playgroups.
Here are some useful tips to start and design playgroups for children.
Decide Who the Playgroup is For
Before starting a playgroup, a key issue is deciding who the group is for. A parent-centered group will need thorough child supervision while the parents gather and socialize. The mums may need to take turns watching the kids or the group may need to engage a babysitter to allow the parents to completely participate in group activities.
On the other hand, if the playgroup is going to be designed specifically for children, there should be considerations to host activities in places where there will be ample toys, story books, craft supplies, children’s drinks and snacks. The group can also be developed for specific children like groups for boys only or girls only, adopted children, families with an only child or prematurely born children.
Determine the Age Range of Children in Playgroup
Ideally, children within a playgroup should be close in age. For instance, babies below 12 months and toddlers are at different stages of development. Therefore, putting them together may be problematic as they won’t be able to enjoy the same activities in the same manner. This is particularly true in large playgroups.
A smaller playgroup, however, may actually benefit from having young members of different age groups. Younger children often enjoy playing with older children and having them together is also an excellent opportunity for older children to cultivate a caring attitude towards younger children.
Settle on the Playgroup Size
Large and small playgroups have their own pros and cons. Large groups are often more structured and provide additional services for members such as monthly newsletters, babysitting services at meetings, parenting seminars and perhaps even member discounts at local stores. These, however, usually take time to develop.
Groups with six to 10 kids generally work very well. These tend to be more intimate and all members have enough opportunity to mingle, socialize and share parenting experiences. A smaller group also makes things easier for the parent hosting a meeting.
Think About Activities for Kids
Some playgroups are very casual while others have regular structured activities for the kids. Many also have a combination of social playtime and structured events. Often, structured activities are ideal for children in the same age groups. They can have story time, songs and dances, art and craft and even field trips that help them learn while having fun.
Kids and parents can also benefit from social playtime in playgroups. There is no pressure in completing an artwork or being cajoled into singing and dancing. All the kids have to do is play and make friends, skills that will come in handy as they grow older and socialize on their own. And while the kids play, the mums can watch the children and chat with one another, exchange childcare ideas and form their own friendships as well.
Starting a playgroup, even a small informal group, requires some planning. First, think of who the playgroup is for. Then decide on the age range of the kids in the group, the size of the group and whether there should be casual playtime or structured activities during meetings.
Found this article useful? Read also Having Fun in Playgroups, How to Manage Behavior Problems in Playgroups and Starting a Mothers’ Group.
References:
Carren W. Joye. A Stay-at-Home Mom’s Complete Guide to Playgroups. San Jose: Writers Club Press, 2000
Playgroup Victoria Website – Starting a Playgroup
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