If you have found yourself searching for a playgroup, there is a good chance you have also been wondering what it is actually like to walk through the doors for the first time.
Will your child enjoy it?
Will everyone already know each other?
What if your little one is shy, busy, sensitive, loud, cautious or simply not in the mood?
Almost every family who visits Aubin Grove Community Playgroup for the first time has wondered the same thing. New places can feel like a big step, for children and grown ups.
The good news is, playgroup is relaxed. There is no pressure to get it “right”. You can come as you are, settle in slowly and let the morning unfold.
What is a community playgroup?
A community playgroup is a place where local families come together to play, connect and enjoy a slower morning with their little ones.
Unlike childcare or kindy, parents, carers and grandparents stay with their children throughout the session. There are no formal lessons and no strict routine to follow. Children learn through play, while the grown-ups have the chance to chat, share a coffee and meet other families in the same season of life.
It is simple, but it matters.
Children play. Adults connect. Friendships grow.
What happens at playgroup?
Every Friday looks a little different, and that is one of our favourite things.
Some mornings the playdough table is surrounded before we have even finished setting it up. Other weeks everyone ends up outside chasing bubbles, collecting leaves or turning the play couches into cubbies.
When families arrive, children are welcome to help choose what comes out of our toy storage. From there, the morning unfolds naturally.
You might find sensory play, painting, loose parts, train tracks, dolls, books, puzzles, construction, nature play or outdoor exploration. Some children move between every activity. Others spend the whole morning happily absorbed in one thing.
Sometimes the favourite activity is not something we planned at all. A cardboard box becomes a rocket ship, a handful of leaves becomes soup and a stick becomes the most interesting thing in the room.
That is the magic of child led play.
Do we have to stay for the whole session?
No. Our sessions are free flowing, so you are welcome to arrive when it suits your family, leave early if you need to, or stay for the full morning.
We know life with babies, toddlers and preschoolers does not always go to plan. Someone falls asleep in the car, someone needs a snack, and sometimes getting out the door takes longer than expected.
That is completely okay!
Whether you stay for twenty minutes or the whole session, we are simply happy to see you.
What if my child is shy?
Every child is different, and that is exactly how we like it.
Some children walk straight in and start painting before their grown up has even put their bag down. Others prefer to stay close, watch for a while or explore slowly.
There is no pressure to join every activity or any activity at all. Children are welcome to settle in at their own pace and participate in the way that feels right for them.
We have found that when children are given time instead of pressure, confidence has a lovely way of growing.
Who can come to playgroup?
Aubin Grove Community Playgroup welcomes babies, toddlers and preschoolers from birth to five years.
Parents, carers and grandparents are all welcome too.
We are also passionate about creating an inclusive space where every child and family feels welcome. Some children love noise and movement. Others need more time, space or support. Some prefer to watch before joining in.
However your child learns, plays or connects, they are welcome here.
What should we bring?
Most families bring a water bottle, morning tea, a hat and a change of clothes.
Messy play happens often, so clothes that can handle paint, water, dirt or playdough are always a good idea.
Everything else is provided.
How much does playgroup cost?
Your first two visits to Aubin Grove Community Playgroup are free, so you can come along and see if it feels right for your family.
After your trial visits, families need an annual Playgroup WA membership, along with either a Casual Family Pass or Term Family Pass with Aubin Grove Community Playgroup.
Both Aubin Grove attendance options include all children in your immediate family.
Why families love playgroup
Playgroup is not only for little ones. It is often where parents, carers and grandparents find their village too.
It is where you meet the family who also had a tricky morning getting out the door. It is where someone understands why your toddler is wearing gumboots in summer. It is where your child starts recognising familiar faces, and where you do too.
A good playgroup has a way of making a big community feel smaller.
How do I join Aubin Grove Community Playgroup?
The easiest way to start is to come along for your first two free visits.
You can meet the families, explore the space and see if Aubin Grove Community Playgroup feels like the right fit.
Whether you are new to the area, looking for things to do with babies and toddlers in Aubin Grove, or hoping to find a welcoming local playgroup in Cockburn, we would love to meet you.
Come as you are. We will save you a spot.