Playgroups
CRCS playgroups give children aged 0–5 and their families a safe, welcoming place to connect, play, and learn. More than just weekly sessions, they build friendships, strengthen community ties, and support children’s early development – making a lasting difference to family wellbeing. Parents and carers shape their experience by choosing sessions that suit their needs and accessing CRCS educators and child and family practitioners for advice when they want it.
“At the beginning my son was even too scared to go in, but with the help of the staff and over time, he felt comfortable enough to go in, and is now thriving.” – Parent
One parent shared: “Finding this playgroup was a life-saver. I was looking for a positive, safe environment for my son, as he is mainly at home with me. So I wanted to expose him to other children and develop his social skills further. This group was perfect for that, and the staff are wonderfully helpful.” – Parent
Inclusive Play
CRCS playgroups are culturally inclusive and responsive to different learning needs:
Atfaal Family Playgroup
Run with Gungahlin Child and Family Centre, supports Muslim families with young children through fun activities and access to parenting resources.
Koori Playgroup
Co-facilitated with West Belconnen Child and Family Centre, provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families a safe, culturally grounded space to connect, grow, and strengthen identity.
NEIST Playgroup
Launched in August 2024 at Nicholls Community House, supports children who may be neurodivergent, such as those with autism, ADHD, or early developmental concerns.
Families like Kyle’s have seen first-hand how a safe, inclusive environment can help a child move from distress to confidence over just a few weeks, giving parents relief and children a place to belong.
Purpose and Wellbeing
CRCS playgroup facilitators design activities that promote social, emotional and cognitive growth while children and adults alike have fun. Parents consistently highlight the benefits:
“The activities are always very engaging and [the facilitators] are fabulous with the kids. We recommend playgroup to all our friends!”
Playgroups also strengthen the wellbeing of parents and carers, who often gain a renewed sense of purpose by supporting their child’s development, contributing to the group, and sharing experiences with others. This sense of being part of something bigger helps whole families to thrive.
195
playgroups delivered in 2024–25
1,300
families participated across Belconnen and Gungahlin
80
additional groups run in collaboration with Child and Family Centres
Stories of Impact
Parents and Children Learning Together at Latham
Every Monday, families come together at Latham Playgroup to play, learn and connect through creative themes like oceans, animals and nature. This winter, two mums found friendship and laughter as they juggled – literally – dropping and trying again while toddlers watched in delight. The next week, they made their own juggling balls, enjoying the sensory fun. Moments like these show how playgroups strengthen bonds and help families feel connected and supported.
Case Studies
Kyle’s Story: Finding Calm at NEIST Playgroup
Three-year-old Kyle arrived at playgroup distressed. With CRCS educators and a safe space, his confidence blossomed. By week three, he explored freely, bringing relief to his mum and showing playgroups’ empowering role.
Explore More of Our Impact
Each part of our work is connected. Explore more stories, programs and results from across the Annual Report.