A new resource for Indigenous playgroups

"Playgroups was written to assist family members set up playgroups for children in the communities located in Ngaanyatjarra lands in Western Australia, and may also be a helpful example for families developing playgroups in any community," said authors Anne Shinkfield and Beryl Jennings.

Our Foundation, with the support of LotteryWest, is pleased to fund a new resource for playgroups. Playgroups - playing to get ready for school is based on Anne and Beryl's many years experience working with playgroups in remote communities. The book is filled with detailed information, photographic examples, and suggestions, making it a complete resource for any playgroup environment. Nearly 40 organisations either running a playgroup or setting up a playgroup have ordered copies from us, and will be using this resource within the next few weeks.

Is your organisation running a playgroup or thinking about starting up a playgroup in a remote Indigenous community?

Our Foundation is proud make this invaluable resource available to remote and isolated communities. To order a free copy, please email tina@ilf.org.au by 31 October 2013. If you have any queries or would like more information contact our head office on 02 9319 2883 or tina@ilf.org.au

If you do not work in a remote community, copies can be purchased by downloading the order form and sending it back to us.

So what is a playgroup and why have one in the community?

“A playgroup is a place for mothers and little children to come to learn and play together,” said Anne. "Our model empowers parents and helps children to prepare for schools."

“It’s good to have a playgroup in the community. It is a special place where children can learn. It is the best place where we can help them, by reading and speaking to the children and to help them feel confident,” explained Beryl.

Since 2009, our Foundation has had the privilege to visit the playgroup in Warburton, which Anne and Beryl set up and where Anne continues to work. An environment that has such a wonderful vibe and energy generating bonding, care, exploration, conversation, play and learning! An unforgettable experience that demonstrates just how important and vital playgroups can be.