For this playgroup, the meaning of 'ECO' is twofold.

It refers to the ecology of human relationships that is central to the inspiration for this playgroup. A gathering of individuals to form a community - children who need to play, be in nature, quiet their minds and reset. Parents who want a space to come as they are, take their foot off the pedal, and receive acceptance and support.

It also draws on my personal interests that I'm keen to incorporate into a program for children and families - natural living, health and wellbeing, respect for the environment and learning and parenting approaches inspired by the natural world.

What makes this playgroup unique?

Facilitated by a qualified and experienced educator and mother of 2 - I have been working with children and families for 10 years as an early childhood educator, trainer and consultant. I am passionate about play based and experiential learning for developing skills and dispositions that equip children for life. I see each child’s uniqueness and believe in the value of not fitting the mould. I enjoy learning about education and parenting approaches that are in the best interests of children and believe respectful, reflective and intentional interactions are fundamental.
The sessions will include visual prompts for parents about the intent behind some of the experiences and ideas for scaffolding learning, supporting you to replicate or extend the play at home and feel inspired to play with your child.

All ages - multi-aged play settings is a model implemented in many high quality early childhood services, where children are not separated in rooms by age. Instead, the spaces are open for all children to access and play with or alongside one another. I have seen the benefits of this through my work as an educator - younger children watching the play of older peers and wanting to practice skills they may not otherwise be exposed to. Older children working with adults to care for babies. Children giving each other instructions in play, negotiating to set limits and establish boundaries, role modelling, mentoring, and guiding each other’s behaviour. Comfortable spaces will be available for younger children and babies to safely enjoy the environment in ways suited to them, including tummy time, sensory, music and stories. You will be asked to record your child’s age when booking so that I can plan the session accordingly.

Playgroup with a philosophy - I believe all education settings (especially early childhood) should allow children more time in nature, engaged in tasks that humans are designed for. In the context of a playgroup, I believe children's capacities are far greater than what plastic toys and coloured rice can provide. Children are competent and capable of using real materials. At this playgroup your child can enjoy open ended and natural resources intentionally selected to provoke wonder, curiosity, and higher order thinking. Your child can use the resources to suit the purpose of their play and the direction of their imagination. Children can come and go from the experiences as they wish. As an educator and mother, I also value the role that adults can play in providing wise guidance, asking thought provoking questions and giving children a nudge towards their highest potential. This playgroup will blend a child-led approach with moments of intentional facilitation by me through group experiences, circle meetings and one on one interactions to support your child's learning.

Materials are sustainable and promote wellbeing – resources for play will complement the natural world and be either made of natural materials or gentle on the environment. Children will be exposed to concepts of repurposing, recycling, and resourcefulness by exploring sustainable alternatives to common activities, such as clay instead of playdough.

Refreshments provided - no need to pack snacks or stress if you’ve forgotten to eat in the morning rush. Morning tea is provided and made with quality, healthy ingredients to nourish you and the little ones.

Support for parents – a judgement free zone where we’re not about appearances, but about doing our best and finding common ground in shared values. I want parents to feel uplifted by the conversations at this playgroup by means of a low pressure, social atmosphere. I am open to discussion from an educators' perspective about your child's play and development and any early childhood questions you may have.

Some of the experiences to be enjoyed at the playgroup sessions (with some variation):

Circle meetings with tea, song, story and discussion

Preparing a picnic morning tea and ‘setting the table’

Tea party

Clay table with natural loose parts, water and tools for shaping and moulding

Music and movement

Cosy mats, rugs, and cushions for all to relax

Sensory for babies

Floral art

Natural paints and dyes, observational drawing

Essential oils and aromatherapy

Books and storytelling

Water play

Tree climbing, cubby building, exploring the outdoors and nature walks (depending on location)

Please dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor setting. Bring sunscreen, a change of clothes for your child (don’t dress them in their best as we’ll be embracing messy) and plenty of water. There are public toilets, shelter, parking and a coffee van at this reserve.

Parents and children under 18 months are free if accompanying a paying older sibling. Ticket prices listed are introductory. Please join the waitlist if tickets are sold out and I will add more or contact you if there is a cancellation.

Photo and video will be taken at the playgroup for social media. Please email me if you do not wish for your image to be shared.

Can’t wait to meet you!

Victoria.