Fathers join playgroup committee

A playgroup has been formed in Umina with two fathers on the volunteer committee.

Ettalong father Mr Chris Garvin, has been named committee coordinator, with Umina father Mr Dirk Correll and Umina mother Ms Jamie Heggen also on the committee.

"Playgroup NSW (PGNSW) is delighted to have two dad's elected to this new committee," said Playgroup NSW's state development officer, Ms Jennifer Muir.

"While Playgroup NSW has welcomed dads, grandparents and many carers to playgroups across NSW for many years, we still find that mums with children 0-6, dominate attendance at playgroup.

"This is really an opportunity for us to celebrate dads at playgroup, encourage more dads who are taking a caring role with their children to attend, and welcome them to playgroup," she said.

Umina Koala Kids Playgroup would like to encourage new members to join them in Term 3, which commences on July 23.

They meet at the Umina Uniting Church Hall at 350 Ocean Beach Rd, Umina, each Wednesday morning from 10am to 12pm during school terms.

Playgroup does not meet during the school holidays.

"Playgroup is one of the first and most important social networks for children and families.

"It is a lightly structured, informal gathering where parents, other carers, babies and children up to school age come together in a relaxed and friendly environment to connect, play and learn," Ms Muir said.

At playgroup, children engage in craft activities, indoor and outdoor play, music and have morning tea.

"Attending playgroup has many benefits for a child's physical, social, emotional, language and cognitive development.

"It also offers a wonderful opportunity for parents to make new friends, learn from one another and develop a supportive local network.

"Families can visit two playgroup sessions and then need to become a Playgroup NSW member to continue attending," Ms Muir explained.

More information is available on Playgroup NSW's website.

SOURCE:

Media release, 4 Jul 2018

Jennifer Muir, Playgroup NSW