Community playgroups are volunteer-led groups that bring families together for play, learning, and connection. Playgroup SA provides backbone support to help these groups thrive. We work behind the scenes to ensure community playgroups have access to venues, resources, training, and advice, while also connecting them with local services and broader systems of support. This makes playgroups more sustainable, inclusive, and accessible for all families.
Who is Community Playgroup Support for
For new playgroups
- Parents and carers who want to start a playgroup in their community.
- Community members, volunteers, or community development workers interested in establishing a group.
- Services and organisations looking to support families by hosting or partnering with a playgroup.
For existing playgroups
- Parents, carers, and volunteers who are already coordinating a playgroup and would like extra support.
- Committees and leaders seeking advice on governance, sustainability, inclusion, or resources.
- Playgroups wanting to strengthen their quality, access, and connection to local services.
What to expect
As a backbone organisation, Playgroup SA supports playgroups by providing a dedicated staff member to offer tailored support for your needs.
For new playgroups
- Help with getting started, including start-up assistance, venues, and insurance cover.
- Tailored advice to guide parents, coordinators, and community members through the process of establishing a group.
- Access to resources and training, including free online training, to build confidence in leading a playgroup.
For existing playgroups
- Personalised support to manage challenges and strengthen your group.
- Practical advice for coordinators, committees, and leaders on governance, sustainability, and inclusion.
- Guidance on providing inclusive, child-centred, play-based sessions.
- Ongoing support with resources, training, and advice to meet your group’s needs.
- Regular communication through e-newsletters and online groups.
- Connections to services, funding opportunities, and referral pathways.
Benefits
For families and communities, backbone support means:
- Affordable and accessible playgroups that reflect local needs.
- High-quality play experiences informed by evidence about child development.
- Social connection, peer support, and improved family wellbeing.
- Stronger community networks and collaborations at local, regional, and state levels.
For new playgroups
- Confidence to get started with the right support, training, and resources.
- Access to venues, insurance, and start-up assistance that remove barriers.
- Clear pathways to connect with families and grow participation.
For existing playgroups
- Tailored advice for coordinators, committees, and supported playgroup leaders to strengthen sustainability and inclusion.
- Guidance on governance, resourcing, and running safe, inclusive sessions.
- Ongoing support to manage challenges and keep groups thriving long term.
When & where
Our team provides outreach support by visiting community playgroups in the places where families gather. We meet groups in their local venues; such as community centres, libraries, churches, or parks; to provide tailored advice, resources, and connection. This ensures support is available where families live, learn, and play.
How to access support
Whether you are starting a new playgroup or looking for support with an existing one, there are simple ways to connect with Playgroup SA:
- Complete the online Support Form – this helps us understand your needs and prepare tailored assistance before we connect with you.
- Call or email our team – if you’d prefer to speak with someone directly, we’re here to help.
- Search for a local playgroup online – families can explore nearby community playgroups and join a group that fits their needs.
Registration with Playgroup SA provides insurance, reduced costs, and ongoing access to resources, training, and expert support.
Contact us /More information
For more information please email: [email protected]
