Did you hear the beautiful playgroup grandparent who spoke on ABC Radio in July about the benefits of attending playgroup with her grandchildren?

It was a wonderfully eloquent piece that really drilled down the importance of play for both child and adult and reinforced the need for social networks for the young and old.

I particularly loved it when another voice called in to tell listeners that he felt enormously privileged to care for his grandchildren during the day and he never viewed it as babysitting or a chore. I felt an overwhelming surge of gratitude towards my own parents who cared for my three boys when I went back to work.

Playgroup WA promotes grandparents attending playgroups across the State – there are specific grandparent playgroups operating in North Perth, South Fremantle and Melville and loads of grandparents attending regular playgroup sessions in the ‘burbs as well as our country community playgroups.

So if you know of a grandparent caring for their grandchildren who might benefit from going to playgroup (and let’s face it, going to the park in winter is not always fun), encourage them to get in touch with Playgroup WA who will help them to find a group on a day and time that suits them!

And if you attend a community playgroup start spreading the word that grandparents are welcome – you’ll tap into an amazing wealth of experience and the grandparents will surely benefit from your knowledge of selfies and social media!

Remember, playgroup is a low cost activity for babies and children and a great way for adults to access community support.

Many little ones make their first friends at playgroup and an increasing number of adults tell us their playgroup is where they finally found their ‘village’.

There are playgroup vacancies across the State so if you’re looking to meet parents or grandparents in your area start with Playgroup WA.

Kath is a 40-year-old mum of three who works part time and enjoys reading, writing and catching up with other stressed out mums in her spare time. Usually she’s racing against the clock to make her boys (+ husband) arrive anywhere on time and feels quite the talented mother when two out of the three make it out of the house with shoes on!