Joining Play2Thrive Playgroups
You can apply to join a Supported Playgroup if you:
1. Have a child aged 0-5 years,
2. And at least one of the following describes your family:
You are from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family.
Your family identifies with another culture or may have been born overseas, speak a language other than English at home or are from a refugee background
A family member (adult or child) has mental health concerns
You are a young parent under 25 years
You feel isolated from the community
You or your family have experienced trauma, including violence, grief, serious illness or natural disasters
A child or parent in your family has a disability
You are facing financial challenges
A child in your family is not participating well in school, family, and community life.
How to apply
To join Play2Thrive, you will need to give Playgroup NSW some information. It is important that this information is up-to-date and correct so that we know whether this program is right for you. We can help you with your application if needed.
Code of Conduct
Everyone has the right to feel safe and included when they come to playgroup. When you join Sutherland Supported Playgroups, you agree to:
Treat others with respect, kindness and consideration
Not behave in any way that may harass, disrupt or discriminate against others at playgroup
Take responsibility for the safety and behaviour of your children during playgroup sessions
Be a part of the playgroup activities and contribute to a positive, inclusive atmosphere
Follow the guidance of our playgroup educators
Follow all safety guidelines and ensure the well-being of yourself and others
Report any safety concerns or incidents to playgroup facilitators immediately
Respect the privacy and confidentiality of all people at the playgroup
Look after your personal belongings during playgroup sessions.
Additionally, please be mindful of the following:
Our playgroup is a nut-free zone; kindly refrain from bringing nuts or nut-based products.
Avoid bringing hot drinks to the playgroup to prevent any potential incidents.
As we transition into spring and summer, remember to pack an extra set of clothes for water play.
Bring their morning tea, allowing them to join their new friends for a shared meal.
Photography and Media
Photographs and videos may be taken during playgroup sessions for promotional purposes. Please tell one of the educators if you do not want you or your children photographed.
Privacy and confidentiality
We will protect any personal data or information you share with us in accordance with Playgroup NSW and Data Exchange IT system hosted by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS). You can ask us if you want more information about privacy and confidentiality.
Access and attendance
If there are no places available in our Supported Playgroups when you apply, your family will be added to a waiting list. A staff member will contact you when a place becomes available.
There may be times when families may have priority for a place at a playgroup. It is therefore important to let us know about your family and if your circumstances change in any way.
Please tell us if you are not able to keep coming to playgroup. If you stop attending playgroup for three weeks in a row and have not been in contact, we may allocate your place to another family.
Moving on to a community playgroup
Educators will collaborate with you once a year to assess your family's readiness to move from the Supported Playgroup to a community playgroup. Factors that may be considered include your child’s developmental stage, your family situation and the level of support you need.
If you are moving to a community playgroup, our supported playgroup educators and community playgroup organisers will work with you to create a transition plan and support you in the process.
Cancellation and Changes
There may be times when Playgroup NSW needs to cancel or reschedule playgroup sessions. You will be notified in advance of any changes as soon as possible.