CFC & HUG Playgroups
What are Playgroups?
Playgroup is a “no pressure” atmosphere that is a relaxed and supportive time for children to experience free exploration play, structured circle time with a story and music, large motor activities, art, and a snack.
Playgroup is an opportunity for parents and children to meet others and experience social situations in a safe space.
Playgroup provides new, creative, easy activities and ideas for parents to incorporate at home.
Playgroups Schedule
9:30-11:00
9:25/9:30 Arrival – Sign In
9:30-9:45 Free play
9:50-10:10 Circle Time
Hello song, 2-3 activities
10:10-10:30 Centers
Sensory, Large Motor, Art
10:30-10:40 Transitions
Song, Clean up, Book
10:40-10:55 Hand Washing Song, Snack
10:55 - Good Bye
Good bye song & lights off
Who are the people involved and what are their roles?
The Child
Playing with a variety of toys
Learning new concepts
Socializing with other children
Taking turns and sharing with others
Accepting direction from adults in structured group settings
The Caregiver
Encourage playing with a variety of toys
Model how to play appropriately with toys
Encourage interactions with other children
Provide communication models
Encourage turn-taking and sharing
Encourage participation at some level in all activities—THIS MAY REQUIRE HAND OVER HAND AND CAUSE PROTEST AND/OR RESISTANCE FROM THE CHILD---THAT’S OK!!
The Provider (PT-Physical Therapy, OT-Occupational Therapy, DT-Developmental Therapy, SW-Social Work, ST-Speech Therapy)
Model strategies to make playgroup more successful, including hand over hand assistance for participation in activities
Share ways to incorporate strategies at home
Discuss child’s playgroup experience/challenges at the appropriate times, always remembering to be respectful of the group so we can ensure a successful playgroup for each child
The Service Coordinator/Parent Educator
Assist families and provide support during the playgroup experience
Assist the playgroup facilitator in running the group
The Parent Liaison
Support and assist families in the playgroup experience
Connect families with each other
Provide information about disabilities, transition, services, workshops, trainings
The Playgroup facilitators
Facilitates the playgroup following the theme, implementing a variety of developmental skills into each activity and providing support to families.
