Playgroups

Playgroups are a fun, safe environment for families with young children (aged 0-5) to connect, build friendships and support children’s learning and development through play.

At playgroup you get to meet other people going through similar experiences and find out about local community, health and support services.

There are two main types of playgroups in the Ballarat region, Community Playgroups and Supported Playgroups.

A community playgroup is typically run by parents/carers or volunteers. Playgroup sessions are generally run weekly, for up to 2 hours, at various locations and venues in the community. Community playgroups welcome all families to attend, there is usually a small fee which covers the running costs of the playgroup.

We have many community playgroups in the Ballarat region. See the list of Ballarat’s community playgroups below:

See the list of Ballarat’s Community Playgroups

Smalltalk supported playgroups are a free program for families across Victoria with children from birth to school age.

A qualified facilitator leads 10* fun sessions where parents develop their skills and confidence to support their child’s wellbeing and development.  

It starts with smalltalk.

Your facilitator will guide you through simple practical strategies that can help your child feel safe and nurtured; that helps their language, communication, and social skills develop; and that really get them interested in the world around them.

There's even an opportunity to learn and practise these strategies in your own home, with one-on-one support.

At supported playgroups, parents and children enjoy a range of fun play opportunities and activities together. Parents also find out about local services and support networks in the community.

Supported Playgroups Eligibility

Smalltalk supported playgroups are state funded and free to attend for eligible families.

Priority will be given to:

• Families with children aged 0-5 years who hold a Health Care Card or another eligible card/visa
• Families supported through NDIS
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children and families
• Families that have been referred or supported by Enhanced Maternal and Child Health Services
• Families that have been referred or supported by Orange Door/child protection

Each term, Small Talk Groups are provided across Ballarat. Register your interest below and a Small Talk facilitator will give you a call with further information including session locations and times.

* Families are funded to attend our supported playgroups for 2-3 terms, then assistance is given to transition to another activity or early educational program 

To get started the first step is to reach out to the City of Ballarat Community Playgroup Officer: 

Email: ballaratplaygroups@ballarat.vic.gov.au

The Community Playgroup Officer will provide support with the following:

• Funding the cost of setting up a playgroup
• Accessing insurance, acquiring equipment and resources
• Professional support for activities and play ideas
• Understanding the benefits of playgroup for families
• Ensuring playgroup is a safe and inclusive place

There are many benefits to volunteering as a playgroup leader such as building a strong community network whilst gaining valuable skills and experience for future work or volunteering opportunities.

Phone: 5320 5820 
Email: ballaratplaygroups@ballarat.vic.gov.au
In person: Visit one of our Parent Place locations