No matter the background or culture of a family, playgroups are known to have a positive impact on children.
Carley Jones is Executive Officer at Playgroup South Australia, where she runs playgroups for culturally and linguistically diverse families and families newly arrived in Australia.
"So our latest research project shows that children gain skills in term of socialisation. Their holistic development is affected, they have an opportunity to play with different toys, different challenges, to learn social norms and how to operate in a group environment. But also, you know, have role models off the other children and learn some language skills as well,"
Cécile Taché who took over a French playgroup in Fitzroy, feels it's important that her children grow up with French language and culture, even in Australia.
There are plenty of different types of playgroups to choose from, some more structured while others are more casual, like the Fitzroy French playgroup.
And while the playgroups are great for the children, the parents say they get a lot from them too.
"Having other parents in the same situation, living the same thing, that is really good and sustaining and that really helps. You face the same challenges and you share the same culture,” Cécile Taché said.
Eric Lee is another French parent who attends the same playgroup as Cécile Taché with his young daughter.
"I don't have a circle of friends here so it would just be my colleagues who are more Anglo people. Here, I can extend my circle and talk to other parents and we can just raise issues regarding migrants, in terms of paperwork or anything, then we can share information and it's very relevant for me as well."
Newcomers can get advice and tips from other parents.
“Our research shows that parents who regularly attend a playgroup have a very strong peer support network that they can turn to if things are not going too great or if they need a babysitter. So there's a real sort of connection that happens for families who attend the playgroup." Carley Jones said.
There are thousands of playgroups around Australia.
To find one close to you, Carley Jones says the easiest way is to check online.
You can find a map covering every state on the Playgroup Australia's website, playgroup.org.au or call their toll-free number on 1800 171 882.
