Playgroups are for babies, toddlers and preschoolers and their parents or caregivers. They are low cost and are run by the families attending. Playgroups give parents and caregivers a chance to meet to discuss ideas, challenges and the joy and frustration of parenting.

Playgroup-aged children are going through a stage of rapid brain and skill development. Playgroup encourages that development because at playgroup, babies are offered play experiences to stimulate their senses, toddlers practise their developing physical, intellectual and language skills, and preschool children practise social skills – important preparation for kindergarten and school.

Playgroup can be a lifeline to parents of babies, todders and preschoolers who might not have any other opportunity to get to know local parents going through similar experiences.

New parents in the City of Port Philip are offered the chance to join a playgroup when they complete their six week New Parent program with their Maternal and Child Health Nurse. The babies, aged from 6-12 weeks when they join a group, are given the opportunity to rapidly expand their communication, social and motor skills through interaction with other children while parents tap into a valuable support network.

Each playgroup session runs differently and the structure is entirely up to the members of each individual group. Ideas for activities can be sourced from Playgroup Victoria.

Centre and Facilities

ECP provides its members with excellent facilities in the newly refurbished Burnett Grey Maternal and Child Health Centre. The centre has two furnished playrooms, both well stocked with a great supply of toys and play equipment to suit baby and toddler groups.  In addition to a variety of toys and equipment the centre has highchairs, toilets and baby change facilities and the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen.

Both playrooms have access to fenced and shaded outdoor areas, providing swings, sandpits, climbing equipment and slides, ride-on toys and cubby houses.

Executive Committee

ECP is a non-profit organisation run by a volunteer Executive Committee. This committee is made up of participating members of the ECP and positions are renewed regularly to ensure fresh ideas and thoughts are considered.