Pathfinders Inverell Family and Youth Support Service (IFYSS) hosts the supported playgroup to offer age-appropriate activities and a support gathering for parents with babies, toddlers and pre-school aged children.

Natasha Brown, IFYSS Family Support Worker and acting Bun Bun Facilitator, said the program is looking forward to welcoming and engaging more children and families to the playgroup this year to partake in a range of fun and educational activities.

“We want to let parents and carers know that we’re up and running again and eager to have more children and families attend,” said Ms Brown.

“We engage the children in imaginary play, sensory play and educational play so whether they’re hands deep in kinetic sand or putting puzzles together, the kids are developing and learning at the same time.”

Last year, an average of eight children attended each week with their mums and carers, though numbers swelled or lessened depending on the time of year.

So far, the playgroup has hosted two sessions with the little ones making finger-painted Valentine’s Day crafts this week.

“This supported playgroup is as much a fun, educational opportunity for the children as it is a social outing for parents and carers in our rural communities,” said Ms Brown.

“An important element of playgroup is providing time for families to interact with each other, spend time with their children and give them a chance to seek assistance from other Pathfinders services if needed.”

New families will also receive little gift packs with information on health, nutrition and other helpful information for their child’s wellbeing.

Anyone with a child aged 0 to 5 years old is welcome to attend Bun Bun supported playgroup at the Ashford Memorial Hall on Wednesdays from 10am to noon for no cost.

For questions about the Bun Bun Playgroup, call IFYSS on 6720 8850 or email natashab@pathfinders.ngo