Babies, once in mum’s arms, are now crawling. Little two-year old’s are exploring on their wobbly little feet and blink, they are now four-years-old talking animatedly. The growth period from birth to five is so rapid, staggering in its developmental leaps and here at Adventure Seekers playgroup, many of the families have witnessed this growth period together.

“I have had families with me since our girls were five months old,” said mum of two Arta Gashi, who runs the playgroup.

“I have had lots of them come and be part of a community, a village even. Lots of us help with each other’s children. It’s just a space we know we are going to come to every Friday and that’s what inspires me really.”

When Arta first launched into motherhood, she was eager to dispel the idea of these years being long and drawn-out days for parents and carers.

“Oh I thought, I don’t want it to be boring and it’s fun showing mums that it can be fun and low effort in play. It all comes back down to play I feel.”

Arta has this year been one of the most nominated Playgroup Champions to date. The initiative run by Playgroup Victoria aims to shine a light on all those who bring local playgroups to life each week, supporting the wellbeing of family and community.

Unbeknownst to many champions are the preventative strategies they are putting in place- reducing isolation, creating a place of belonging, supporting mental health, connecting families to services, among other things.

“You can see and just feel how amazing the vibes are at every playgroup through how the kiddies are enjoying it but also the parents too,” said Marina Peni who was one of the parents who nominated Arta.

“She really does go above and beyond every Friday and never fails to ensure my kid and I, and I bet a lot of other parents kids, leave feeling like they had the best time ever, even if it only lasts two hours.”

Mum Monique appreciates the engaging experiences that Arta prepares, capturing the children’s curiosity and wonder, across a wide range of ages.

“Beyond the experiences she creates for children, Arta has cultivated a safe and welcoming community for families,” said Monique.

“She provides a space where parents and caregivers feel comfortable connecting, sharing, and supporting one another. Arta’s dedication, creativity, and commitment make her truly deserving of recognition as a Playgroup Champion.”

One of the dads at the playgroup said that Arta goes above and beyond during her play sessions for all who attend.

“It’s a space where children are immersed in various types of play- sensory, nature, open ended. She’s a true believer in community and bringing everyone together. She has two young children of her own, aged one and three, who she brings along as well. A true super mum! She is so passionate about what she does and really cares about others.”

With an early childhood background and a panache for play-based learning, the playgroup fosters Arta’s creative streak.

There was some trepidation early on, taking on the role of running the playgroup when she was freshly post-partum, but as well as providing a creative outlet and a focus for Arta, the relationships that formed proved most compelling.

“I kept running it because I felt the need for community.”

Arta concedes that it is hard to make new friends as an adult, especially with the changes to life that take place with young babies and toddlers.

Clearly there was a need for others in her community, too.

Families have continued to return and get to know each other, expressing their appreciation for this playgroup and what it offers.

“She has created the most incredible space for children and parents each week,” said mum Brittney.

“She has put in such thought and detail, creating more than just a sensory play-based group but a village of people there for each other.”

The families speak of the friendships that have forged, having this reliable and inspiring space to come together in each week.

“Arta continuously fosters a friendly village-like environment for both parents and children,” said Caitlin Bohm.

“She is welcoming and warm, always has a variety of activities that the kids are enjoying.”

One of the mums has been moved by the effort that Arta puts in.

“Just a special soul, kind, caring, goes above and beyond for the activities for the kids and for all the parents.”

“She co-ordinates monthly donations on behalf of the group. And just makes every play session absolutely magical. A wonderful thing that has been created, an absolute joy to be a part of.”

Betty Luong, the local Child and Family Liaison Officer from Wyndham City Council, has seen Arta generously volunteer her time and energy to ensure the playgroup thrives.

“Her commitment comes from a genuine belief in the benefits of playgroup- not only for other children and families, but also for herself and her own two children. As she has said, being involved in playgroup is beneficial for her family while also giving her the opportunity to contribute to the wider community.”

Betty said that Arta has a great willingness to help, wherever needed.

“Arta plays an important role in creating a supportive, connected and enjoyable environment for everyone. Her passion and dedication make her an outstanding champion of playgroup.”

Arta’s main aim at playgroup is to take the pressure off families who are juggling.

“Having this space really allows, I feel, for parents to have a breather.”

“The value in building those core memories with your child in a space where everyone is kind of at the same stage in motherhood or raising their children.”

While at home, there is washing to be done, meals to prepare and things always for parents and carers to ‘do’ but Arta said that is not the point of playgroup. Here there is active engagement and interaction.

“Having those slow moments of play and connecting with them.”

“You are here and you’re in the flesh. I think parents are really forced to slow down, have a coffee, chat amongst each other. We have mums and dads who come, build those connections and just really immerse themselves in play.”

“That is really my biggest thing, getting children off screens and just showing families that play doesn’t have to be very complicated. I think, especially sensory play. There are so many educational tools as well.”

As studies show, a regular exchange of kindness encourages more. Someone who offers kindness on a tough day is remembered and there is an exchange thereon, even if just a smile.

Arta notices these small things at playgroup. The snacks that are shared between children. A parent lending another child a coat without prompt. A child eagerly awaiting the sight of a friend whom they want to play with. A parent gathering up a child after a tumble and comforting them by name.

“A week ago, one of the mums brought in ingredients to make pancakes for everyone, just for fun,” said Arta.

There running alongside the play and bountiful growth in each individual child are lots of happy faces, in a place where families feel comfort. The playgroup is a soft-landing space for parents and children alike to feel a real connection and to enjoy relaxed play, showing that these early years are times to savour.

A community village has been made at Adventure Seekers playgroup, with creative Arta standing in the middle, willing it on to grow.

“It’s been such a privilege to watch my kids grow up ‘at play group’,” said mum Lizzi Dunbar.

“From my just weeks old baby, to a thriving toddler whose language and space development has been supported so well by the hard work Arta puts in each week, with a wide smile and true grace. It’s not just a playgroup, it’s a family.”

Join the community at Adventure Seekers Playgroup

Email: adventureseekersplaygroup@gmail.com
Instagram: @adventureseekers__