Along the Victorian coast, where distinctive Norfolk Island pine trees run along the main beach, families play and explore, the waves and seagulls their soundtrack. Not too far down the road, friendly facilitators welcome families and carers to the local Torquay playgroup. This is a playgroup that sets itself apart- it is a playgroup that understands what it is like to have a child with additional needs. As such, the group creates a safe space to nurture the child and support those close to them.

Helen Punton has been a PlayConnect+ facilitator in Torquay for almost two years. We spoke with her to learn more about the experience, benefits and joys of being part of the program.

What makes the PlayConnect+ playgroup program unique?

This program is unique as it is a program specifically designed for families with children who have developmental delays and chronic illness. Often families may be reluctant to join groups in their local community due to fear, worry they won’t ‘fit in’- they worry that their child might feel overwhelmed and they too may feel overwhelmed.

This program provides a safe space for families who may be experiencing similar things to come together, connect and potentially ‘find their tribe’. It is also unique as it is provided at no cost to families.

“The program is also unique as it provides an environment where a child can be themselves, with no pressure or expectation to follow a schedule, sit a mat time and the child can be celebrated for who they are.”

Helen pictured with her PlayConnect+ colleague Beatriz

What would you say to a parent or carer who feels apprehensive about coming to playgroup?

I can understand that for many parents it can be quite daunting walking into a playgroup for the first time, especially for a parent of a child with additional needs.

“I often say to parents who are enquiring about our group: ‘Pop in to meet myself and colleague, come along for a session to get a sense for what the group is all about and see if it feels like a good fit for you and your family’.”

I also mention for them to stay as long or as little as they like initially, whilst they and their child are adjusting to the new environment and people. I hope that this reduces any pressure or expectation and shows that the group is welcoming and supportive.

Working with children- what have they taught you over the years?

They have taught me to be patient! Working with children has also taught me that you can never force anyone to do anything, often children will do things in their own time and when they are ready.

I have also learnt to follow their lead as much as possible, get to know them for who they are and try to understand what they might be thinking or trying to tell you by watching and listening.

Another good lesson has been that you can read as much information as you can, listen to heaps of podcasts about children and development and behaviour but it is so important to go back to the child in front of you to learn the most!

In what ways does the PlayConnect+ experience nurture the wellbeing of the family unit?

I like to ensure that each child has a fun time each time they attend the program.

“I love to get to know each of them, learn what they each enjoy and what their interests are and incorporate these into the program where possible.”

For parents, watching their child have fun and enjoying a group program can provide joy and happiness. I also feel the group can provide positive benefits to maternal and paternal mental health by providing a sense of belonging, supporting social connections and facilitating attachment and bonding with their child. I feel if parents have good mental health it has huge impacts on the whole family unit and can assist to promote all family members health and wellbeing.

On hard days, what advice do you have for the parents and carers you meet with at PlayConnect+?

My advice would be to give themselves some grace and compassion. I would encourage them to go gently and where possible, reduce demands and pressures on themselves and/or their family. I would encourage them to schedule some self care where possible, even it is short or small. I would also make sure to continue to delight in their child and see the positives in them and continue to remind them that the PlayConnect+ program is a regular stable and safe space that we look forward to them being a part of each and every week.

In what positive ways can the PlayConnect+ program uplift the week of families and carers?

I feel the PlayConnect+ program has the potential to be a regular time of the week where they can come and relax and spend an enjoyable two hours a week with their child alongside other parents.

“I feel like the group has the potential to really shine a light on each beautiful individual child who is seen for who they are and all their strengths. It can be a lonely road raising a child with additional needs and I aim to provide an environment where parents feel less alone, are able to delight in their child alongside staff and other parents and feel a sense of belonging in the community.”

I believe this can be hugely uplifting in a parents week and I hope each parent leaves each session feeling lighter and more positive.

Learn More About PlayConnect+ playgroups and Join a Group Near You Here

Article by Sinead Halliday