Q: “We have a playgroup running already. Should we join the association?”
A: A number of playgroups begin as informal mother’s groups or baby and toddler play dates, but at some point it makes sense to become an ‘official’ playgroup by joining up with your state or territory playgroup association, for the reasons listed below.
Q: “I don’t currently go to any playgroup, but I want to. Do I need to join up first?”
A: One of the great things about playgroup is that you can 'try before you buy'. By calling the state or territory playgroup association on 1800 171 882, you'll get some details of local playgroups, and you can have two or three complimentary visits (just contributing around $2-4 to the local playgroup to cover their costs), which helps you try a few different playgroups, to find one that’s right for you and your child.
Once you’ve found a playgroup that you like and start going each week, you need to join the playgroup association, and you'll either do this directly with their office, or you may be able to pay your membership fee to the local playgroup.
This membership process varies a bit from state to state, so just contact playgroup or call 1800 171 882 if you need more information.
Q: “So what exactly are the benefits of joining as a member?”
A: When you join up with your state or territory playgroup association you’ll find that your annual membership quickly pays for itself, due to the many valuable member benefits:
1. Comprehensive insurance cover for all playgroup activities - Peace of mind for you and the other families, just in case any accidents occur at playgroup.
2. Regular magazines and emails - Playgroup newsletters have articles about parenting, playgroup news, play ideas, child’s development, healthy eating, special events, discounts and giveaways, and more!
3. A complementary Australian Baby Card - enjoy shopping discounts on a wide range of goods and services for families with children aged 0 to 10.
4. Playgroup member discounts for playgroup shop, concerts, speaker tours, resources and other purchases -From play activity cards to toy libraries to cheap, fun events for playgroup outings, loads of discounts are available through your playgroup association! There are also a range of shopping deals from supporting businesses. Check out what’s on offer with your state or territory playgroup association.
5. Quality support and advice from specialist staff - Your playgroup association is there whenever you need them for information and guidance. They can help with tips and ideas to manage the day-to-day running of your playgroup, and there may be training you can do.
6. New family referrals -Families constantly want to find out about local playgroups, so being a member of the association means you’ll get new families referred to you. It’s another important way of keeping your playgroup running.
All this for one low annual fee of less than $40! (the annual fee differs, so please check with your state or territory playgroup association)
Contact playgroup now about joining up, or call 1800 171 882 (freecall)