Play their own way

By Nicole Williams
THE City of Casey is celebrating its unique playgroups with the launch of a new book – ‘Celebrating 100 Diverse Playgroups in Casey in 2009’.
The book was launched by City of Casey mayor Lorraine Wreford, who said playgroups had an important role in connecting community members and stimulating children’s early development.
“Playgroups are a powerful support mechanism for parents and carers, and such a wonderful foundation for life for our youngest residents,” Cr Wreford said.
“The book is a bright, happy journey through the municipality, providing a snapshot of the unique learning and play opportunities,”
It will help the council promote playgroups in the area, as well as provide a historical snapshot of the groups operating in 2009.
The 100 participating playgroups each contributed a unique page to the book to represent the diverse range of play opportunities available in the City of Casey.
Cr Wreford highlighted the inclusion of all types of playgroups including for children with special needs, multiple birth families, differing faiths, for fathers, solo parents and mums experiencing post-natal depression.
The Department of Early Childhood Education provided $7000 to fund the project.