This is a collaborative post: A ‘playgroup’ is literally as the name describes; a group for your child to play and grow. As they are not mandated by law, a lot of parents question their necessity. While there are several benefits, it is also an investment in terms of time and money. So read on to answer the question, is a playgroup necessary?
What is a playgroup?
Primarily for babies, toddlers and preschool age children, a playgroup is an opportunity for parents and carers to bring their kids together and create a social network. Usually held once a week, playgroups are your child’s first foray into the outside world, where they get to interact with other kids and adults, learn some basic knowledge like numbers and alphabets, and of course – play! This community is also very beneficial for parents and caregivers, as you get to make new friends with shared experiences in a relaxed, open environment. Playgroups can be ‘self-managed’, i.e. run by the community itself, or they can be ‘supported’ by educational experts.
There are three levels of playgroups depending on your child’s age, which cater to their specific developmental and social needs. From 6-12 months, at level one, your child will be exposed to fun activities ranging from music and stories to hands-on games that build motor and sensory skills. At level 2, when your toddler is between 13-24 months, there is a greater focus on social and communication skills, while still continuing the fine motor and gross motor development and sensory exploration. Once your child is 2 years old, they can attend level 3, where creativity, imagination and language are key components of the curriculum.
What is taught in a playgroup?
With the focus on creative, unstructured learning via play, there are several key skills and areas of development that are addressed in a playgroup.
Depending on the level and the type of playgroup, some concepts that are taught include:
- Naming things such as the calendar, colours, shapes and animals.
- Motor skills like drawing, painting, gluing and cutting.
- Social skills like listening, talking, sharing and taking turns.
- Physical activity like running, jumping, hopping, playing with balls and other toys.
Many playgroup teachers also adapt their educational approach to the needs of the students, and the small group sizes make individual attention possible. A playgroup at Tutor Time can also be seen as an opportunity to prepare for kindergarten or preschool, with topics such as literacy, maths and science being introduced. The routine varies from playgroup to playgroup, but can usually involve circle time, unstructured play and creative or physical activities.
What makes a good playgroup?
While the needs of each child are different and thus what is taught is individualized, overall some of the key things to consider for a good playgroup are as follows. The first thing to consider is the venue: is it safe, hygienic, convenient and fun?
A colourful and creative environment with toys and other playthings is great for your child’s development, and signals careful thought and attention to detail that you’d want from a playgroup. Another thing to consider is the curriculum or the structuring activities of the playgroup, as this is where your little one will be spending most of their time. The activities need to be developmentally appropriate and also culturally inclusive.
They should also include time for free play, thus allowing your child to take initiative and enjoy themselves. Finally, parents should be welcome and involved. A playgroup is also for caregivers as they need a sense of community, and want to watch their kids grow and develop.
How much does a playgroup cost in Hong Kong?
There are a multitude of options for playgroups in Hong Kong, with a wide price range. There are several options that are free or donation-based, and are therefore accessible for families of all backgrounds.
Another set of playgroups ask for contributions ranging from HK$20-80 per session for the running of the playgroup, which is usually reinvested.
More established playgroups, which have a teacher and a range of resources that are particularly designed for the development of your child, have prices ranging from HK$200-500 per class, with discounts for monthly or full-term enrolment.
Conclusion
Is a playgroup necessary? Not always, but there are so many benefits for both parents and children. With so many options for the kind of playgroup and pricing, we believe, why not! So check out the options in your neighbourhood and you and your little one will surely have a great time!