This week is National Playgroup Week (20-26 March) and playgroups across the North Coast are being encouraged to apply for a one-off grant to enrich their play experiences.

Play Matters Australia is a not-for-profit that facilitates play groups, play experiences, and music therapy to more than 15,000 families every week, in every state and territory across the country.

This year, the charity turns 50, and to celebrate, it’s offering 50 Grants for 50 Years to local playgroups. The grants, worth $500, can be spent on toys, equipment, art and craft, and more at EducationAll.

Play Matters Australia spokesperson Julia Oreopoulos said play is an essential part of childhood, with research demonstrating its impact on children’s development.

“Play Matters Australia invests in research that supports the positive impacts of play, music, and movement on children’s brain development,” Ms Oreopoulos said.

“Learning through play is different to being taught. Play can shape cognitive, emotional, and social development. It helps children fine-tune their motor skills, problem-solving and hand-eye coordination, develop their language and social skills, and enhance their physical and emotional wellbeing. Playgroups are an ideal setting for children to engage in play.

“Importantly, playgroups also focus on the parent/child relationship, to help ensure caregivers are given the skills and confidence they need to parent effectively.”

Ms Oreopoulos said play is for everyone.

“Play Matters affiliates and supports more than 500 playgroups, 70 per cent of which are located in regional and remote Australia,” Ms Oreopoulos said.

“Playgroups are run from parks, churches, libraries, schools, community hubs, kindergartens, corporate offices and online. They have a valuable role in connecting children, parents, and communities through play.

“Many playgroups are volunteer-led, and we know a grant of up to $500 can go a long way in helping facilitators provide new toys and resources to families that attend groups.

“We encourage all local providers to become affiliated with Play Matters Australia and apply for one of our grants, as we celebrate our 50-year milestone.”

To apply for a grant, head to the Play Matters Australia website.

Applications close Monday, 24 April 2023.