For Jess and her two-year-old daughter Spencer, Thursdays are special. Every week, they head to the Hackham Community Centre for playgroup—a routine that has become a cornerstone of their connection, Spencer’s development, and their sense of belonging in the local community.

“When we first came, she was quite apprehensive to leave my side,” Jess said. “Playgroup helped support her to establish that safety barrier where I’m still here, but she can go and play and check back in with me.”

Now, after attending regularly, Spencer confidently explores the play space, interacts with other children, and even helps the facilitators set up activities.

“She’s really happy to help out—she knows how it’s meant to be, so she’ll hand out the tapping sticks and things like that,” Jess says.

For many families, playgroup is about more than just play. It is a place where children learn important social skills, develop confidence, and are exposed to new experiences that support their growth. Jess has seen this firsthand with Spencer.

Attendance at Hackham Community Centre’s playgroups has grown tenfold over the past six years. The centre welcomed 5,028 individual parents, carers and children to weekly playgroup sessions in 2024 compared to 470 in 2018.

In addition to the benefits for children, playgroup also provides an invaluable sense of connection and routine for parents. Jess knows how isolating it can be to raise young children, especially with the demands of a newborn.

“It’s really easy to sit at home and isolate yourself,” she shares. “Creating that routine, putting yourself and your child out there to make connections—it just feels really positive.”

Hackham Community Centre offers more than just a space for children to play. It serves as a hub for local families, providing access to resources, community programs, and support services.

“The staff are always great at letting you know about things happening in the area or services you can access,” she says.

The centre also offers food assistance through OzHarvest and a shared clothing exchange, providing additional support for local families. Outside of playgroup, Jess volunteers with local programs, including with Family by Family.

Yet, no matter how busy life gets, Thursdays remain dedicated to Spencer.

“It’s really nice to dedicate those few hours every week to focusing on my relationship with Spencer, instead of getting distracted by everything else.”

National Playgroup Week runs from 17th – 23rd of March 2025.

Hackham Community Centre offers four playgroups: two weekly supported playgroups, a weekly Japanese playgroup, and a fortnightly ‘Little Mother Earth Caretakers.’

For more details, please contact the centre at (08) 8392 3080.