How to Set Up a Playgroup

Unlike your teen, who is in full charge of her social schedule, your toddler or preschool-aged child needs your help when it comes to spending time with similarly aged friends. Although toddlers typically still engage in parallel play -- playing near but not with other children -- they can benefit from the social situations of a playgroup. As your child grows into the preschool years, a playgroup will provide her with the opportunity to make true friends and practice developing skills such as sharing and cooperating with others. Gather together neighborhood kids, invite other moms from day care to join in or talk to some of the parents at the park to kick off your new playgroup.

Instructions

    • 1

      Speak up at your child's day care, the local playground or anywhere else where you know there are plenty of parents and kids who are roughly the same age as your own. Use word-of-mouth to get the message out that a playgroup is forming in your community.

    • 2

      Introduce yourself and your playgroup's purpose at local kids' events or community activities.

    • 3

      Check out online mothering sites, support groups or community chats to meet other parents who live near you. Websites such as Mothers of Preschoolers or Meetup have links to local community playgroups or provide ways to start one in your area.

    • 4

      Gather the potential group of kids together to see how everyone gels. Expect to see some unruly or unwanted behaviors, depending on the age of the children. For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics -- on their HealthyChildren.org website -- notes that a 2-year-old's seemingly selfish behavior is typical for the age.

    • 5

      Compile an email list of all the parents in your playgroup. Send group emails to the entire list with a monthly events calendar or ask the group for suggestions when it comes to meetups or activities. Use the email system as a way to set up a schedule and discuss new possibilities for play.

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