Playgroup Ideas

Playgroups can provide the socialization that young children need when learning how to get along with others. These gatherings can also expose them to different activities, making them more willing to try new experiences. Although playgroup dates can feature free-play time, it's still important to provide some structured activities. Finding fun ways to keep playgroup members occupied can ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your playgroup.

  1. Nature Walks

    • Taking children on short outdoor walks during each season exposes them to the beauty of nature. Activities such as collecting leaves and rocks, viewing ponds and snapping pictures of plants teach young children about different landscapes and seasons. It also stresses the importance of protecting the environment. Talk to the children about weather changes and the plants and animals found in the area where you live.

    Field Trips

    • Arranging excursions to kid-friendly places will get the children excited while giving the parents the opportunity to view their children's public behavior. Trips to petting zoos, kids' museums and story time at the library can instill lessons regarding good manners as well as factual knowledge. Planning outings in advance may give you access to special tours and discounted packages.

    Craft Time

    • The kids will be delighted to create with items such as markers, paint and glue, under supervision. Select structured craft activities such as painting self-portraits or making macaroni necklaces. Choosing a theme for craft time can reduce the stress and mess and will promote active participation. Children should wear old clothing on craft day, and covering the play area with newspapers will make clean-up time much easier.

    Game Time

    • Divide group members into teams to play imaginative games. Preschool games such as musical chairs, hide-and-seek and duck-duck-goose can be played either indoors and outdoors. These games can be set up quickly and played with little clean-up afterwards. Asking the playgroup members to create their own games can encourage their creativity.

    Music Mania

    • A playgroup session filled with kid-friendly musical selections can encourage both exercise and fun. Ask parents to bring suitable videos and CDs to create an energetic playlist. Songs by artists such as the Aquabats as well as preschool shows such as "Doodlebops" and "Hi-5" are also sure to get the crowd moving. Request that kids come dressed in their favorite dancing attire.

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