Are you new in town, a new parent, or looking to make some new friends for your child or yourself? Joining a local playgroup in Lake Macquarie, Newcastle or the Hunter is a great place to start.
Playgroups are informal, friendly sessions where mums, dads, grandparents and caregivers meet with babies and young children. They give children a chance to learn through play while parents connect with other local families. Some are casual community groups, while others offer music, nature play or extra support for families. Most run during school terms and welcome new families.
Here is our suburb by suburb guide to playgroups in Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the Hunter to help you find one near you. Many are affiliated with Playgroup NSW and operate during school terms.
*** Be sure to contact the playgroup beforehand to confirm date, time and vacancies as information can change ***
If you’re involved in a playgroup that’s not on this list or have started a playgroup and are looking for new members, send us the details and we’ll add you to this list.
Playgroups by suburb
Adamstown
Samaritans Supported Adamstown Playgroup
Location: Adamstown Public School, Bryant Street
When: Mondays 9:30am during the school term
Samaritans CAPS is an early intervention and prevention program which focuses on building the bonds of attachment to enhance family function and increase community participation. All activities the service undertakes are planned and facilitated by skilled and qualified practitioners who understand the importance of play-based learning and child development, as well challenges families sometimes face. For all enquiries please email louise.cooper@samaritans.org.au. These playgroups are Free!
Mainly Music Adamstown Playgroup
Location: Belair Baptist Church, 130 Garden Grove Parade
When: Mondays & Fridays 9:45am during the school term
This is a fun, nurturing, music group for parents or primary care givers to enjoy together with their young child. The quality program helps develop physical skills, language, and creativity and gives families a chance to think about the God-part of life. Two groups operate on different days and a lovely morning tea follows each session. For further information, visit the Facebook page.
Anna Bay
Mainly Music Anna Bay Playgroup
Location: The Salvation Army, 14 Port Stephens Drive, Anna Bay
When: Wednesday
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Wednesday mornings during school terms. For more information, contact Angela on (02) 4982 0192.
Arcadia Vale
Arcadia Vale Mini Kookas Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 31A Glade Street, Arcadia Vale
When: Tuesday 9:30am
Before you visit the group, please email at arcadiavaleplaygroup@gmail.com an email we will respond with when to visit and what to expect. Playgroup doesn’t meet during school holidays. Arcadia Vale Facebook Group
Location: 31A Glade Street, Arcadia Vale
When: Tuesday 9:30am
Belmont
Belmont Christian College Community Playgroup
Location: Beginners Playground, Belmont Christian College, 65 John Fisher Road
When: Wednesday 9.30am –11.30am during term time
The Belmont Christian College Community Playgroup is is a relaxed and friendly group that meets each Wednesday during school term time. Bring a hat, morning tea and a drink bottle for your child. Morning tea is provided for adults. A $2 donation is appreciated. Drive through the main school gates and straight ahead towards the Beginners Playground. You can park in the carpark or on the oval carpark and proceed to the gate that connects the carpark with the Beginners Playground.
Belmont Bugalugs Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Belmont Neighbourhood Centre, 359 Pacific Highway
When: Tuesday 10am
This small group of families, which includes children from babies to 5 years, meets on Tuesdays at 9:45am. They have a good sized indoor play area with plenty of storage and toys and a good kitchen to make a cuppa. Entrance is on the side of the building. Playgroup does not meet in school holidays. Belmont Bugalugs Facebook Group
St Luke’s Uniting Church Playgroup
Location: St Luke’s Community Centre, Narla Road
When: Friday 10am to 12pm during school terms
This playgroup meets weekly during school terms. $3 per family. Visit the St Luke’s website for more information.
Belmont North
Mainly Music Belmont North Playgroup
Location: Eastlakes Salvation Army, 360 Pacific Highway
When: Monday 9:30am – 10:45am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Monday mornings during school terms. Morning tea is provided and costs $5 per family. For more information, contact Lauryn Hughes on 0431444970.
Bolton Point
Mainly Music Bolton Point Playgroup
Location: Norwest Lake Macquarie Salvation Army, 156 Bay Road
When: Wednesdays
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Wednesday mornings during school terms. Contact Kim on 0481 149 616.
Cameron Park
Cameron Park Mini Munchkins Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Cameron Park Community Centre, 107 North Lakes Drive
When: Monday at 10am
Cameron Park Mini Munchkins Playgroup offers a session on Mondays from 10am. There is a combination of mums, dads and grandparents who attend. The ages of the children who attend range from under 12 months to the year before they go to school. Cameron Park Community Centre is a great venue with a large room, lots of toys, outdoor play area for bike riding, craft and kitchen access. The room also comes with air con for the very hot days and cold days. To organise a visit, please email us at cpminimunchkins@outlook.com. Playgroup does not meet during school holidays. Cameron Park Mini Munchkins Facebook Group
Cardiff
Macquarie Care Playgroup
Location: Macquarie Life Church, Corner of Macquarie & Wentworth Roads
When: Tuesday 10am
Check out the amazing child-friendly facilities with a fully fenced yard, child-sized toilets, safety gates and covers on all doors. There’s also have off street parking and parent facilities. The group meets every Tuesday morning in school term from 10am to 12pm and costs $2 per family per week. See the Macquarie Care Playgroup Facebook page for more information.
Cardiff MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Macquarie Life Church, cnr Macquarie & Wentworths Rds
When: Friday 10am
MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition 0-18 years. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Caves Beach
Mainly Music Caves Beach Playgroup
Location: Swansea District Baptist Church, 15 Strathmore Road, Caves Beach
When: Thursday
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Thursday mornings during school terms. For more information, contact Sue on 0407 721 635.
Charlestown
Charlestown Little Lights Playgroup
Location: C3 Church Victory, Level 1, 5 Hopetoun Street
When: Friday 10am – 11:30am
Little Lights Playgroup is a playgroup for children aged 0-5 years old, and welcomes all parents, grandparents, and carers. They meet every Friday during school terms from 10am-11:30am in an area dedicated to children’s play. The morning is lightly structured with reading time, craft, food and free play. Bring morning tea for your children and enjoy a coffee when you arrive! Gold coin donation entry. For all enquiries please call 4922 6800, email littlelights@c3victory.org.au or visit their Facebook page.
Charlestown Sparklers Playgroup
Location: Charlestown Presbyterian Church, 16 Smart St
When: 9:30am – 11:30am during school term
Sparklers Playgroup meets at Charlestown each Thursday morning for children 0 to 5 years of age and their mums, dads or carers. Each week, they enjoy a variety of fun activities together such as painting, playdough, craft, stories, songs along with plenty of time for indoor and outdoor free play.
Mums, dads and carers enjoy quality time with their children doing these fun activities with them as well as having a cuppa and a good chat with other parents and carers. The cost is $3/child/week or $4/family/week.
Clarence Town
Mainly Music Clarence Town Playgroup
Location: Clarence Town Presbyterian Church, 29 Marshall Street, Clarence Town
When: Wednesday
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Wednesday mornings during school terms. For more information, contact Leisa on 0419 205 755.
Cooks Hill
St John’s Playgroup
Location: St John’s Church, 107 Dawson Street
When: Wednesdays from 10am-12noon
St John’s Playgroup is a relaxed and informal Newcastle Playgroup where families can play, sing, do crafts and have fun together. The playgroup meets in the beautiful leafy grounds of St John’s Church, Cooks Hill. They have use of the church hall, an outside patio, and the grass lawn, which means they can welcome your family whatever the weather! Parents and carers often help out by bringing along some morning tea for the adults to share or organising a craft activity. Cost is only $5 per family and we ask families to bring along a piece of fruit that can be part of a fruit platter for the children. For more information, please email admin@saintjohns.com.au.
Cooranbong
AMC Fun4Kids Playgroup
Location: Avondale Memorial SDA Church, 584-586 Freemans Drive, Cooranbong
When: Wednesdays 9:30am to 11:30am (during school terms)
This playgroup features a different theme each week to explore with craft to make and music activities. Snacks and drinks provided for the adults to enjoy some conversation! A gold coin donation is appreciated. For more information, contact Rachel on 0427869313.
Edgeworth
Edgeworth Community Playgroup
Location: Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre, 1 Minmi Road Edgeworth
When: Wednesdays 9.30am – 11am
Edgeworth Community Playgroup is held on Wednesdays from 9:30am to 11am and is open to parents, carers and grandparents for children 0 5 years old. The playgroup is run by the parents and we provide the equipment, large hall as well as a community garden to explore. BYO drink & snacks, tea & coffee will be provided. By EMNC offering this space and equipment, we hope to learn together & grow the Playgroup community – creating new friendships, for our children as well as the parents. Enquiries call Liam on 40721000 or email to community@emnc.org.au
Fennell Bay
Narunbah Schools as Community Centre (SaCC)
Playgroup provides engaging activities where parents and children have the opportunity to leave and grow in a safe, nurturing environment. These playgroups are always welcoming new families. All groups are free and a healthy morning tea is provided for the Monday, Wednesday & Friday groups.
Location: Fennell Bay Public School, Bay Road
When: A range of playgroups during school terms:
- Monday 9.30am – 11.30am – children 0-5 years
- Tuesday 9.30am – 11am- babies 12 months and younger
- Wednesday 9.30am – 11.30am – children 0-5
- Friday 9.30am – 11.30am -Young Parent Playgroup parents 24 years and younger
Fletcher
Fletcher Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 55 Kurraka Drive, Fletcher
When: Monday 10am
Fletcher Playgroup runs during school terms only. Before you visit the group, please click on “Make an Enquiry” on the Playgroup NSW website to send an email to the Coordinator of the group. They will then respond with when to visit and what to expect. Check the Facebook page for more information.
Fletcher Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 55 Kurraka Drive, Fletcher
When: Wednesday 9:30am – 12pm during school term
This is a fun, nurturing, music group for parents or primary care givers to enjoy together with their young child aged up to 5 years. The quality program helps develop physical skills, language, and creativity and gives families a chance to think about the God-part of life. Followed by a beautiful morning tea. $5 per family. For more details, email beck@foundry.org.au.
Garden Suburb
Garden Suburb Jumping Jellybeans Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Garden Suburb Community Hall, 2A Prospect Rd
When: Tuesday 9:30am
Garden Suburb Jumping Jellybeans welcomes all parents and carers with children up to 6 years. The hall has a large play area indoors with a kitchen and a small grassed area used for outdoor play. Please send us an email before attending. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info or see Garden Suburb Jumping Jellybeans Facebook Group.
Gateshead
Samaritans Supported Wiripaang Playgroup
Location: Wiripaang Public School, 2A Pacific Highway
When: Mondays 9:30am during the school term
Samaritans CAPS is an early intervention and prevention program which focuses on building the bonds of attachment to enhance family function and increase community participation. All activities the service undertakes are planned and facilitated by skilled and qualified practitioners who understand the importance of play-based learning and child development, as well challenges families sometimes face. Meeting school terms. For all enquiries please email louise.cooper@samaritans.org.au
Gillieston Heights
Gillieston Heights Playgroup
Location: Gillieston Heights Community Hub, Redwood Drive & Pines Street
When: Wednesday at 10am
Please contact us via email playgroupgilliestonheights@gmail.com before attending to find out what to expect and when to visit.
Glendale
Gecko Playgroup
Location: Grace Evangelical Church, 344-348 Lake Road, Glendale
When: Wednesday 10am -11:30am
Gecko Playgroup is a church-run playgroup for all children aged 0-5 years, providing a safe and fun place for children to enjoy free-play, craft, story time and morning tea, while parents and grandparents can relax with others over a cuppa. They ask that each family contributes $5 per week (towards craft and activities), as well as a piece of fruit per child to share at morning tea time. Once a term they also enjoy a group outing (somewhere local and at minimal to no cost). For more information, contact Alex on 0466834646, email playgroup@graceev.org, visit their website or Facebook page
Glendale Garden Elves (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Steiner House, 40 Reservoir Road, Glendale
When: Tuesday & Thursday 9:30am
This Playgroup is currently full and is only accepting new members through the waitlist. To join the waitlist please go to https://steinerplaygroup.weebly.com/ The playgroup is based on the indications of Rudolf Steiner. They endeavour to engage the will of the young children in a positive way and be good examples for them to imitate. Morning activities follow a rhythm of breathing in – breadmaking, singing, story and breathing out – shared morning tea and free play.
Greta
Greta Branxton Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 1 Water Street, Greta
When: Monday 9:30am
Greta Branxton Playgroup meets Mondays from 9.30am – 11.30am through school terms. They recommend that you contact their Playgroup to organise to visit a session with your child(ren). Their Playgroup coordinator can provide you with a general idea of how the playgroup works, the ages of children attending, session fees, etc. Visit the Greta Branxton Playgroup Facebook page or Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Hamilton
Hamilton Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Scots Kirk Presbyterian Church, 9 Tudor Street, Hamilton
When: Thursday at 9:30am
Mainly Music Hamilton Playgroup
Location: 67 Cleary Street, Hamilton
When: Tuesday 10am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Tuesday mornings during school terms. Morning tea is provided and costs $7.50 for one child and $10 for 2 or more children. For more information, contact Amanda Walker on 0431534253 or visit their website.
Islington
Islington Baptist Church Playgroup
Location: Islington Baptist Church, 180 Maitland Road
When: Thursday 9:45am
There is fun and adventure for you to share with your child at IBCPlaytime. Exciting, fully enclosed play spaces engage young minds and hands, with weekly interest activities and regular music and story times. Find encouragement and friendship every Thursday during school terms, 9.45am to 11.45am at 180 Maitland Road, Islington. Contact Marion on 0429 411 704 or visit the Islington Baptist Church Playgroup Facebook page to get up-to-date details on the activities and cost, also so you can arrive connected with someone right from the start. They welcome all in the Islington and wider Newcastle community who care for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
Jesmond
KU Newcastle Supported Playgroup – Jesmond
Location: Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre, 44 Mordue Parade, Jesmond
When: Tuesday & Wednesday 10am – 12pm
KU has a long history of delivering high quality supported playgroups across the Newcastle Region. They deliver targeted wellbeing and safety activities that support the needs of families and their young children. Supported playgroups are for parents with children between 0 – 5 years. Visit the KU website for more information.
Jewells
Play and Grow Playgroup
Location: At New Vine Beaches Church Hall cnr Ntaba Rd and Dalrymple St, Jewells
When: Mondays during school term time 10am till noon.
Kids from 0 to 6 with parents, grandparents and carers are welcome at Play and Grow Playgroup. The cost is $2 per family. They have a fun lightly structured morning with outside play, playdough, craft, painting, singing and inside play with toys.The play area is child proof fenced. A cuppa and snack for the mums/carers is provided. Please bring morning tea for your child. Parents are welcome to come later and leave earlier if needed. Contact Merise on 0413886796 for more details.
Kahibah
Kahibah Kids Playgroup
Kahibah Kids Play Group is a fun gathering for parents, carers and children aged 0-5. The facilitator Lorraine Pearce-Adams is an educator who uses her training and gifts to create a fun and interactive experience for all. Costs are $5 per family. For more information, visit the Glenrock Anglican website.
Location: Glenrock Anglican, 36 Hexham Street
When: Monday 9.15am – 11.30am during school term
Kotara
Mainly Music Kotara Playgroup
Location: Church of the Good Shepherd Anglican Church, 101 Joslin Street, Kotara
When: Friday 9:30am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Friday mornings during school terms (except the last). The session consists of a music group followed by a delicious, provided, morning tea and a playgroup. It provides an opportunity to have a cuppa and meet other families. It costs $5 per family with the first visit free! For more information contact Anne on 02 4943 5651.
Kotara South
St James Kotara South Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: St James Primary School Hall, 30 Vista Parade
When: Friday 9:00am
St James Playgroup welcomes all parents and carers with children up to 6 years (whether you are continuing on to St James Primary school or not). The hall has a large indoor play area with lots of options for play! New members are welcome to come along to a session. We ask that you email before coming for your first time, as we share the space with the school and sometimes the school requires use of the hall instead. Playgroup operates during term time only. For all enquiries email us at StJamesPlaygroupKotaraSouth@hotmail.com
Kurri Kurri
Kurri Kurri Samaritans CAPS Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Various locations in Kurri Kurri
When: Thursday 9:30am
Samaritans CAPS is an early intervention and prevention program which focuses on building the bonds of attachment to enhance family function and increase community participation. All activities the service undertakes are planned and facilitated by skilled and qualified practitioners who understand the importance of play-based learning and child development, as well challenges families sometimes face. These playgroups are free! Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Play Strong Kurri Kurri (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Kurri Kurri Centre, 131 Northcote Street
When: Wednesday and Friday 10:00am
Play Strong groups are supported playgroups that support parents to engage with early learning services. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Lakelands
Lakelands Puddleducks Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Lakelands Community Hall, 135 Ambleside Circuit, Lakelands
When: Tuesday 10am
This playgroup has children 0-6yrs. All welcome. Playgroup does not meet during school holidays. Lakelands Puddleducks Playgroup Facebook.
Maitland
Early Links PlayConnect+ (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Maitland Presbyterian Church, 3 Church Street
When: Thursday 9:15am
PlayConnect+ playgroups provide inclusive play opportunities to all children with disability and/or developmental concerns to participate, engage, and enjoy themselves in a safe and engaging environment.Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Maryland
KU Newcastle Supported Playgroup – Maryland
Location: Maryland Public School, 51 John T Bell Drive
When: Monday 9am – 11am
KU has a long history of delivering high quality supported playgroups across the Newcastle Region. They deliver targeted wellbeing and safety activities that support the needs of families and their young children. Supported playgroups are for parents with children between 0 – 5 years. Visit the KU website for more information.
Maryland Building Tots Early Childhood Development Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 207 Maryland Drive, Maryland
When: Tuesday 9:30am
For children who are not currently accessing any early childhood education. They aim to support the child and family’s transition into a suitable EC placement. They are continuing to provide virtual playgroups and offer other transition to school services to families. All playgroups run weekly during school terms. Funded by the Department of Education. All playgroups run weekly during school terms. Please call 8977 8341 for further information.
Medowie
Medowie Tigers Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Medowie Community Centre, 44 Ferodale Road
When: Tuesday 9:30am
Medowie Tigers are welcoming new families. They have a large open indoor space with kitchen facilities to make tea and coffee. Outdoors there is a covered area and a sandpit. They have lots of toys for a range of ages of children including baby mats, a reading corner & dress ups. This is a relaxed playgroup that runs from 9:30am to 11:30am in the Community Centre. Session Fee of $4 a week or a term fee of $35, this contributes towards the rent and new toys/equipment. Ask to join the closed Facebook group or for more information about this playgroup email medowietigers@hotmail.com.
Medowie Nature Play (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Pioneer Ridge Estate, 142 Kindlebark Drive
When: Thursday 9am
Meeting on Thursdays, we provide holistic nature-based play sessions that foster connection, nurturing and community. We encourage free play and intuitive engagement with nature, children are provided with the opportunity for sand and water sensory play, mud kitchen play, storytelling, nurturing the gardens and craft activities.
To come along to Medowie Nature play, you need to book. Our spaces are limited. You can book through our Facebook group.
Metford
Metford Community Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Metford Community Hall, Corner Ingall & Lowe Street
When: Wednesday 10:00am
Please see their Facebook page for latest updates and adventures or call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info and to organise a visit. They do not meet during school holidays.
Morisset
Heritage College Lake Macquarie Playgroup
Location: Heritage College, 85 Ironbark Road
When: Every second Thursday in school term at 9:30am
Heritage Playgoup provides a wonderful opportunity for you and your child to become familiar with the school setting and community. This free playgroup is a time for friendships to develop and an ideal setting for children to learn through play. Join the private Heritage College Lake Macquarie Playgroup Facebook group.
Newcastle
Cathedral Mainly Music Playgroup
Location: Christ Church Cathedral, 52 Church Street, Newcastle
When: Thursday 10am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Thursday mornings during school terms. Morning tea is provided and costs $5 per family. For more information contact Siobhan on 0434257635 or visit their website.
New Lambton
New Lambton Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Uniting Church-New Lambton, 48 Regent Street
When: Wednesday 9:30am
The playgroup meets every Wednesday during school terms. They have lots of toys and space indoors and outdoors so can always welcome new families to our group. Please drop in and the friendly committee will show you around. Only $5 per session (first 2 free) or $40 for the whole school term. They organise craft or other activities e.g. bubbles, ball games, bathing the baby dolls every week and also have music time each week at 11:15 to close the session. Lots of fun for the kids and parents/carers alike! Please email newlambtonplaygroup@gmail.com.
Mainly Music New Lambton Playgroup
Location: New Lambton Anglican Hall, Cnr Cromwell St & Oxford St, New Lambton
When: Wednesday 9:30am
This is a fun, nurturing, music group for parents or primary care givers to enjoy together with their young child. The quality program helps develop physical skills, language, and creativity and gives families a chance to think about the God-part of life. Two groups operate on different days and a lovely morning tea follows each session. Waiting list operational. For further information contact Beck Bishop on 0416 149 633 or email beck@anew.org.au.
Raymond Terrace
Raymond Terrace MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Irrawang Public School SACCs, 11 Roslyn Street
When: Thursday 9:30am
MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition 0-18 years. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Rutherford
Play Strong Maitland Neighbourhood Centre (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Rutherford Community Centre, Arthur Street
When: Tuesday (General) & Wednesday (Playstrong) 10am
Play Strong groups are supported playgroups that support parents to engage with early learning services. Please email ps.maitland.nhcentre@playgroupnsw.org.au to register your interest.
Shortland
KU Newcastle Supported Playgroup – Shortland
Location: Shortland Public School, 360 Sandgate Road, Shortland
When: Thursday 9am – 11am
KU has a long history of delivering high quality supported playgroups across the Newcastle Region. They deliver targeted wellbeing and safety activities that support the needs of families and their young children. Supported playgroups are for parents with children between 0 – 5 years. Visit the KU website for more information.
Singleton
Mainly Music Singleton Heights Playgroup
Location: Singleton Baptist Church, Cnr Gardner Circuit & Bridgman Road, Singleton Heights
When: Friday
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Friday mornings during school terms. For more information contact Aimee on 0402 588 096 or email mainlymusicsingleton@gmail.com.
Stockton
Mainly Music Stockton Playgroup
Location: St Paul’s Anglican Church, 34a Maitland Street, Stockton
When: Thursday 9:30am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Thursday mornings during school terms. Morning tea is provided and costs $5 per family. For more information contact Alison on 0427 263 345 or visit their website.
Swansea
The Cottage Supported Playgroup
Location: Swansea Community Cottage, Swansea Centre, 228-234 Pacific Highway, Swansea
When: Wednesday & Friday 10-12pm
Each Wednesday and Friday during School Terms only at The Cottage in Ocean Room 1 for children aged 0 to 6 years of age, not enrolled at school. Cost is $2 a session. Please bring along a good food item to share for morning tea. Come and enjoy the fantastic new kids play equipment!
Tenambit
Tenambit Tiny Tikes
Location: Tenambit Community Hall, cnr Tyrell & Kenneth St, Tenambit
When: Thursday 10am to 11:30am on selected dates
Supported Playgroup for families with a child 0-6 years. The group is free and is based on the evidence- based Smalltalk Supported Playgroup model developed by the Parenting Research Centre. Contact: Patience on 49140444
Thornton
Play Strong Thornton (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 28 Government Road, Thornton
When: Monday 10:00am
Play Strong groups are supported playgroups that support parents to engage with early learning services. For all enquires please email ps.thornton@playgroupnsw.org.au.
Thornton Little Rascals (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Thornton Pat Hughes Community Hall, Taylor Avenue
When: Wednesday 9:30am
Running in the local community for 35 years. Wednesdays during school terms. Ages newborn to 6. Fees per family: Free for your first week. $4 ever week after. No need to book in, just turn up and have fun! Visit their Facebook page for more info or email: thorntonlittlerascals@hotmail.com.
Toronto
Mainly Music Toronto Playgroup
Location: Toronto Baptist Church, 186-192 The Boulevard
When: Wednesday 9:45am
Mainly Music is a fun music group for parents or primary caregivers to enjoy together with their young children from 0 – 5 years old on Wednesday mornings during school terms. For more information contact Heather on 02 4950 4058 or visit their website.
Valentine
Valentine Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Valentine Progress Hall, 20 Allambee Place
When: Wednesday 10am
Valentine Playgroup meets Wednesdays at 10am to 12pm at Valentine Community Hall. Children from 0 to 6 are welcome to come along with their parents, grandparents, caregiver etc. They aim to provide a fun, friendly and safe environment for children to build positive friendship’s, play, craft and other activities. Ask to join the closed Facebook page if you want to connect with us. Visit the Valentine Playgroup Facebook page or email valentineplaygrouplakemaq@gmail.com.
Wangi Wangi
Perry’s Wangi Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Wangi Wangi Public School Hall, Beach Road
When: Monday 9:45am
Wangi First Playgroup is a small but lovely friendly group of mothers. Playgroup meets in the school hall on Mondays at 9:45 to 11:45am. They have a great indoor space with lots of toys and storage, and an outdoor gym area for the active children. Message the Perry’s Playgroup Wangi Facebook page to confirm your interest in attending.
Warners Bay
Warners Bay Wombats (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Milestones Early Learning Warners Bay, 270 Hillsborough Rd
When: Monday 10:30am
This playgroup meets at Milestones Early Learning Centre Warners Bay, you do not have to be attending this centre to attend. See their Facebook group for more information.
Warners Bay Baptist Church Playtime
Location: Warners Bay Baptist Church, 64 Queen Street, Warners Bay
When: Wednesday 10:00am
This is a great morning for parents and children from 0-5 years to come along to. Playtime runs during school terms. They meet in the Ministry Centre which is next to the church. It is a great time for parents to get together and encourage each other in the joys and challenges of parenting. The morning is organised and activities can include story-time, singing, games, puzzles, craft, painting, play-dough and outdoor play in a safe, enclosed area. For further information contact the church office on 4947 4326 or via email at warnersbaybaptist@gmail.com.
West Wallsend
Awakabal Playgroup
Come along for a yarn and a cuppa. Their play space is set up for you and your family to enjoy with the support of their team. The neighbourhood centre provide a range of activities for you and your jarjums in a space that supports First Nation Culture. Morning tea. Transport available. Contact Dion on 0409560559.
Location: Sugar Valley Neighbourhood Centre, 65 Carrington Street
When: Every Tuesday 10:15am – 11:45am
Whitebridge
Whitebridge Kindymates Community Playgroup
Location: Whitebridge Church of Christ Hall, 1 Foxdale Avenue, Whitebridge
When: Monday during school term from 10am till noon
Kids from 0 to 6 with parents, grandparents and carers are welcome at Whitebridge Kindymates Community Playgroup. The cost is $2 per family.They have a fun lightly structured morning with outside play, play dough, craft, painting, singing and inside play with toys. A cuppa for the mums/carers is provided. Please bring morning tea for your child. Contact Merise on 0413886796 for more details.
Windale
Milabah Schools as Community Centre (SaCC)
Location: Windale Public School, Kilfera Street
When: Tuesday 9.30am – 11.30am or Wednesday 9.30am – 11.30am
There are 2 playgroups across the week during school terms. Both playgroups are welcoming new members. The sessions are free and a healthy morning tea is provided. Any enquiries can be directed to Allison on 4948 7786 or 0400 344 032.
Windale Samaritans CAPS
Location: 29 Cherry Street, Windale
When: Wednesday at 9:30am
Samaritans CAPS is an early intervention and prevention program which focuses on building the bonds of attachment to enhance family function and increase community participation. All activities the service undertakes are planned and facilitated by skilled and qualified practitioners who understand the importance of play-based learning and child development, as well challenges families sometimes face. These playgroups are free.
Windale MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 8 Kilfera Street, Windale,
When: Friday 10am – 12noon during school terms
MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition 0-18 years. The MyTime program is welcoming new members. Children’s activities are provided for children under school age. The program is free and morning tea is provided. Any enquiries can be directed to Allison on 4948 7786 or 0400 344 032.
Woodberry
Woodberry MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Woodberry Public School, Lawson Avenue
When: Tuesday 10:00am
MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition 0-18 years. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Woodrising
Samaritans Supported Woodrising Playgroup
Location: Woodrising Neighbourhood Centre, 80 Hayden Brook Road
When: Thursday 9:30am
Samaritans CAPS is an early intervention and prevention program which focuses on building the bonds of attachment to enhance family function and increase community participation. All activities the service undertakes are planned and facilitated by skilled and qualified practitioners who understand the importance of play-based learning and child development, as well challenges families sometimes face. Meeting school terms. For all enquiries please email louise.cooper@samaritans.org.au. These playgroups are Free!
Special Interest Playgroups
Estonians in Newcastle Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 275 Beaumont Street, Hamilton South
When: Sunday 9:30am
Playgroup for families who speak Estonian and wish to keep the Estonian culture and language alive. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Play Strong Muloobinba Aboriginal Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Elermore Vale Community Centre, 129 Croudace Road
When: Thursday 11:00am
This is an Aboriginal Playgroup welcoming all parents & carers with indigenous children. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Japanese Playgroup (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Hunter Christian Church, 20A Hillcrest Parade, Highfields
When: Tuesday 10:30am
This is a Japanese Playgroup. Members speak Japanese and come from all over the Newcastle area. Ask to join the private Japanese Playgroup Facebook group before you visit the group. Please click on “Make an Enquiry” to send an email to the Coordinator of the group. They will then respond with when to visit and what to expect. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Wallsend Russian-Speaking Teremok (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church Hall, 3 Irving Street, Wallsend
When: Tuesday 10am
This playgroup is a warm, welcoming and friendly space for parents and children speaking and learning Russian language. They meet every Tuesday of school term at the church hall. The playgroup also runs one session per term open for all at the Wallsend library. Details on the Newcastle Libraries website
Spanish Playgroup
Location: Gregson Park or for wet weather Oasis Cafe (67 Cleary Street, Hamilton)
When: Alternate Tuesdays 10am – 12pm
This is a Spanish playgroup welcoming parents and carers and their kids. All ages are welcome. Alternate Tuesdays (10-12) to Spanish Rhyme Time held in the library during term time. Contact Ana 0447 277 433 for more information.
MyTime Playgroups
MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition 0-18 years. Call Playgroups NSW 1800 171 882 for more info.
Cardiff MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Macquarie Life Church, cnr Macquarie & Wentworths Rds
When: Friday 10am
Raymond Terrace MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Irrawang Public School SACCs, 11 Roslyn Street
When: Thursday 9:30am
Windale MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: 8 Kilfera Street
When: Friday 10am
Woodberry MyTime (NSW Playgroup member)
Location: Woodberry Public School, Lawson Avenue
When: Tuesday 10:00am
Young Parents
Young Parents Group at Narunbah Schools as Community Centre
Location: Fennell Bay Public School
When: Fridays 9:30am – 11:30am
Join a safe community for young parents (24 years and younger) and your children. Build important connections & networks, learn new skills and have fun with other young families. Morning tea provided. Activities are offered each week and the group is FREE to attend. Contact 02 4959 6140 for more information or find them on Facebook @Narunbah
Do you have an edit or addition to the Playgroups list? Email Newy with Kids with the details.
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