From Need to Action: Building Better Playgroup Support
When the Martha’s Vineyard Family Center asked for help strengthening their playgroups, our Family Support Team saw both a challenge and an opportunity. While there are countless resources designed for parents who attend playgroups, there is little guidance available for the people leading them. Facilitators often had to piece together their approach on their own, without a clear framework for best practices. We decided to change that.
Our team spent several months researching different models and connecting with colleagues across the country and even abroad. We learned from and trained with First 5 Ventura County in California, Playgroup Victoria in Australia, and Thriving Wisconsin.
Using this research, a two-day workshop was designed focusing on key elements of successful playgroups. The workshop emphasizes that playgroups are not casual drop-ins. They are structured, intentional spaces where children and caregivers can learn, play, and build positive relationships together. Facilitators are central to this process. They not only guide activities but also support caregiver connection, confidence, and leadership.
“Playgroups are not just for children, they also help parents and caregivers, particularly those who may be new to a community or facing challenges, find a place to connect and feel supported, during the important early years.”
Kate Bullock, Family Support Coordinator at the Children’s Trust
The first workshop launched virtually in April 2024 with the Martha’s Vineyard Family Center team. Since then, Kate has facilitated seven workshops, both in person and online, reaching nearly 70 participants. Each training offers clear recommendations on group size, staffing, scheduling, and structure, and stresses the importance of welcoming families, establishing routines, setting agreements, and gathering feedback to measure impact.
The benefits of well-run playgroups are significant. For children, they foster brain development, language growth, motor skills, and social-emotional learning. For caregivers, they reduce isolation, encourage positive parenting, increase access to resources, and strengthen community bonds.
“I learned things I would like to add, for example, policy & agreements, 8-week sessions. So many more families can attend [playgroups] instead of the same family for the whole year and talk to other playgroup facilitators to share ideas.”
Workshop Participant
As Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman has said, “investment in early childhood development is the most effective investment in the economy.” The Children’s Trust’s work ensures that playgroups are recognized as part of that investment, creating meaningful benefits for families and communities alike.