At ACC we offer a number of great things for young families.

On Mondays we have a Czech and Slovak Playgroup. So … if you have a Czech or Slovak background (or know a young family who does) you might like to think about joining/recommending this playgroup - a fun and friendly group of families that come along each week to share language, lunch and life. Find our more and join up here.

Lego Club is an after school activity for primary school aged children running on Mondays again this year. Cat runs this fabulous structured program that has a clear focus each week, such as building a bridge or a house. She brings along the right Lego for the project and documents the wonderful creations for each child - so that even though the hard work is sadly dismantled, it can be remembered for ever! If you have a child who loves Lego this could be just the program you are looking for. Email Cat at learnitprograms@gmail.com to find out more.

On Tuesday mornings we offer a MyTime Peer Support Playgroup. This playgroup is led by the very kind-hearted, generous and caring Sue Lenzi, who is a social worker and counsellor. It is linked in with Downs Syndrome Victoria, and any and all families are welcome to attend, but it is particularly great for families needing extra support, as Sue is there for a regular chat and can help you along the way with whatever you need. It is ideal for parents with post natal depression, families with English as a second language, families that are managing young children with disabilities etc. To facilitate conversational opportunities with Sue this playgroup has the extra assistance of Gianna, who is the playgroup assistant. She sets out activities and keeps the kids occupied. Sounds like something you (or someone you know) could be interested in? Find out more and/or book in here.

On Wednesdays this year we are opening up our yard for casual drop in community Playtime in the Garden from 10am-12pm. Families are invited to come along by themselves or with friends and use our sandpit and mud kitchen etc. As we progress and get more organised we’ll have some weekly activities out for families to help themselves to. Grab a coffee next door and make the most of our secure play spaces (note we are in the middle or renovating our front garden, but we’re expecting it to be open and fully operational early March) or sit out on the corner and keep your kids entertained with our chalk drawing box.

And then we have our Toy Library open at the same time as Playtime in the Garden. So you can pop in and borrow toys. Note we’re just in the process of rejigging this service, and thinking of putting together some packs that can be reserved online. We’ll keep you updated on how this pans out.

On Thursdays the very lovely Maimi hosts 2 wonderful Japanese Kilin Playgroups. These playgroups are (as the name suggests) run in Japanese and are quite structured with songs, books, written exercises, cooking and activities for children. From the office it looks and sounds like the kids have a great time! If you are keen to find out more email maimiclass@gmail.com.

And … we’re open to more ideas. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you are part of a playgroup needing a new home, or if you are looking for a place to run after-school kids activities. We’re always keen on building the services we offer the young families in our community!