We speak to the experts about the benefits of tiny people joining a playgroup, and here’s what they had to say...
Keeping up with a tot who is crawling, stumbling and into all shades of mischief is hard work for sure, so if you’re running out of activity ideas to keep them busy, it could well be time to bring in some help… playgroup! Not only will bubs be kept busy and entertained, but it’s also the perfect opp for mum to meet new friends and engaging in something a little more fun than playing peek-a-boo at home for the
millionth time. For everyone’s sanity (especially yours), perhaps it’s time to consider joining a playgroup
We’ve been catching up with the good folks at Learning Vision to get the lowdown on whether joining a playgroup with bubbas younger than 18 months is a good idea. And these friendly experts certainly know their stuff: they’ve been hanging out with tots from two months to six years for over 29 years! That’s a whole lotta play and a whole lotta kids! Here’s what they had to say:
Can babies really benefit from playgroups?
We may not realise it but babies learn and grow super duper fast. That’s why it’s important they get a strong start in life. A playgroup does just that – it encourages babies to communicate, discover the sights and sounds of the world around them and learn through exploration and play all under the watchful eyes of trained and certified educarers. Also, it’s a great way for babies to try new activities (because we could all do with a break from peek-a-boo!). While it may seem like they’re just playing and having fun, they’re also developing their language skills, as well as their cognitive and social-emotional abilities. Pretty cool, right?
At such a young age, can a baby really learn concepts? And do they actually socialise?
Don’t underestimate the learning potential of babies. They may not possess the knowledge and cognitive abilities adults and older children do, but they are starting to build their own little foundation for knowledge, concepts, beliefs and emotions. For example, through their relationship with their caregivers, they learn trust and how to build emotional security. This also develops their social skills such as communication, interaction, and body language.
Can mums benefit from playgroups too?
When you’re cooped up at home with baby all day, it may be tough to find time to connect with other mums. Mums need friends too, and playgroups are a great way to socialise. You’ll find someone going through the exact same no-sleeping phase as you or someone who’s having trouble breastfeeding, and trust us, it feels great to let it out and find a buddy to join you in the great adventure of parenthood: the highs, the lows, the trial and the tribulations. A problem shared is indeed a problem halved.
HoneyKids Baby Playgroup
Think your little one is ready to play? Why not join our new fun-packed HoneyKids Baby Playgroup? It’s a brand new FREE event series we’ve cooked up with the lovely people from Learning Vision, and the awesome sessions will be happening at their state-of-the-art digs, at a location near you.
SATURDAY 3 NOVEMBER, 9.30am to 12pm
Central location: 100G Pasir Panjang Rd, Interlocal Centre, #01-08, 118523
West location: Temasek Club, 131 Rifle Range Rd, #03-01, 588406
SATURDAY 17 NOVEMBER, 9.30am to 12pm
East location: Paya Lebar Lifelong Learning (CET) 11 Eunos Rd 8, #04-04, 408601
North location: The Grassroots’ Club, 190 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8, #03-02, 56804
RSVP at our online form today to snag yourself a spot!
This post is sponsored by Learning Vision.