1. Jump in. There are no special courses to take before you become qualified to host a playgroup. It's really just a chance for kids to play and parents to chat. So, start by inviting people to your home. If everyone interacts well and enjoys themselves, invite them back – plus invite anyone else that you (or they) might know! The first few playgroup sessions do not have to be labeled a playgroup – they can just be your way of 'testing the water' to see if you think the group will work. Usually, after two or so sessions, people will volunteer to rotate the play session at their home, and before you know it, you have a 'playgroup'!



2. Be organized! This should be obvious, but a lot of playgroups fail to keep up their momentum because no one volunteers to be the central liaison person for the group. This causes confusion and frustration and is the fastest way for dissatisfied playgroup members to give up on the whole playgroup concept. Volunteer to coordinate the playgroup calendar and be sure to communicate clearly each week with the group members (for example, via phone or email).



3. Watch your kids. Whilst you might be desperate for some adult conversation, particularly after a tiresome overseas move and perhaps a period of feeling 'trapped' in your new home, remember that at all times, you are responsible for your own children – so watch their behavior, help them adjust to the new 'scene', encourage them to play, share and have fun – and be quick to intervene if you think their behavior is about to upset other children/parents.



4. Stop and think. Before your guests arrive at your home, take time out to think through the area that everyone will be in: is it safe?; are there expensive items that you want to hide?; and are household pets going to cause allergic reactions to your guests, if they are not temporarily housed in other rooms?. Then think through the food. For example, do not serve peanut-laden foods when it's known that peanut allergies are common; do not serve yoghurts unless you want them sprawled all over your carpets; and do not serve all sweet foods – unless of course you want yours and everyone else's kids hanging from the rafters when playgroup finishes and the kids are supposed to be winding down for their bath. Go for safe options like sandwiches, fruits and biscuits – these three are typically the staples of any playgroup.




5. Have fun! Above all else, playgroups are one way for you to keep your kids busy and happy – at least for an hour or two. So do not take things too seriously – get down on the ground and finger-paint with your kids – hop on the swings if your child needs a swing partner. Most parents are adapt at cutting in and out of adult conversations, in an effort to appease their young ones – so once the people arrive and the food is on the table – just have fun!

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