Recently, there have been a number of public forums and media stories about children, play and nature.

Playgroup WA would like to know what our members' views are on the issue, so we'd appreciate you taking part in our online survey.

On completion, participants will go into the draw to win 1 of 5 prize packs, with a total value of $450. Plus, the first 100 people to complete the survey will receive a set of 4 Tupperware “Madagascar” Snack Cups!

Click on the link to go to the survey.

The survey will close at the end of day on Friday 24th September.

Kalamunda Kids Expo - Friday 10 September
Come and visit us at the Kalamunda Kids Expo next Friday September 10. Showcasing services, activities and local businesses catering for 0-5 year olds and their families in the Shire of Kalamunda.

Entry is FREE and displays include Ngala, Child Health Nurses, Shire of Kalamunda, Child Care Centres, Kindy Programs, Dance and Music Programs, Giveaways, Samples and lots more!

Hartfield Park Recreation Centre Hale Road, Forrestfield 9am - 12 noon

Regional Events
Open Arms: Providing a Supportive Environment at Playgroup – Raising Awareness of Post Natal Depression Workshop Bunbury
When: Tuesday 14th September, 2010
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Where: Bunbury Community Health Service, Hudson Road, Bunbury
Cost: Free
Limited Creche Available: Free
RSVP: By 7th September to workshops@playgroupwa.com.au or our Hotline 1800 171 882

Geraldton Play Day
Where: Maitland Park
Crn Maitland St & Cathedral Ave, Geraldton
When: Monday 20 September 2010
Time: 10.00am - 12.00noon
Cost: FREE

Northampton Play Day
Where: Northampton Child Health Centre
Stephen Street, Northampton
When: Thursday 23 September 2010
Time: 10.00am - 12.00noon
Cost: FREE

So bring your snacks and join us for a morning of fun, playgroup advice, activity ideas and more!

While you can just turn up on the day, we'd love to get a feel for numbers so where possible please register your interest in attending by calling our Hotline on 1800 171 882

Expressions of Interest - Playgroup Support Workers
Playgroup WA is currently seeking expressions of interest for Playgroup Support Workers within various supported playgroups. 

Summary of the position

• Various part-time positions (4 hours per week/playgroup) delivering developmentally and culturally appropriate playgroup services to families participating in supported playgroups.
• Supporting the activities of playgroups and families attending the playgroup, including supporting and strengthening parent/caregiver roles and contributing to the development and well-being of families with young children.

If you would like more information about the positions please contact 1800 171 882 or email Chris.

Penistone Playgroup Receives $15K Lotteries Grant
Penistone Playgroup have just received a $15K Lotteries Grant to buy new toys and provide resources and structure required to conduct a playgroup. A variety of toys were purchased for all ages, which will see the children benefit from being physically and mentally involved in play and learning the social skills required to interact in a group setting.

Penistone is a small playgroup and currently looking for new members. If you or a group are interested please call Trisha Burgess (President) on 0400 582 600.

Playgroup Vacancies
Mandurah Playgroup is currently looking for new members. If you would like to join one of their friendly sessions or start your own session please contact Gayle on 0429 109 155.

La Casa dei Bambini Montessori Playgroup, located at Claremont Primary School, currently has vacancies available. Sessions operate Monday - Thursday from 9.15am - 11.30am for children aged 18 months to 4 years. If you are looking to introduce your child to a Montessori education where the emphasis is on children doing for themselves, then please contact the Enrolments Officer at joinlcdb@gmail.com.

Early Years Activities money (EYAM) is available for activities of up to/under $2,000 per activity. Numerous small activities by a diverse range of communities of interest across regions are strongly encouraged.

EYAM can be used to support activities, ideas and projects that will help build up local knowledge and capacity around those Early Years priorities.

Community groups, communities of interest and organisations who are interested in undertaking early years activities can apply for EYAM. Indigenous and culturally and linguistically diverse groups are strongly encouraged to participate.

Funds may be used for engaging community members, particularly those who are more socially isolated, increasing community awareness and understanding of the importance of the early years.

For more information on EYAM Money please contact the Department for Communities Parenting Line on 6279 1200.

Turn over your Playgroup WA membership card and register your Australian Baby Card. Australian Baby Card provides Playgroup Members with discounts and special offers all across Australia.

To register your card click here.

Sunday is Father's Day - a wonderful time to celebrate dads, granddads, uncles, male caregivers and ALL men who play a significant role in your child's life.

To all of the playgroup dads out there - HAPPY FATHER'S DAY - and we hope you enjoy a wonderful day whatever your family has planned (hopefully lots of hugs, walks, park visits and more).

However we wish to stress that dads (and all men involved in parenting) play an important part in their child's life and community every day. So while Father's Day is a great opportunity to celebrate dads - we should remember their wonderful commitment and parenting input year-round.

Joyful tales of meeting Mr Bandicoot himself, exploration by the sea, a kite dancing in the sky to a talking toothbrush called Tommy are some of the fun nursery rhymes in Mr Bandicoot & Other Tales. Playgroup WA has 4 copies of Mr Bandicoot & Other Tales to giveaway.

To enter, email us with your name, contact phone number and Playgroup WA membership number and answer this question - how long ago was Mr Bandicoot & Other Tails written? Hint: you will need to visit the website.

Entries close Friday 10 September at 4pm. Please note only the winner will be notified. Good luck!

Congratulations to our recent giveaway winners

Kidzabuzz

• Melissa Varela, Stirling
• Ana Costa, Edgewater
• Carolyn Foster, Padbury
• Kristyn Albert, Pearsall
• Tammy Zorde, Heathridge
• Jenny Kelly, Toodyay
• Marissa Rees, Willetton
• Shelley Laver, Kingsley
• Samantha Murdock, Jurien Bay

Favourite Park Poll

• Melissa Levissianos, Dianella

Thank you to everyone that entered!