Let’s celebrate National Playgroup Week!

16th – 22nd March 2026

Join us for National Playgroup Week 2026! Our theme, Play For All, is a promise. A promise that playgroups remain open, inclusive and welcoming spaces where all children can learn, grow and belong. Whether it’s through culturally safe programs, supported playgroups, intergenerational sessions, or local community groups led by passionate volunteers, Playgroup NSW is dedicated to removing barriers so every family feels seen, valued and included.

Because when play is accessible to everyone, communities thrive. Children build confidence. Parents feel supported. Cultures are shared. Connections deepen. And families who might otherwise feel isolated find a place to call home.

What's On

Mon 16 March

Our Advocacy Asks

Launching our advocacy asks to ensure that every child, in every family, in every community thrives in the first 2000 days in NSW.
Tue 17 March

NSW Parliament Celebration Event

Join us as Minister Kate Washington and our panel of celebrity dads will share the importance of engaging dads in the first 2000 days.
Tue 17 March

Key Word Sign Webinar

For volunteers and educators to support inclusive playgroup practices and learning opportunities
Wed 18 March

Community Changemakers Launch

Our stories from community volunteers making a difference to their local children and families through the power of play
Thu 19 March

Village Builders Launch

Our innovative multifaceted backbone program to support playgroup volunteers and facilitators across NSW to thrive
Daily

Fun Facts About Play

Join us as we share fun facts about play
Daily

Playgroups Galore

Pop along to one of our 650 playgroups happening every single week and see what all the fun is about!
Daily

Peer Support Groups

Tailored for parents of children with a disability, join one of our 50 MyTime groups happening weekly across NSW
Daily

Evidence and Research to Practice

Your daily dose of research, evidence and knowledge to inform high quality and fun playgroups and peer support

Hello, Hello from the CEO!

Come and See What All The FUN Is About This National Playgroup Week!

National Playgroup Week 2026 (16–22 March) is here — and it’s the perfect time to celebrate something we know is truly life-changing: play!

At Playgroup NSW, we know the first 2,000 days shape everything — and playgroups are at the heart of giving every child the best start. They’re not just about songs and storytime (though we love those too!) — our playgroups help children develop, parents gain confidence, and families connect with the support they need. From early learning programs and supported playgroups to services for dads, kinship carers, and families in regional or remote areas, our playgroups are for everyone.

This year, National Playgroup Week shines a spotlight on Play For All — our promise that every child and family can access safe, welcoming, community‑led play. Through play, we:

  • Strengthen children’s development and early learning
  • Build parent and carer confidence
  • Spot early developmental concerns and connect families to support
  • Reduce pressure on health, education, and child protection systems
  • And create communities where families truly belong

But there’s still more to do. This week, we celebrate what our playgroups make possible and call on everyone to help us reach dads, foster carers, regional families, and children who need us most.

National Playgroup Week is about fun, connection, and support — and it’s a chance for all Australians to get behind the power of play. Come join us! Emily Caska CEO, Playgroup NSW

Member Stories

Meet Gyimaah, Sarah & Asher

For first-time parents Sarah and Gyimaah, our Dads & Bubs Playgroup has been a lifeline of support on their journey through parenthood with their 12-month-old son, Asher.

Meet Taylor & Vin

Meet Taylor, a dedicated mum to Vin, a bright and spirited 3-year-old child. Like many parents, Taylor wanted to find the best support for her son, helping him grow and develop in a way that celebrated his unique abilities. That’s when she discovered PlayConnect+, a playgroup designed specifically for children with disabilities.

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Announcement Post

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Announcement Post (Alt)

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Flyer

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Advocacy

At Playgroup NSW, we are committed to advocating for the rights and needs of children and families. We strive to be informed, articulate, and forward-thinking in identifying and responding to issues related to playgroups, parental capacity and community ties. Through our advocacy initiatives, we aim to influence policies and practices that impact early childhood development and family well-being. We collaborate with other organisations and stakeholders to ensure that the voices of families are heard and considered in decision-making processes. For more information about our advocacy efforts, please visit our official website at Playgroup NSW.
Learn More

What is Playgroup NSW?

Playgroup NSW is a not-for-profit organisation that has been connecting families and children to community services for over 50 years, positively impacting their quality of life. It links over 65,000 families to essential services like parent support groups and playgroups to support early childhood development, help navigate parenting challenges, and build resilient communities.

With 550 weekly playgroups, 26,000 annual sessions, and over 500 volunteers, Playgroup NSW continues to make a significant difference in the lives of young children and their families across the state.
National Playgroup Week

Become a Member

At Playgroup NSW, we’re all about creating joyful spaces where kids can play, learn, and thrive! Your generous donation keeps the magic alive, helping us provide vital support to parents, children, and carers. Donate today and help create a brighter future for our children!

Donate to Playgroup NSW

At Playgroup NSW, we’re all about creating joyful spaces where kids can play, learn, and thrive! Your generous donation keeps the magic alive, helping us provide vital support to parents, children, and carers. Donate today and help create a brighter future for our children!
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Playgroup NSW acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; to elders both past and present, and the children of today who will become the elders of tomorrow.
2026
Playgroup NSW