How to Find a Play Group

Finding a good play group for your preschooler is a great way to introduce your child to a variety of educational and social skills as well a great way for you to meet other parents.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yellow Pages

1. Determine why your child would benefit from a play group. Ask yourself if your child can play cooperatively and independently. Is your child afraid to be without you or lacking in self-confidence?

2. Make a list of your child's play group needs as well as any restrictions you might have as a parent. Play groups may cost anywhere from $5 - $150 or they may be free. Some play groups meet only on certain days and times. Groups may meet in the same spot every week or alternate sites. Some groups go on field trips and offer a babysitting circle. You may have to look outside of your city limits to find a suitable group.

3. Look under "education" in the local business directory for businesses that offer registered, or paid, play groups.

4. Inquire at your local library about registered or drop-in play groups or story and puppet times.

5. Call a church and check if the parishioners have a denominational play group or if any parent members of the church run play groups.

6. Go to your local playground and ask other parents about play groups they attend. You may also consider finding a preschool; some preschools offer mother's day out programs on a part-time basis for a small fee.

7. Research each play group lead. Ask specific questions about the size of the group and the activities the children participate in. What is the average age of the attending children? Do you have to stay with your child or is it a drop-off program? When and where does the group meet? Even ask if you may sit in on one group for a trial period.

8. Decide which group is best for your child and sign up or get there early. Play groups are very popular and fill up quickly. If you have to preregister do so early or during the season before the group starts.

Tips & Warnings

• A daycare center is the most likely candidate for a drop-off program.
• Some play groups are for specific ages and you may need to make special arrangements for younger or older children.
• Bring extra clothing and food supplies so you won't have to leave unexpectedly.
• Show up early for free play groups; they can get crowded.
• Most play groups are parent-attended and children need to be supervised closely. Watch your children carefully. If you have to step out for any reason, make sure you ask another parent to supervise your child. Most play group organizers will not assume any liability for accidents.

on 11/22/2005 You can find playgroups at Playgroups USA. There you can locate a playgroup by doing an area search and joining, or starting a playgroup that fits your criteria.