| -- End Ad Box ---> | | | | playgroups have, it can be as simple as bringing small |
| There are numerous definitions for playgroups. The | | | | items related to the theme or decorating the entire |
| dictionary defines a playgroup as a place for children | | | | area. For instance, for a pirate theme, teachers can |
| not currently eligible for a formal education in | | | | make a makeshift ship, complete with treasure maps |
| elementary. In Singapore, it is a place where children | | | | for kids where they can find various items. |
| can socialize and have fun. It is where kids can play | | | | Playgroups can initiate making pirate masks or solving |
| and exercise with other children, under the guidance | | | | themed puzzles. |
| and supervision of teachers. Playgroups are also good | | | | Another great idea for playgroups is to organize a |
| for invited parents as it allows them to socialize with | | | | field trip to the local zoo, amusement park, even a |
| one another, get parenting tips and a break from | | | | regular supermarket or other areas. A field trip is |
| household chores and routine. | | | | considerably more expensive than holding the session |
| Ideas for activities in playgroups can vary widely and | | | | within the premises of the child care centre. |
| only limited by the imagination. However, there are | | | | However, a field trip can expose the child to other |
| times when ideas do run out. With realizing any idea, | | | | learning experiences that cannot be offered within |
| teachers and other child care centre staff should be | | | | the classroom or the centre. With a field trip, |
| wary of the age of the children in the playgroup to | | | | teachers need not worry about cleaning up after the |
| make it fun yet safe for all those involved. Here are | | | | playgroup session is over. |
| a few ideas to jog some creative juices for sessions | | | | One other option is to introduce the children to |
| with playgroups. | | | | nature. Children are at a stage when they are |
| One of the more popular ideas for a playgroup | | | | especially curious and enjoy exploring their nearby |
| revolves dressing up for a certain theme. Whether it | | | | environment. Because of their inquisitive nature, |
| is centered on a book, a cartoon or even a particular | | | | children will start asking questions on why things exist |
| letter from the alphabet, it excites both the logical | | | | as they do. It is a good way for teachers to start |
| and creative parts of the child's mind. For instance, | | | | educating the children about how the world works |
| playgroups can have a day dedicated to the letter C | | | | and their relationship to the environment that they |
| wherein each child can dress up and bring an item | | | | live in. Knowing their role at such a young age and |
| which starts with that particular letter. | | | | appreciate their surroundings will teach them how to |
| Various other activities can stem from a themed | | | | take care of the environment better. |
| event. Depending on how much time and resources | | | | |