Play is not only fun; it’s an important part of development for children of all abilities.
Inclusive playgroups provide welcoming environments where all children can thrive and learn together through play. They not only foster skill development for children, but also offer valuable opportunities for parents and carers to connect and support one another.
If you’re raising a child with a disability or developmental delay, you may be seeking affordable activities and services that support your child’s growth while also providing a chance to connect with others who understand your journey.
We’ve compiled a list of free or low-cost inclusive playgroups across WA to help you find one near you!
PlayConnect+ with Playgroup WA
Playgroup WA runs their free PlayConnect+ playgroup throughout the year across Perth metro and regional WA. The playgroups are for children aged 0-8 years with disability or developmental concerns, and their families.
The program includes weekly face-to-face playgroups, online playgroups, and school holiday sessions in locations including Bunbury, Dampier and Surrounds, East Waikiki, Geraldton, Seville Grove, Swan (Stratton), Westminster, Whitfords (Hillarys), and Willetton.
Click here to find out more about the PlayConnect+ program.
VisAbility Playgroup
VisAbility runs the only playgroup in WA specifically for children with vision impairment during the school term. Their playgroups run on Wednesday mornings in Victoria Park and typical sessions include morning circles, sharing books, sensory activities, morning tea, play, and music. You may be able to incorporate the playgroup into your child’s NDIS Plan.
Click here to find out more about VisAbility’s playgroup.
LINKS Playgroup with Autism Association of WA
Autism Association of Western Australia runs their free LINKS Playgroup for parents and carers of children aged under six years who display signs of developmental delay.
While parents and carers talk to experienced therapists, children will be learning play and communication skills. Each group will provide an opportunity to gain information and techniques so you can learn how to best support your child.
The groups run weekly during the school term in various locations including Banksia Grove, Woodvale, Hilton, Ellenbrook, Floreat, Balga, and Gosnells.
This program is for families who are not accessing NDIS-funded therapy providers. Your child does not need an autism diagnosis to attend.
Click here to find out more about LINKS Playgroup.
Down Syndrome WA Playgroup
Down Syndrome Western Australia (DSWA) offers two playgroups for families: the South Metro Playgroup in Warnbro, held every Monday during the school term, and the North Metro Playgroup in Gwelup, which meets every Friday during the school term.
These playgroups provide the opportunity for parents and carers of children with Down Syndrome aged 0-5 years to come together and support each other.
Click here to find out more about the DSWA playgroups.
Click here to find their upcoming playgroups.
Baby Play Academy with Tiny Sparks WA
Tiny Sparks WA offers the Baby Play Academy, a program for WA families whose children have graduated from the NICU and are born after 1 January 2023.
This program provides families with free access to expert therapists and speech pathologists and a community of other parents and carers walking a similar.
The content is designed to enhance the baby’s development by providing play ideas, nurturing motor skills, and exploring language through reading and singing.
Click here to find out more about the Baby Play Academy.
We update our What’s on activity and event guide each week with the latest inclusive playgroups and family-friendly activities across WA.
To stay informed about upcoming free or low-cost events, subscribe to our weekly newsletter to never miss an exciting activity again!
Click here to subscribe to our What’s on activity and event guide.
If you need additional support, you’re welcome to book a Pathway Planning session with one of our Peer Navigators. In this session, we’ll answer your questions, connect you to families like yours, and guide you in finding the support you’re looking for.
Click here to book a Pathway Planning session.
We’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team with any questions or for further assistance.
