Playgroup offers vital support

Jean McCausland-Green and Karla Black at Humfrey playgroup which supports parents suffering mental illness.

IT'S a scene you would expect to see at most playgroups.

Children laughing as they happily play with other toddlers.

The chatter of parents as they exchange ideas over a cup of tea.

A playgroup co-ordinator reading aloud to a small group of kids.

But there is something particularly special about the Humfrey Supported Playgroup at Riverview.

It also supports parents with mental health issues and their children.

The group has helped families with young children for more than a year by providing not only playgroup services, but parenting and early childhood support as well.

Psychologist Jean McCausland-Green is one of two playgroup workers who helps facilitate the group's activities each week.

Ms McCausland-Green has worked for the Ipswich Child and Mental Health Service for six years and said the group supported families needing extra support.

"Parents can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while their children play," she said.

"At the same time they can get advice on parenting or their children's development.

"Through my resources I can also link parents to services in Queensland Health".

Ms McCausland-Green said the group helped children gain social skills by interacting with each other.

"For some toddlers the group is the only opportunity for them to play with other children," she said.

"This is important in helping them prepare for school or even child care."

Since it began in September 2010, the playgroup has slowly grown in number, attracting families from as far north as Inala.

"This tells us that what we are doing is working," Ms McCausland-Green said. "And that parents appreciate our service."

The Humfrey Supported Playgroup meets each Thursday from 9.30am to 11.30am at Riverview Neighbourhood House on Old Ipswich Rd.

Group membership is free and anyone interested is encouraged to visit the group or call 3817 2360 for more information.