Photo: ellaslist.com.au

Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos today joined about 20 eager children and their parents at a special Playgroup with Penguins event to promote the benefits of playgroups.

Children had the opportunity to weigh king penguin chicks, play penguin games and balance eggs at the special event, organised by Playgroup Victoria as part of National Playgroup Week celebrations.

Playgroups play a vital role in strengthening families and communities, and instilling children with a lifelong love of learning.

They also help parents connect with one another, enabling them to learn from and support each other as their children grow.

The event comes as the Victorian Early Years Awards open, offering the chance to recognise early childhood professionals making a difference in the lives of Victorian children and families – including those running playgroups.

Families who know of playgroups doing great things can nominate them for awards, including improving access and participation in early learning and supporting parents to build their capacity and confidence.

National Playgroup Week runs from 26 March to 2 April, and raises awareness about playgroups, and acknowledges the important role they play providing parent support and the value of play for children.

We are making Victoria the Education State – this starts with giving every child a strong start in life.

Every year the Victorian Government provides about $4.5 million to support a network of Supported Playgroups to help ensure every Victorian family gets the opportunity to attend a great local playgroup.

For more details and to nominate for the 2017 Victorian Early Years Awards: www.education.vic.gov.au/veya.