Photo: News.com.au

Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos today announced $22.1 million to expand the Supported Playgroups program, which helps mums and dads improve their skills and gain more confidence in looking after their children.

Ms Mikakos was joined by Member for Broadmeadows Frank McGuire at a supported playgroup in Dallas to meet local families, who are among 450 Hume families who have access to this important service.

Currently, the playgroups operate in less than half of Victoria’s local government areas, but the expansion means they will soon be available across the entire state.

A widening of the eligibility criteria will also result in more families being able to access the service, such as those experiencing family violence, social isolation, mental health issues or homelessness.

The program is about improving learning outcomes for families that need additional support, by fostering quality parent-child connections and making the most of the home learning environment.

Playgroups are convened by trained facilitators, who provide specialist training advice as well as referrals to additional services.

It forms part of the Labor Government’s landmark $202.1 million Education State Early Childhood Reform Plan, which is focused on delivering better services to parents with young children, as well as early intervention for kids who need extra support.

The Plan recognises the importance of providing families with strong support in early childhood, so children get the best possible start in life.