Playcentre at Kelbourne Street was set up in 2002 by a West End mum who had been inspired by the Playcentre movement in New Zealand, the idea being to involve parents in all aspects of running the centre and to bring the family experience back to parenting.
The original format has evolved to meet the needs of local families. Mums, Dads and carers attending the group help out as and when they can with setting up toys and preparing snacks. It's a relaxed atmosphere, parents get involved, play with the kids, have a coffee and a chat. We sometimes have special art and craft activities.
Lottery Funding and grants from Awards for All have helped us to buy lots of great toys including a fantastic swing, climbing frame and sand pit for the garden.
Sessions cost 2.50 per family (pay as you go) and if you like Playcentre and decide to attend regularly an annual fee of 10 pounds helps to top up the toy fund.
We currently run a Friday morning session (10 to 12 noon) is for all pre-school children and babies.