Family Place

drop-in nanaimo playgroup

welcome to family place!

Family Place is your go-to destination for parents and caregivers of little ones aged birth to 6! At Family Place, we believe in the power of play, and we’re here to help you discover new and exciting ways to bond with your child through playtime. Our program is all about creating meaningful connections between parents and their little explorers.

As you and your child engage in fun activities together, you’ll not only have a blast but also strengthen your relationship. We know that these early years are crucial, and our aim is to make them as enriching as possible. Through play, your child will have the chance to interact with their peers, learn essential skills like sharing and conflict resolution, and develop both fine and gross motor skills while expressing their creativity.

Family Place isn’t just about playtime – we’re also your hub for valuable resources and information. From community resources to informative pamphlets and access to parent magazines, we’ve got you covered. Plus, our program brings in monthly guest speakers, including experts in nutrition, dental hygiene, and speech and language development. It’s a place where parents and caregivers come together, share, learn, and grow.

the power of playing together:

positive impacts and stats

social experiences

Playgroups provide children with valuable opportunities to interact with their peers, helping them develop critical social skills like sharing, taking turns, and cooperating. These early social experiences can set the foundation for successful relationships as they grow.

language development

Engaging with other children and adults in a playgroup setting supports language acquisition for young children. Through songs, stories, and conversation, children are exposed to new vocabulary and sentence structures, boosting their communication skills in a fun, interactive way.

parental support

Playgroups give parents the chance to connect with other parents, share experiences, and seek advice in a supportive environment. It’s a great way to build friendships and create a community of caregivers who understand the joys and challenges of raising young children.

emotional development

Playgroups offer children a safe environment to express their emotions, whether it’s through imaginative play or group activities. By interacting with others, children learn how to navigate feelings like frustration, excitement, or empathy, which fosters emotional resilience.

physical activity

Many playgroups incorporate activities like outdoor play, dancing, and games, giving children an outlet for physical energy. Regular movement is crucial for young children’s motor skill development, coordination, and overall health.

confidence building

Attending playgroups regularly can help both parents and children build confidence. For children, being in a group setting without constant parental guidance encourages independence. For parents, it provides reassurance and builds confidence in their parenting abilities through shared experiences.