Playgroup FAQs
Who can attend the playgroups?
Our playgroups are designed for children aged 15 months to 7 years, together with a parent or carer. Siblings within this age range are very welcome.
Do I stay with my child?
Yes. Both Billy Buttons and Bush Blossoms are parent-and-child playgroups. They are designed for parents and carers to join in, offering a nourishing morning of shared play, rhythm, and connection. These are not drop-off programs.
How many families are in each group?
We keep our groups intentionally small to ensure a calm and homelike atmosphere.
Billy Buttons: between 7 and 10 families.
Bush Blossoms: small outdoor groups, depending on the season and space.
What does a typical session look like?
Both playgroups follow a gentle rhythm that includes:
- Arrival time for free play
- Circle time with songs, verses, and movement
- Storytelling with seasonal tales
- A craft or baking activity (Billy Buttons) or bush-inspired activity (Bush Blossoms)
- Shared morning tea (families bring a piece of fruit to contribute)
- Outdoor play and exploration
- Closing verse or song
- Each group runs at its own pace, guided by the children and the flow of the morning.
What do I need to bring?
- A piece of fruit to add to our shared fruit bowl each week.
- Weather-appropriate clothing (gumboots, hats, raincoats, etc. for Bush Blossoms).
- A sense of warmth, playfulness, and readiness to slow down and enjoy the morning together.
Is food provided?
Yes. In addition to the shared fruit bowl:
At Billy Buttons, the children bake bread in the cooler months or prepare a simple healthy treat in the warmer months.
At Bush Blossoms, we share a simple seasonal snack together in the bush.
Can babies or younger siblings come along?
Yes. Babies in arms are welcome to accompany older siblings. Please note that the activities are designed for children aged 15 months and up.
How do I enrol?
Playgroups are booked by the term, with payment required upfront. This helps create continuity and community within each group. Enrolments can be made through our website booking system.
What are the fees?
Billy Buttons: $400 per term for one child, 50% discount additional siblings.
Bush Blossoms: Fees vary slightly depending on the season. Please check the current enrolment page for details. (Fees may be adjusted to account for public holidays.)
What happens if it rains for Bush Blossoms?
We believe there is joy to be found in all weather! Sessions continue outdoors, and families are encouraged to dress for the conditions. In the case of severe weather, sessions may be shortened, rescheduled, or adapted. Families will be contacted in advance if changes are needed. Alternatively the session will be held at the house of creative learning.
Do you offer casual sessions?
For Billy Buttons, to protect the rhythm of the group and the sense of community, enrolment is by the term only. This helps the children settle into a familiar rhythm and creates deeper connections. Bush Blossoms has casual spots available.
What if we can’t attend one week?
We understand that illness and life events happen. However, missed sessions cannot be refunded, as our groups run in small numbers and costs are covered term-by-term.
What if my child is unwell?
We kindly ask families to keep unwell children at home to help keep the group healthy. Missed sessions cannot be refunded, but your place is kept for the term.
Can grandparents or other carers bring my child?
Yes, grandparents and trusted carers are very welcome. We simply ask that the attending adult joins in the rhythm of the morning alongside the child.
Do I need any special skills for the crafts or activities?
Not at all. Activities are designed to be simple and enjoyable for both children and adults. Everything is guided gently, and the focus is always on the experience, not the outcome.
Do you celebrate birthdays or festivals?
Yes. We acknowledge and celebrate the seasonal festivals throughout the year in a simple and meaningful way. If your child has a birthday during term, we invite you to share a small celebration with the group (such as bringing a plate of fruit or a special song).
What if my child doesn’t join in with circle or story?
That’s perfectly okay. Children are free to participate in their own time and way. The rhythm is there to hold them, but there is no pressure or expectation to sit still or join in before they are ready.
Do you offer trial sessions?
Because our playgroups are built on rhythm and connection, we do not offer casual trials. However, families are welcome to contact us to arrange a visit or chat before enrolling to see if the group feels like a good fit.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is a safe and easy parking available close to the playgroup space. Details will be sent upon enrolment.
Do I need to bring toys or materials?
No – everything needed for play, craft, and baking is provided. We do ask families to bring along a piece of fruit each week to share for morning tea.
How do you handle allergies or dietary needs?
Please let us know about any allergies when enrolling. We take great care when preparing food and encourage families to do the same when contributing to the shared fruit bowl.
