Difficulty to find a suitable playgroup inspired Banksia Grove resident Samantha to take matters into her own hands and start her own.
Her five-year-old daughter Chelsea has autism, and Samantha struggled to find an accepting playgroup for her two daughters.
She launched Acceptance, Inclusion and Play Playgroup at Jenolan Way Community Centre in Merriwa in October, to cater for kids on the spectrum and with other disabilities.
“There was no playgroup north of Whitfords that suits kids with autism, so I decided it was time to start my own,” she said.
“You can come here and not be judged. Chelsea likes to flap and jump, you don’t have to explain her behaviour to other parents and kids. We accept everyone.”
Despite only opening in October, the playgroup is already extremely popular, with 50 children attending sessions and a wait list.
The playgroup is free for families and is supported by Arise Services, a disability service provider, with all toys were donated by the community.
They have water play and movie nights and are soon to host a Christmas disco suitable for kids with sensory issues.
“The kids play together and the parents help each other out accessing NDIS and general advice,” Samantha said.
“I get to hang out with my friends every week – they’re basically my family.”
As well as visits from an occupational therapist, a music therapist and the deputy principal of a local school stop by the playgroup to discuss accessing mainstream education with the parents.
