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Playgroups
Choosing a Pre-School Playgroup
Playgroups provide sessions of play and education for children. You will find playgroups in most areas across the country, often wherever parents or voluntary groups have set them up, in city centres and in most rural villages. Parents often help the staff, normally on a rota basis. Gaelic playgroups may also be available in some areas. A Playgroup may also be known as Croileagan in Scotland.
Plus points
- Your child can enjoy learning and playing in a small group
- You can meet and get to know parents in your area
How do parents know their child will be safe and secure?
First of all you know your child best - look for a playgroup you feel will suit your child. Help in making this decision is provided in the fact sheet Top Ten Questions.
Playgroups are registered with the Care Commission. A check on the premises is carried out to make sure the building is safe and suitable for children.
In addition, many playgroups can deliver pre-school education under contract to their local authority. Playgroups are required to register with the Care Commission.
You can ask to see the playgroups registration certification and latest inspection report.
How many staff are there in playgroups?
The number of staff required is set out in the National Care Standards for Early Education and Childcare. Where children in a playgroup are aged 3 years and over, there must be one member of staff to every eight children. However, where children aged 3 and over receive daycare for a session, which is less than a continous period of 4 hours, as is common in playgroups, there may be 1 member of staff to every 10 children.
When are playgroups open?
Playgroups are usually open for two to five sessions per week, and each session is likely to be for about two and a half hours.
What about full-time childcare?
Playgroups have developed because parents want their children to have some time in a group setting to play and be with new adults and children before they start nursery or school. Although they have not been geared to the schedules of working parents, in some areas extended hours playgroups are open all day. Some parents prefer to combine childminding with playgroups to meet their needs.
How much does a playgroup cost and how do I find one?
Playgroups cost on average about £2.50 per session. Visit the Scottish Childcare website to find out about playgroups near to your home.
Is there any financial assistance for parents on low income or single parents?
Yes, you can apply for Working Families Tax Credit and/or New Deal.
Do children who live within the Stirling Council area get priority for a nursery/playgroup place over a child who lives outside the area?
Yes.
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