Help your child reach their maximum potential by participating in our Parent-Child Playgroups for children ages 0-5. To register your child, or for more information, please call: (831) 758-7355.

In-person playgroups are back! The next session will begin on January 31, 2023 and meet once per week.  Advance registration is required for this 20-week program. 

In-person Playgroups: 

Monday / Lunes 10:00am - 11:30am @ El Gabilan Library (Bilingual)

Monday / Lunes 12:30pm - 2:00pm @ El Gabilan Library (Bilingual)

Tuesdays / Martes 10:00am - 11:30am @ John Steinbeck Library (Bilingual)

Tuesdays / Martes 12:30pm - 2:00pm @ John Steinbeck Library (Bilingual)

Thursdays / Jueves 10:00am - 11:30am @ Cesar Chavez Library (Bilingual)

Thursdays / Jueves 12:30pm - 2:00pm @ Cesar Chavez Library (Bilingual)

To get more information, call (831) 758-7355.

What is a Playgroup?

Young children thrive through healthy relationships with their family and community. The positive day-to-day interactions children have with their parents and caregivers – like talking, reading, singing, and playing – help them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and life. Understanding this importance, First 5 Monterey County invests in playgroups that help families nurture important parent-child relationships, learn about their child’s unique development, and find connections to local resources and services. During playgroups, parent educators model interactions critical for children’s early leaning and social development and focus on play as the way young children learn. Parents get precious time to interact with their child, while giving the child a chance to interact with other children. Parent educators help parents continue the learning at home with suggestions for including children in everyday activities. Playgroups allow the child to learn routines that will prepare him or her for school. Parent educators are professionals who help parents value play as a meaningful learning experience.
 

What happens in a playgroup?

Each playgroup provides sensory play and exploratory activities that develop speech and language, creative play, cognitive development, and promote health and physical development as well as social and emotional development. We will sing songs, read books, serve a snack, support parents, and share best practices to get your child ready for Kindergarten.
 

Why is play important? 

Playing together strengthens the relationship between you and your child. Play also supports social development by helping children interact with others, learn to share and get along. Play is necessary for your child's brain development. Play with your child, encouraging him or her to explore, ask questions, understand his or her feelings, and become a good problem-solver.
 

When can I attend a playgroup?

Playgroups are currently taking place in-person and online, via zoom. After registering for the program you will be contacted to join the playgroups. Playgroups are located at three different locations: John Steinbeck Library, Cesar Chavez Library, and El Gabilan Library. You must fill out the Interest Form available at our libraries. Registration and orientation are required for each session. Playgroups are facilitated by library staff who have received training in early childhood development.

For playgroups to be successful, consistent attendance is critical. A playgroup's size is limited to develop strong supportive relationships.