Teddy Bear’s Picnic was run on 27th October to celebrate National Children’s Week. Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre Child and Parent Support saw an opportunity to not only celebrate Children’s Week, but to also celebrate our local Playgroups.

The aim of the event was to work towards aligning Playgroups around the cluster and to offer an opportunity for a larger group of parents and children to socialise and interact.

It ran at Rex Smeal Park from 9.30am-12.30pm and was hosted by Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre Child and Parent Support Program.

“We set up a large picnic area, in shade, with plenty of water and refreshments available. The centre provided healthy options for refreshments, including veggie sticks and fruit,” said Child and Parent Support Manager Nicole Carnaby.

“The parents and children were welcomed with some bubble play and craft activities, including mask making. We had an exciting visit from the LJ Hooker Bear, who we played games such as Hide and Seek and Follow the Leader with. Children were able to interact with Mr Bear and get photos as treasured memories.”

“We also sung some songs with Mr Bear, before settling in to some Teddy Bear Biscuit decorating and eating,” said Ms Carnaby.

Ms Carnaby reported that this was a big event for many of the children and the parents.

“Not only did many benefit from the socialisation time, they also enjoyed the activities and food ideas. Comments were made about the level of organisation that went into the event, and that the day was planned well to enjoy the experience of getting to know one another without it being prescribed or uncomfortable,” she said.

Some of the parents enjoyed the healthy food ideas and commented that the activities had given them some great ideas for bonding with their children at home. Others said that the event had shown them how easy it is to get outside and enjoy the area, without getting too concerned about sun, dirt and bugs.

From approximately 55 attendees, for quite a few it was their first event with Playgroup, or just their second time attending the group.

“For this group, it was invaluable, in that they got to network with many parents and children, but, also the event demonstrated to them value of Playgroup. Some made firm connections; some gave or received invaluable advice; others just, simply, felt less isolated and more comfortable with their own situation,” said Ms Carnaby.

Lastly, Ms Carnaby reported that the children benefited from being able to socialise and navigate multi-aged group situations with success.

“These sorts of experiences give children, not only excellent memories, but confidence and resilience,” she said.