New play book for WA’s indigenous community

A new book highlighting innovative play activities for Indigenous playgroups in urban, rural and remote areas of Western Australia was officially launched today.

The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson, today launched Play Book, a book developed by Playgroup WA, which outlines how playgroups can adopt new ideas for low cost play activities.

“Play Book focuses specifically on Indigenous playgroups and families throughout Western Australia, with a greater emphasis on increasing the interaction between carers, families and their children,” Senator Patterson said.

“The book provides practical activities suitable for playgroups in rural and remote areas including physical activities, arts and craft, music and story telling.

“In 2003 the Howard Government provided $340,000 funding to the Playgroup Australia Inc, for research into national rural and remote playgroups.

“Following extensive consultation with families and playgroups in Western Australia, Playgroup WA developed this book with easy to follow activities, using materials found in their local environment.

“The book will provide playgroups and families with practical culturally appropriate information and will be a great resource for Indigenous children and their carers in years to come.

“Supporting children and families is a key priority for the Howard Government and I am committed to helping children get the best possible start in life by working in partnership with playgroups and local communities,” Senator Patterson said.