Play Focus Area

Play often looks simple. A child stacking blocks, a parent watching, unsure if it is doing anything. But there is more happening in these moments than it first appears.

The Play Working Group (WG) has been exploring how to help families see play as part of everyday learning, and how it can bring people together in ways that feel natural and inclusive.

One example is the intergenerational playgroup in Whitlam, run by ACT Playgroups in partnership with Mingle. Families come together across age and backgrounds. Some are lived in the area for years, others are new, finding connection through play.

The Play WG is looking at how to support and build on initiatives like this, including sharing and strengthening simple ideas such as informal “play in the park” opportunities that celebrate on existing community connections.

Many parents already understand that play matters. What is less clear is how to support it in everyday life.

Play-based Learning and Intentionality

In early 2025, The ACT Education Directorate released Play-based Learning and Intentionality, a professional learning program for educators across early childhood settings.

The Play WG is now working to make this knowledge more accessible for families through a series of short, easy to use resources that offer everyday ideas for use at home.

This work is still developing. There are ongoing questions about how to align efforts across organisations and avoid duplication.

Supporting play is not about programs. It is about connection, and helping families feel confident in the small, everyday moments that matter.

For more information, please visit https://belconnenvillage.org.au/play/