Bendigo Community Health Services is expanding its smalltalk program in 2024 to include free weekly supported playgroup sessions in Heathcote, Long Gully, Eaglehawk, Ironbark and Kangaroo Flat.

smalltalk is a national program developed by the Parenting Research Centre which promotes strategies to enhance learning at home for children from birth to school age.

Early childhood educator and group facilitator Tiffany Holschier said strategies covered in the playgroup sessions included being warm and gentle, tuning in with children, reading together and engaging children in interesting and stimulating activities, often using readily available recources.

“Part of my job is to use recycled resources, so parents can see they don’t need a lot of toys or equipment to support their child’s learning and development,” she said.

“smalltalk is not just a playgroup, and not just about social interactions for the children.

“The program is also to help parents build confidence in their parenting skills.

“We recognise parents are the professionals when it comes to their children, but we are there to support them, be there for questions, and let them know that they are doing a great job.”

Tiffany said supported playgroups gave parents the time to focus on interacting with their child, “which does a lot for a child’s learning and development”.

“smalltalk also includes ideas on how parents can look after themselves and will help build links with other local families, as well as other local services.”

Tiffany said families who faced barriers to attending a playgroup may be eligible for smalltalk in-home support.

Enrollments are now open for Term 2.

smalltalk supported playgroups include a healthy snack for your child and run during school terms on the following days and locations:

Ironbark - Monday 9.30am - 11.30am

Kangaroo Flat - Tuesday 9.30am - 11.30am

Eaglehawk North - Wednesday 9.15am - 11.15am

Heathcote - Thursday 9am - 10.30am

For information and bookings contact Tiffany on 0498 642 909 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

To check if you're eliegible to attend, see our smalltalk webpage.