Creating a place to 'be' : unpacking the facilitation role in three supported playgroups in Australia

Supported playgroups are a service model used widely in Australia with the dual focus of providing stimulating early childhood environments for children and supportive environments for parents. This article describes research findings from a recent doctoral study that explored three supported playgroups in western Sydney. In particular it focuses on the multi-dimensional and complex facilitation role in these groups. It shows how the creation of inclusive and engaging playgroup environments was inextricably tied to eight categories of support that a diverse range of parents experienced. The research findings demonstrate how effective facilitation in these groups led to parents experiencing increased emotional support, decreased feelings of isolation and inequality and increased confidence in parenting. It also draws attention to the training needs of early childhood professionals who undertake the complex role of facilitation in groups that work with parents and children together.