How do I get there?
We are located at the Forsyth Centre, 2B Montpelier Street, Neutral Bay (northern end of
Forsyth Park). From street level, enter the gate and follow the path to the building. Our
entrance is via the sliding glass door (between Montessori Preschool and the toilets) –
follow the pathway to the rear private garden/playground. Street parking (2-hours) and
public transport (bus #263) are available.
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What should I bring?
Please apply suncream and bring a hat, morning tea to share and a water bottle. For morning tea we suggest cut up fruit and crackers - no nuts and no popcorn, and we try to avoid sugar.
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What should my children wear?
We have a sandpit and often enjoy wet play in summer, sensory play and craft so please wear old clothes and bring a change of clothes in case things get really messy.
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Do you open in wet weather, in school holidays, and over Christmas?
Forsyth Park Playgroup meets on Thursdays from 10am to 11.30am (clean up and exit by
12pm). During the school term, our premises can be opened by Montessori Preschool
from 9.30am and will continue depending on members' wishes. We have a small indoor space for use in wet weather but check the Facebook group to confirm whether playgroup will go ahead because it will depend on numbers. We are closed for a few weeks over Christmas and on public holidays.
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Can my baby come to the music class? S/he can't walk yet.
Yes! Periodically, we host music events designed for children and run by professional music teachers. Our teacher from Einsteinz Music has a real gift for capturing the attention and enthusiasm of all ages. Kids of all ages love sitting on their little chairs in a semi-circle, or crawling around outside, in the shade, playing the drums or just sucking on their maracas.
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What other events do you run?
In the past we have had a kiddie farm visit. We also have celebrations like Easter egg hunts, Christmas parties and other social events for the grownups.
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I have an idea for an activity/I want to get involved. What do I do?
About once a month a member runs an activity they feel excited about. It is all done voluntarily, when inspiration hits. It can be organised months in advance to allow for purchasing boutique supplies (with approval from the committee) or simply discussed the week before. Sometimes we have craft sessions, sensory play or a book reading. Other times it might be singing, bells, dress ups or the parachute. This is a great opportunity to try out an activity that is too big or too messy for home. There is no idea too big or too small.
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There are many other ways to get involved, too, like helping with the Facebook page/group, welcoming new members and making tea. If you have an idea, we'd love to hear about it.
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I'm worried I won't be able to commit much time to helping at playgroup.
The success of our playgroup depends on everyone participating. It is important that
everyone contributes and helps in some way. This might be: (a) set up – bring out a selection of toys and set up the morning tea trolley, (b) pack up – sweep under picnic table, sweep any stray sand back to the sandpit, remove rubbish, neatly return all toys, and return clean items to the kitchen cupboards, (c) lock up – switch off lights and lock up everything.
It only takes a few minutes if everyone pitches in together. If you are unable to stay until the finish, then please ensure you help set up the toys at the start of the session, and vice versa.
Not all members need to help all the time and there are many different ways to help make our playgroup a success. This might be setting up on the day, taking photos and contributing to the Facebook account/group or running fun activities for the kids. You get out what you put in but we all play to our strengths!
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Do I have to help clean up?
Yes! About twice a year we have a big clean up to freshen up or replace equipment. Everyone is asked to get involved, both in the clean up and in planning the purchase of new materials.
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How is Forsyth Park Playgroup governed?
We are affiliated with Playgroup NSW, our governing body. They set out the rules and regulations for our playgroup and we submit financial reports to them, annually.
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Your membership fees with Playgroup NSW cover your insurance while your membership fees to our playgroup cover the purchase of equipment and lessons etc.
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Forsyth Park Playgroup does not have any paid staff. It is run by a volunteer committee that consists of a coordinator, treasurer and secretary. They determine how our playgroup operates and sets fees as well as the purchase of activities/toys, kitchen supplies and music events in consultation with members.
Once a year there is an Annual General Meeting to discuss the future of the playgroup and members are encouraged to come along to share their ideas.
The financials are available to full members after the AGM which is usually held in Nov/Dec. The committee is always open to suggestions and feedback.