"In here, I turn myself inside out, give myself a shake, shake, shake and finally I get glad all over that I am me"!
A child with Virginia Axline
Play groups provide a safe, nurturing environment in which children can spontaneously express themselves in the language of play.
Enrolled Head Start children and their parents are offered this service. A limited number are selected based on the parent's interest, the needs of the child and the availability of staff. Play Groups are facilitated by trained Head Start staff. There are three staff persons for each group of 4-5 children.
Through a Meyer Memorial Trust Grant, a 34 foot recreational vehicle was purchased and custom designed to serve as a mobile playroom/classroom. This unit serves 11 rural commuities on the southern coast of Oregon.
Parents attend an orientation meeting and give permission for their child to participate. Parents may be involved in transporting their child if the Play Group is offered outside of class time. At some locations, parents can also attend a group meeting while their child is in the Play Group.
Generally, 6-12 sessions are offered, one hour per week. Groups can occur during or outside of class time but within the school day.