Your First Visit

Welcome — We're So Glad You're Coming

First-time visits to playgroup can feel a little daunting — for children and grown-ups alike. We want you to know that every single family at Perfect Squiggle had a first day, and we remember what that felt like. Whether your little one runs straight for the art table or needs the whole session to sit on your lap and watch, you are both welcome exactly as you are.

This guide covers the practical details so you can focus on the fun.

Session Details

Arrive anytime between 9:30am and 11:00am. We run until 11:30am, so arriving much later than 11:00am can make it hard for little ones to settle before it's time to pack up.

What to Bring

• A change of clothes — messy play is encouraged and clothes will likely get paint or sand on them
• A snack or lunch for your child — we have a snack time mid-session
• A water bottle for your child
• Nappies and wipes if needed
• Any comfort items — dummy, comforter, favourite toy
• Sunscreen if you'd like — we occasionally head outside

We provide smocks for art and painting activities, so your child's clothes are protected as much as possible. That said, paint and sand have a way of finding gaps — a change of clothes is always a good idea.

What Happens During a Session

When you arrive, sign in at the door and pay the $10 session fee. The hall will already be set up with our full range of activities — art table, sensory play, building blocks, literacy corner, dramatic play, wooden puzzles and gross motor equipment. Everything stays set up throughout the session so children can move freely between activities at their own pace.

Around 10:45am we gather for a short group time — singing, dancing and a story together. After group time we pack away, enjoy a snack, and have some final free play before saying goodbye at 11:30am.

There's no structure your child needs to follow, no expectations about participation, and no timetable to keep to. Come and go from activities as you please.

Your Role as a Caregiver

Perfect Squiggle is a caregiver-accompanied playgroup — you stay with your child throughout the session. This is intentional: the relationship between caregiver and child is the most important factor in early learning, and our activities are designed to be enjoyed together as much as independently.

You'll often find that children gain confidence quickly and start to explore on their own — especially when caregivers are relaxed and chatting with other families. So grab a seat, get to know someone new, and let them go at their own pace.

If Your Child Finds It Hard at First

Some children dive straight in. Others need time. Here are some common first-visit experiences:

• Clingy or cautious: Stay close, narrate what you see, and follow their lead. Most children warm up within two or three visits.
• Overwhelmed by noise or busy spaces: The literacy corner is the quietest part of the hall and makes a good starting point for sensory-sensitive children.
• Doesn't want to leave: Also completely normal — and a great sign!

Our facilitators are experienced at gently supporting families through the settling-in process. Please don't hesitate to let us know if you need anything at all.

Parking & Getting Here

Bald Hills Uniting Church Hall is on the eastern side of Gympie Road heading north, at number 2131. There is free on-site parking directly outside the hall. The building is pram-friendly with step-free access throughout.

By public transport, Bald Hills train station is approximately 400m away (5min walk). The 680 and 905 bus routes serve Gympie Road.

Any Questions?

We're always happy to answer questions before your first visit. Reach out on Facebook, Instagram, or email us at perfectsquiggle@gmail.com. We can't wait to meet you and your little one!