Play With Your Kids (PWYK) provides a safe, welcoming space for parents and children aged 0–8 years to learn, play, and connect.

The program offers free, activity-based playgroups that support children’s physical, emotional, and social development while helping parents build confidence and social networks.

When Anna*, a single mother, first joined Play With Your Kids (PWYK) with her four-year-old son, she was navigating the challenges of domestic violence and its ongoing impact on her child.

Anna sought support to help her son manage trauma-related behaviours, including severe separation anxiety, speech regression, emotional dysregulation, and difficulties with social skills.

Over six months, PWYK staff built a trusting relationship with Anna and facilitated connections to a range of supports.

Her son received developmental assistance through regular visits from partner organisations at Harmony Hub, while Anna was referred for counselling.

Thanks to these supports, Anna now has formal mental health care in place, and her son continues to access ongoing developmental assistance.

Together, they remain active participants in PWYK, engaging in a safe and supportive environment that provides practical strategies, encouragement, and opportunities to rebuild connection and resilience.

By combining play-based learning with access to specialised services, PWYK helps families strengthen relationships, improve child development outcomes, and build capacity to thrive, Sheenah Heinonen, HBNC’s Families, Children & Youth Manager, said.

“Anna and her son’s journey demonstrates the power of a supportive, connected community,” Sheenah said.

“Providing consistent care, encouragement, and access to services helps families regain confidence and resilience.”

*Names have been changed for privacy.

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