Free Playgroups with Sydney Community Services

Every Tuesday and Thursday, laughter, conversation, and play fill The Meeting House in Lane Cove North as families come together for our free community playgroups. These sessions are more than just a chance for children to play — they are a place where friendships are formed, families feel supported, and community connections grow.

At Sydney Community Services, we are proud to continue a long tradition of supporting children and families through play, learning, and connection.

A Place with a Rich Community History

The Meeting House, located on Stokes Street in Lane Cove North, has been at the heart of the local community for more than 45 years.

Established in 1978, the centre began its life as a parent-run preschool operating out of two houses bequeathed to Lane Cove Council. Over the years, it evolved to meet the changing needs of the community — expanding to include before and after school care, women’s and seniors’ groups, and arts and craft activities.

In 2013, the original houses were replaced with a purpose-built, modern community hub, officially opened by the Mayor and designed to support people of all ages. In 2020, The Meeting House formally merged with Sydney Community Services, strengthening its role as a multipurpose community centre offering family services, seniors’ programs, playgroups, and community transport.

Today, The Meeting House continues to thrive as a welcoming neighbourhood space — home to playgroups, social activities, room hire, and a community garden — reflecting its long-standing commitment to bringing people together.

Why Playgroups Matter

Local playgroups play a vital role in supporting early childhood development, parent wellbeing, and community connection.

For children, playgroups provide a safe and nurturing environment where learning happens naturally through play. Children can explore, create, and interact at their own pace while developing important skills that support their growth and future learning.

Benefits for children include:

• Social and emotional development through sharing, turn-taking, and building relationships
• Language and cognitive development through songs, stories, pretend play, and creative activities
• Physical development by using play equipment that builds fine and gross motor skills
• School readiness, helping children feel comfortable in group settings before preschool or school

For parents and carers, playgroups are just as important. Early parenting can sometimes feel isolating, especially for families new to the area or without strong support networks. Playgroups offer a relaxed and welcoming space where adults can connect with others who are on a similar journey.

Benefits for parents and carers include:

• Social connection and reduced isolation through meeting other local families
• Peer support and shared knowledge, including parenting tips and everyday reassurance
• Strengthened parent-child relationships through dedicated play and observation
• Connection to community services and local resources

Playgroups help build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging — not only for families, but for the wider community.

Supporting Families, Strengthening Community

Sydney Community Services has a long history of delivering inclusive, accessible family services, and our free playgroups are a key part of that commitment. By offering regular, structured play opportunities in a trusted community setting, we help create strong foundations for children while supporting parents and carers during the early years.

Playgroups also act as a bridge to other community supports, helping families feel more connected, informed, and engaged in their local area.

Made Possible Through Community Support

The continuation of our free playgroups would not be possible without government grants and community support. This funding helps ensure that families can access high-quality, inclusive early childhood programs regardless of their circumstances.

By investing in early development and community connection, government funding enables services like playgroups to deliver long-term benefits — supporting children’s development, strengthening families, and fostering healthier, more connected communities.

Join Us

Our free playgroups at The Meeting House run every Tuesday and Thursday, welcoming parents, grandparents, carers, and children to come along, play, connect, and grow together.

Whether you are new to the area or already part of the community, we invite you to be part of this special tradition — where generations have come together for more than four decades.