The lack of Filipino playgroup in Cairns motivated this mum to create one

In a heartfelt effort to connect her Filipino-Japanese child with her Filipino roots, first-time mum Lara Aoyagi launched the first Filipino playgroup in Cairns, Queensland.

First Filipino playgroup in Cairns, Queensland

KEY POINTS

• The Australian Institute of Family Studies notes that families from diverse cultural backgrounds often hesitate to join community playgroups due to limited English proficiency, cultural differences, or fears of not being accepted.
• Co-founder Lara Aoyagi aims to familiarise the kids with Filipino nursery rhymes and Tagalog books, encouraging their connection to Filipino culture.
• The group has proven beneficial for families who are new to Australia and are looking for a welcoming environment where they feel understood and accepted.

Recognising a gap for a Filipino playgroup in Cairns, Lara took it upon herself to create a space where Filipino culture could be celebrated and shared.

"There was no Filipino playgroup available to immerse children in the culture, so that’s what prompted me to start the playgroup."

Establishing the playgroup was not easy. Despite the challenges, Lara has witnessed firsthand the positive impact it has had on both parents and children.

"The playgroup is great because it’s a safe space. You can let your kids play and run around while you sit, have coffee and chat with other mums."

Lara has witnessed firsthand the positive impact it has had on both parents and children.

The Australian Institute of Family Studies highlights that families from different cultural backgrounds often hesitate to join community playgroups because of the limited English proficiency, cultural differences, or feelings of not being fully accepted.

The group has proven beneficial for families who are new to Australia and are looking for a welcoming environment where they feel understood and accepted.

Lara immerses her daughter to the Filipino culture

Lara says that the playgroup creates a sense of belonging among parents, offering a comfortable space to discuss parenting and share experiences without judgment providing essential support, especially for new mums.

"And because you share similar values, you can talk comfortably. They understand your parenting style. You won’t be judged. It’s a safe place where whatever decisions you make for your child are respected."

The program has since become more structured, incorporating Filipino songs, reading Filipino books, and focusing on children aged 0-5, with the majority under 3.

Not only is it a safe place, but Lara shares that the benefits for children include developing social skills, acquiring Filipino language skills, and experiencing cultural immersion.

At its first session, the playgroup attracted nearly 20 participants, with an average of 10 to 15 children attending each session.

She adds that the program has since become more structured, incorporating Filipino songs and reading Filipino books. Lara aims to familiarise the kids with Filipino nursery rhymes and Tagalog books, encouraging their connection to Filipino culture.

"We sing Filipino songs and read Filipino books. We hope that by seeing us read Tagalog books, the children will be encouraged and become familiar with the Filipino language and culture."

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

The lack of Filipino playgroup in Cairns motivated this mum to create one

SBS Filipino

25/07/202412:03

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'Usapang Parental' is SBS Filipino's segment on parenting. It features the stories of migrant families, parenting issues, raising kids, and parenting tips and advice from experts.