Kaponga Playcentre: fun for young’uns, mums and dads | Taranaki News | Local News in Taranaki

BY Leon Gray-Lockhart
EVEN the chilliest Kaponga breezes cannot stifle the noise of delighted children having fun with their families and the families of their friends at Playcentre.
With the bright sun streaming through the covered playground, it’s plain to see just why the children love it so much at the Kaponga Playcentre; the new playground beaming in a multitude of colours in the cool air.
“We had a new playground completed just before Christmas,” says Christine Erkes, vice-president of Kaponga Playcentre.
“So, over the summer, many children got to enjoy it. Even though it’s cooling off, they still love going out and playing.”
Funding for the playground came out of what was left over from previously obtained renovation money and funds raised via well-supported sausage sizzles and raffles.
“All up, I think it cost about $20,000 to put the new playground in, so we were very glad to receive great community support.”
The new playground is all part of the organisation’s focus on encouraging children to learn through play; the fundamental philosophy behind the Playcentre movement in New Zealand.
“Here at Kaponga Playcentre, we offer 16 areas of play for the children. These include finger-painting, clay work, a sandpit, water-play, and now, of course, the new playground.
“The Playcentre philosophy really is that children learn a huge amount from simply playing with each other. Their play is supported by their parents who join in with the kids.”
While the Ministry of Education largely funds Playcentre, parents are fully involved in the day-to-day operation of individual centres, as well as undertaking any additional fundraising that may be required.
“Being involved in Playcentre is great because parents learn so much too. Those who wish to can use their involvement in Playcentre as a means to attain a properly accredited childcare diploma.
“They can also learn things like first-aid, all without having to spend a lot of time away from their children; it’s an enormously beneficial organisation to be associated with.”
Kaponga Playcentre is presently used by 16 families, and is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“We have up to 25 children using our Playcentre, but we have capacity for more if families are interested.
“Both the kids and their parents have a ball at Playcentre. Being involved is a great way to feel a part of the community too, as you get to know and support other families,” says Christine.
If you would like to learn more about Kaponga Playcentre, phone 764 8108.