What is the Difference Between Playgroup and Preschool

Playgroup and preschool are both early childhood programs. They help young children learn and grow through playing, but they have different purposes.

What is the difference between playgroup and preschool? Playgroups are informal gatherings where parents stay and children play, whereas preschools are more structured, teacher-led programs that prepare children for school.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Playgroup  
     – Definition, Features 
2. What is a Preschool
     – Definition, Features 
3. Similarities Between Playgroup and Preschool
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Playgroup and Preschool
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Playgroup and Preschool
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Playgroup, Preschool

What is a Playgroup

A playgroup is a regular gathering where young children come together to play. It is usually for kids from infancy to preschool age. Children play freely or take part in simple activities while parents or caregivers watch, help, or socialize.

There are two main types of playgroups: supported playgroups and community playgroups.

Supported playgroups are run by trained staff or organizations. These can include schools, churches, or community centers. They are often designed to support families who may need extra help. This includes refugee families, teen parents, or children with special needs. Some supported playgroups offer intensive support and may include social workers.

Community playgroups are created by parents or caregivers in a local area. Families might be neighbors, friends, or part of the same culture or religion. These groups can focus on certain ages, activities, or family types. For example, some may be for toddlers, nature lovers, or single parents.

Activities in playgroups depend on the age of the children and the group’s focus. Common activities include arts and crafts, music, group games, pretend play, and outings. Some groups use a set curriculum. Supported groups may also offer parenting tips during sessions.

Playgroups are helpful for both children and parents. Children get to explore, try new things, and play with others. They learn social skills, build confidence, and feel happy and safe. Parents can meet others, share advice, and feel supported in raising their children.

What is a Preschool

Preschool is a place where young children go to learn and play before starting full-time school. In some places, it’s also called kindergarten or kindy. It’s usually for children aged 3 to 5 years.

At preschool, children are taught by qualified early childhood teachers. These teachers help kids learn at their own pace through play-based activities. Learning through play helps children explore, solve problems, and build social and emotional skills.

There are different types of preschools. Some are sessional, where children attend for just a few hours a day. Others are full-day programs, where children stay longer and eat lunch. Preschools can be run by governments, private companies, schools, parents’ groups, or religious communities.

Each day, children may do activities like:

• Puzzles and building blocks
• Painting and drawing
• Storytime and poetry
• Dress-up, music, and dancing
• Outdoor play and climbing
• Playing with sand, water, clay, or play dough

Preschool helps children get ready for school. They learn to talk with others, share, follow instructions, and gain confidence. Studies show that kids who go to preschool are often better prepared for school, especially in reading, writing, and maths.

Preschool is especially helpful for children who may need extra support, like those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Starting early can make a big difference in a child’s learning and development.

Similarities Between Playgroup and Preschool

• Both help young children learn and develop through play.
• They encourage social interaction with other children.
• Both offer fun, age-appropriate activities like art, music, and games.
• They support the development of language, motor skills, and confidence.

Difference Between Playgroup and Preschool

Definition

• A playgroup is an informal session where young children play and socialize while their parents or caregivers stay and supervise, whereas a preschool is a structured early learning program for children aged 3 to 5, led by qualified teachers.

Age Group

• Playgroups are usually for children from birth to 5 years old, while preschools are generally for children aged 3 to 5 years, just before they enter primary school.

Structure

• Playgroups are informal and focus mainly on free play and social interaction. Preschools are more structured and have planned activities and a daily routine designed to support early learning.

Supervision

• In playgroups, parents or caregivers stay with the child and often help to supervise and participate in activities. However, in preschools, trained teachers supervise the children, and parents usually do not stay during the session.

Focus

• Playgroups focus on social play, bonding, and fun in a relaxed environment, whereas preschools focus on preparing children for school, including early literacy, numeracy, and social skills.

Duration

• Playgroups generally run for shorter sessions, often around 1 to 2 hours, whereas preschools may run for half-day or full-day sessions, depending on the program.

FAQ: Playgroup and Preschool

1. What age is a playgroup for?

Playgroup is usually for children aged 0 to 5 years, before they start preschool or school. It gives young children a chance to play, learn, and interact with others in a fun, social setting.

2. What are the benefits of playgroups?

Playgroups help children learn to share, take turns, and make friends. They build social, emotional, and communication skills through play. Parents also benefit by meeting others and getting support.

3. Do parents stay at the playgroup?

Yes, in most playgroups, parents or caregivers stay with their children. They help supervise, join in the activities, and also get a chance to socialize with other adults.

4. What makes a good playgroup?

A good playgroup is safe, welcoming, and fun for both children and parents. It offers age-appropriate activities, encourages play and social interaction, and has friendly adults who support learning and connection.

Reference:

1. “What is Preschool?” Pregnancy BirthBaby.

2. “What to Know about Playgroups?” WebMD.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Woman Reading A Book To The Children” (CC0) via Pexels

2. “High Angle Shot of Children playing on a Box full of Hay” (CC0) via Pexels