Phantom of the roads: Mobile playgroup

There's a fantastic initiative in Katherine region, where a playgroup travels thousands of kilometres to reach remote communities and cattle stations. All in all they cover over 760 000 square kilometres! We were lucky enough to be in Borroloola when K.I.C.S.' (Katherine Isolated Childrens Service) 4x4 arrived, towing along a trailer full of fun! And the free morning tea wasn't too bad either, thinks mum...

Although our children have a small number of toys each (dad thinks even that's too much), we don't carry a lot of art and craft supplies in the bus. Therefore, attending a playgroup or a local homeschooling group is always like a party for us; the children go crazy with glue, glitter, playdough, and whatever else is on offer. And the two early childhood educators from K.I.C.S. were fun, bubbly and energetic - something a tired old mum most days is not...

After the children had done enough craft activities, there was a great variety of toys and musical instruments to play with. The youngest ones were keen to ride bikes and scooters around too; this playgroup had it all. When living in remote areas, shopping for kids' toys is not always easy - local stores are often expensive, and shopping online for larger items is not an option either due to freight costs. As to our children, if they are not climbing trees, reading books or drawing, the library and playgroup here offer lots of things to do. We will be going again if we happen to be around when the playgroup returns!