PHOTOS: Mackay playgroup that’s every little kid’s dream

Hot coffee for the adults and jumping castles, toys galore for the kids. What’s not to love?

Carol van Tonder (or 'Gogo' which means grandparent in Zimbabwean) with grandson James van Tonder, 2 at PCYC Mackay. Picture: Heidi Petith .

GIANT building blocks, jumping castles, obstacle courses, balls, bikes galore and more.

Every little kids dream playground, right?

Well, these toys are available every school day from 9am to 11am as part of PCYC Mackay's playgroup.

And as the parents and carers pointed out, they can kick back and relax while the kids run out all of their energy in an enclosed and safe environment, unwittingly preparing themselves for their naps to follow.

Alife Mann, 2, cheekily knocking over the tower of padded blocks from inside his automobile at PCYC Mackay. Picture: Heidi Petith

For parents Katrina Jensen and Stewart Jensen, the playgroup was the chance to help their two-year-old son Xander with his development.

"He hasn't spoken a word since birth," Mrs Jensen said.

Yander Jensen, 2, finding all of the balls to play with at PCYC Mackay. Picture: Heidi Petith

Mr Jensen said the setting allowed them to interact with their son while he explored at his own pace.

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Mum Kym Cook said the playgroup was great for her two-year-old daughter Lilly Cook to have fun watching and learning from older kids around her in the social environment.

Lilly Cook, 2, at PCYC Mackay. Picture: Heidi Petith

PCYC youth club manager Kelsie Henderson said the playgroup was more relaxed than other mum groups with opportunities for young, single and older mums to establish social networks.

"It gives kids a variety of free play so they can experience and develop at their own speed," Ms Henderson said.

Luka Suman, 3, with mum Sara Suman together with Mason Percy, 3, and his mum Julie Rasmussen. Picture: Heidi Petith

The playgroup costs $9 per child for casual visits or $6 per child with a $20 per year membership.

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Ella, 10 months, happily watching the older kids play at PCYC Mackay. Picture: Heidi Petith

There is also a cafe serving hot coffee, banana bread and hot chips.

For more information, phone [phone].

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