What is Opportunity Playgroup?
It's a pre-school playgroup for children with additional needs and their families. Parents and carers can bring all their pre-school children, from birth onwards. We often find that grandparents or other relatives come along to join in with the children's play or to have a coffee and chat.
What sort of additional needs does the group cater for?
Our group accepts any child with additional needs and their siblings. Families who are already enjoying our facilities include children with sight or hearing impairment, children on the autistic spectrum, cerebral palsy, delayed development, speech difficulties, children suffering with chronic illness or genetic disorders. We are wheelchair accessible for both our venue and our play activities inside and outside.
When does the group meet?
The playgroup presently meets on Monday afternoons during school term time between 1 and 3pm.
What kind of play facilities are provided?
Each child is given a personal helper who assists the child's play if needed, or they can play unassisted. Children are free to choose from a wide range of toys and activities. We have a secure play room and secure outside space. Activities to choose from include sand and water play, playdough, painting, listening to stories, riding cycles, doing puzzles and playing in our ball pit. We also have a number of specially designed toys. We play outside in suitable weather and we always have a singing session and a time when we sit together for milk and biscuits.
Do I have to live in Histon?
No, this group is for families throughout Cambridge and its surrounding villages. We meet in Histon, where we have a venue with ample parking and lots of safe space for the children to run around.
I'd like to come but I have transport problems
Sometimes we can arrange transport for families who live within 15 miles and have no transport. The service is free. We always need more volunteer drivers, if you know of anyone who can help please let us know!
Is there any charge?
There is no charge for families to attend this group. As a registered charity we do our own fundraising. We are run by a committee of parents and helpers, some of whom are qualified teachers. Our playgroup leader is a Registered Nurse. Between them they help to decide the day-to-day running of the group and organise fundraising events.
What do parents do whilst their children play?
Some parents stay in the playroom, perhaps for the first few sessions whilst their child settles in. Later many sit in the cafe area to chat to other parents. This is where good friendships often strike up and moral and practical support is given. We provide free tea and coffee for parents, or you can buy food and drinks from the cafe if you prefer.