Early Learning Groups

Early Learning Groups (ELG) are held fortnightly and sessions generally run from 10.00 am.to 12.00 pm.
(ELG In Blackburn is held weekly).

Our Staff organise regular Early Learning Groups (Playgroups) according to demand.
Currently these are held fortnightly, monthly or termly in:

These groups provide opportunities for deaf and hearing children and their families to interact and learn through play in a bilingual environment – English and Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Both languages are valued equally.

We work directly with children in small groups focusing on learning through play. Programs are developmental with particular emphasis on communication and language.

The aims of these playgroups are as follows:

To provide parents and children with language models in Auslan and English through the inclusion of adults and children who are fluent in either language.
To provide parents a forum to ask questions and have discussions with Teachers of the Deaf and Deaf educators
To give children opportunities to have regular contact with other young deaf and hearing children.
To provide experiences which cater for each child’s needs and stages of development in the areas of language, cognition, audition, social skills, gross and fine motor skills.
To give parents opportunities to meet other parents of young deaf children in a relaxed and supportive setting.

Playgroups are usually led by two staff – an Early Childhood Teacher of the Deaf and a Deaf Educator. They plan the program and set up the playroom and outdoor area with age appropriate play materials for each session. These groups are multi age and siblings may also attend. Consultants (including a paediatric audiologist from Australian Hearing) regularly visit the sessions at St Albans, Thomastown and Geelong.

Mother Goose Groups

The Mother Goose Program is a group experience for parents, their babies and young children who are deaf. The program introduces families and children to the pleasure and power of using rhymes, songs, and stories together using both English and Auslan. Both languages are actively promoted.

Mother Goose is led by trained deaf and hearing staff with many years of experience working with families and deaf children.

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