A NEW playgroup for children with additional needs is under way in Wangaratta.

Facilitator Roberta Pollard said while it was early days for the program, which launched in the first week of term three at The Hub in White Street, families were already making use of the initiative.

The playgroup is supported by the Sunshine Foundation, a charitable Trust which provided a $33,000 grant in response to an application lodged by Gateway Health, Wangaratta District Specialist School and Yarrunga Primary School.

Ms Pollard said the warm and inviting indoor play area at The Hub was the ideal environment for families of children with additional needs to gather for the free, weekly sessions, which could be tailored to children’s needs and offer them the chance to connect with others.

No diagnosis is required to take part in the playgroup, which caters for children in the 0 to four age group, and younger siblings are also welcome to attend.

Paula Duffy, who travelled from Bright this week to attend playgroup with son Jack, 3, encouraged others to become involved.

“It’s a great way to support each other,” she said.

“Jack was diagnosed with autism in January this year, and I thought this would be a great way to meet other parents of kids with autism.”

Sessions are held each Wednesday during school terms from 9.30am to 11.30am, and more information about the playgroup can be obtained by phoning Wangaratta District Specialist School on 57217424 or emailing wangaratta.ss@edumail.vic.gov.au.