Stories - March 18, 2025
Playgroup fosters sense of belonging among multicultural families
‘Everyone Belongs’ is not just the message for Harmony Week, but the mantra for Intereach’s multicultural playgroup.
Every week, culturally and linguistically diverse families with young children come together at Sprinkles Playgroup in Griffith to build friendships, learn new skills, and feel part of the community.
To celebrate Harmony Week, children will create art reflecting their cultures and wear orange — the colour symbolising social cohesion and inclusion. Families are also invited to bring traditional foods to share.
Sprinkles is more than just a place to play — it’s a welcoming and supportive environment where cultural diversity is celebrated, and families are empowered to overcome challenges that may prevent full participation in community life.
Playgroup leader Sarbjit Kaur, who has been with Sprinkles for four years, said the group was invaluable for new families settling in Griffith.
“Many parents who come to Sprinkles have recently arrived in Australia and may feel isolated or unsure about how to access services,” Sarbjit said.
“By attending the playgroup, families find a safe space to meet others, share their cultures, and learn about Australian life while getting the tools they need to thrive. It’s a beautiful way to support integration and build confidence.”
Sarbjit Kaur - Playgroup leader - talking about the impact Sprinkles has on families like the one pictured left.
Whether it’s helping a parent learn English, supporting someone to get their driver’s licence, or referring families to health and education services, the Sprinkles team is dedicated to making a difference.
“One mum from Afghanistan came to us not speaking English,” Sarbjit said.
“We connected her with TAFE for language classes, and she gained the confidence to support her children’s learning and engage with the community.”
Griffith is home to a vibrant, multicultural community, with families from countries like Japan, India, Pakistan, and Malaysia attending Sprinkles. Languages spoken at the playgroup include Japanese, Gujarati, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, reflecting the region’s rich diversity.
“Children of young mothers and non-English speaking families are not always able to reach their full potential if they are unable to access affordable childcare or pre-schools and community services due to isolation caused by lack of financial support, English skills, knowledge, or transport,” Sarbjit said.
Sprinkles team member Neelam Agarwal (pictured left).
“Sprinkles is a place where families can feel safe, learn about each other, get support with assistance services and feel a sense of belonging to the Griffith community.”
Held every Thursday and Friday during school terms from 10am to 12pm at The Cubby House, Sprinkles offers a range of structured and unstructured play activities, health and wellbeing sessions, and support for transitioning to school.
Through fun activities like craft, singing, and outdoor play, children develop vital language, social, and cognitive skills. At the same time, parents and carers can participate in information sessions on topics like child health, school readiness, and accessing community support.
As Harmony Week highlights the importance of cultural inclusion, Sprinkles demonstrates that everyone belongs by fostering understanding, respect, and a sense of community among families from all walks of life.
Sprinkles Multicultural Playgroup is funded by NSW Department of Communities and Justice. For information about the playgroup, visit Sprinkles Multicultural Playgroup – Intereach
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