Angela Knott’s Playcentre Story

Making the most of those precious early years

For many grandparents, caring for grandchildren is one of life’s greatest joys. But finding meaningful ways to spend that time together, while keeping little ones engaged and learning, can be a challenge. For Angela Knott, Playcentre has become the perfect answer.

Angela first discovered Playcentre when her daughter became a parent.

“When my daughter had her first baby, I became aware of Playcentre and was immediately drawn to the fact that adults can stay with their children, learn alongside them and be part of their play.”

That sense of connection was exactly what she was looking for.

“I could see that it would be particularly valuable for people who were new to an area, new to the country or navigating new circumstances as parents or caregivers. The sense of kinship and connection really appealed to me.”

Over the years, Angela has attended with three of her grandchildren. What began as a practical way to support her family quickly became something much more.

“I love being fully present with them,” she says. “I enjoy observing their interests, seeing how those interests evolve and watching their personalities develop.”

For Angela, one of Playcentre’s greatest strengths is that grandparents are part of the experience, not simply hearing about it afterwards.

“You are not simply hearing about their day afterwards. You can observe their interests, support their learning and experience those moments alongside them.”

Grandparents considering Playcentre may wonder whether they will fit in, but Angela says grandparents are becoming an increasingly familiar sight.

“When I first started attending with Carter, I don’t think there were any other grandparents regularly attending our centre. That’s changed. At one point, we had around five or six grandparents attending across the week, and on some sessions, there could be three of us there at the same time.”

Just as importantly, grandparents are welcomed as valued members of the community.

“At Karaka Playcentre, I am simply Angela. It does not really matter who is a parent and who is a grandparent because everyone is there for the children.”

Angela has seen more grandparents becoming involved as family childcare arrangements evolve. She believes Playcentre offers something special for grandparents too.

“Playcentre gives you somewhere to go beyond the four walls of your home,” she says. “It can also be isolating to care for grandchildren during the week… Playcentre can become a village for grandparents too.”

The practical benefits are important, but the memories matter most.

“It is a happy place for me,” Angela says. “Most importantly, it has allowed me to build a deeper relationship with my grandchildren.”

For grandparents who are unsure about giving Playcentre a try, Angela has simple advice:

“Get involved with your grandchild, let them lead you and observe what interests them. Playcentre is a wonderful way to bond with grandchildren, from when they are tiny babies until they head off to school.”

And she encourages grandparents not to miss this fleeting stage of life.

“The early years pass very quickly. Before long, children are at school, and then they become teenagers with their own friends and activities. During these early years, they genuinely love having you around. It is precious time.”

Today, Angela describes Playcentre as far more than a place for children to play.

“It is a place where I can learn, contribute to my community and spend meaningful time with my grandchildren,” she says.

“For me, it is a privilege to be able to share that with them.”