Parent-Child Mother Goose (PCMG) groups in Bendigo are delivered by Baptistcare.

Each week (during school terms) three groups run in different locations across Bendigo particularly for families with children aged 0-3, although children up to age 5 are also welcome. PCMG strengthens bonding, attachment and positive interaction between parents/carers and their young children by introducing them to the pleasure and power of using rhymes, songs and stories together.

PCMG groups are free to attend.

Baptcare
Parent-Child Mother Goose Australia
About us

Parent-Child Mother Goose (PCMG) groups in Bendigo are delivered by Baptistcare and provide a fun, welcoming and free opportunity for parents, carers and young children to connect, learn and grow together.

Held weekly during school terms, PCMG supports families with children aged 0-3 years, or up to 5 years also welcome. The program uses rhymes, songs and stories to strengthen the bond between parents and children while supporting early language and communication development.

PCMG is an evidence-based program that helps parents and carers:

  • Build stronger connections with their children.
  • Develop confidence and skills for supporting their child’s development.
  • Learn songs, rhymes and stories that can be used at home.
  • Connect with other parents and carers in a supportive environment.

PCMG is particularly valuable for families who may be experiencing additional challenges, including social isolation, personal circumstances, developmental concerns or caring for a child with additional needs.

What happens at a PCMG session?

Children benefit from positive early experiences with language, communication and social interaction during their most important years of development. At PCMG, families meet weekly with two trained facilitators to participate in songs, rhymes, stories and interactive activities designed to strengthen the parent-child relationship.

Sessions emphasise positive interactions through eye contact, touch, cuddling, movement and shared enjoyment. Over time, parents and carers learn a wide range of songs, rhymes and lullabies that can be incorporated into everyday routines such as:

  • Settling and soothing babies
  • Bath time
  • Feeding
  • Dressing
  • Nappy changes
  • Play and family connection.

No special skills are required, and participants do not need to be musical. The focus is on having fun together while supporting children’s learning and development.

Where are the groups held?

Three groups operate each week during school terms:

Tuesday
10.00am – Wayipunga Early Parenting Centre, Havlin Street East, Kennington

Thursday
10.00am – Bendigo Library, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo
12.30pm – Bendigo Library, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo (available both in person and online)

Evidence-informed early intervention

Evidence-informed early intervention plays an important role in the Communities for Children initiative. The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) recognises both Parent Child Mother Goose, delivered by Baptistcare, and the Communities for Children Playgroup program, delivered by Shine Bright, as evidence-informed approaches that support positive outcomes for children and families.

Songs and rhymes to share at home

Our Group Facilitators created short YouTube videos so families could access a song or story at any time. We hope you enjoy watching these short videos.

Who is eligible?

Our groups provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive place for all families.

Our groups target children aged 0-3, but children up to the age of 5 are also welcome.

We particularly welcome referrals from families who may need our groups the most, such as:

  • Families with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander families
  • Young parent families
  • Families with low incomes
  • Jobless families
  • Sole-parent families
  • Families with a parent (or child) who has a disability
  • Families experiencing problems with housing, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health or child protection
  • Families with children at risk.
Do you have a brochure?

Yes, our flyer can be accessed here.

How do I make a referral?

Anyone can make a referral. Families can self-refer, or professionals can refer families they are working with.

There are two ways to make a referral:

References:

Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS). 2023. “Communities for Children Facilitating Partners Evidence-based programme profiles: Parent-Child Mother Goose (P-CMG)” https://apps.aifs.gov.au/cfca/guidebook/programs/parent-child-mother-goose-p-cmg

Parent-Child Mother Goose Australia. https://www.parentchildmothergooseaustralia.org.au/