Inclusive playgroup building brighter futures for rainbow families

LGBTIQA+ parents across metropolitan Adelaide can now find even more support during their early parenting journeys thanks to a free playgroup, offering rainbow families a safe and inclusive space to connect and learn.

Since 2022, dozens of families have taken part in the Rainbow Connections Playgroup, which is facilitated by Pink Parents in collaboration with the Department of Human Services Community Development Coordinators.

Where and when you can join in

Playgroups are held throughout the week at five locations across Adelaide — Plympton, Mount Barker, Renown Park, Ingle Farm and Smithfield Plains — for LGBTIQA+ parents and their children under five.

A growing family and a welcoming space

For Kate and wife Tess, whose family networks live interstate and overseas, the Rainbow Connections Playgroup allowed them to build their village and grow their skills as new parents.

“It was an absolute lifesaver – I don’t know how we would have done it without the support of the playgroup. “We’ve met a lot of people that we wouldn’t have met otherwise, which has been lovely.” Kate said.

As fate would have it, both Kate and Tess each fell pregnant close to one another, giving birth to Asa (now 23-months) and Lou (now 18-months) 5 months apart. They’ve also since welcomed little Ren, born earlier this year.

The couple tried some other playgroup options earlier in their parenting journey, but found they were constantly having to explain their family structure to others.

“It was really exhausting being consistently asked if our children were adopted or twins,” Kate said.

Sharing experiences and building friendships

At Rainbow Connections, Kate appreciated the diverse group of voices to share experiences of their children’s development like sleep, feeding and teething.

“We attended several of the locations and it was instantly welcoming and friendly. We have formed some amazing friendships and connections as a result,” she said.

“Having a place to debrief that’s safe and that’s in-person is so valuable. it's pretty special to have such an amazing playgroup in the community that’s free.”

Advice for new rainbow families

Kate’s advice to other LGBTIQA+ families with children under five is to give the Rainbow Connections Playgroup a go.

“It can be very tough with little ones but finding your community and a safe space to grow as a parent is so important,” she said.

Creating safe spaces for meaningful conversations

For Katherine Taylor, a Rainbow Connections Playgroup facilitator, the playgroups quite often bring about discussions that are different to the average playgroup, with families appreciating the safe space the playgroups provide.

“We aim to provide a place where our children can play and have fun while their parents and carers are able to create meaningful connections with other LGBTIQA+ families”.

“It’s been so beautiful to watch these community connections grow and expand over the last year or so”.

Want to learn more?

For more information about the Rainbow Connections Playgroup, phone Katherine at Pink Parents on 0438 536 346.

To be connected to local parenting supports and services, visit the Adults Supporting Kids website.