Rainbow families find pot of gold in playgroup


Families enjoying playgroup as part of the Rainbow Families Connection Program.

A new program being run at a northern suburb's childcare centre is helping LGBTIQA+ families develop long-lasting friendships in the community.

The Rainbow Families Connection Program (RFCP) helps LGBTIQA+ families connect and grow together, while also creating a space for them to feel safe and find information about local services.

Department of Human Services (DHS) Senior Community Development Coordinator Kendall Crabtree said the program was building the capacity of families to work through the unique challenges they faced together.

“The RFCP provides support to the increasing number of younger LGBTIQA+ parents within the community, who can be mentored by more established families, or find new support if they are disconnected from their own family,” Ms Crabtree said.

“It’s been fantastic to see parents and their children in such an inclusive environment, with many participants reporting a greater sense of belonging.”

The first initiative of the RFCP - being delivered in partnership with Pink Parents SA - was a weekly playgroup for LGBTIQA+ families at the Ingle Farm Children’s Centre.

“One of the parents recently told me that it’s been incredibly valuable to have their family and story embraced by the community, and to have their kids be surrounded by other families that look like theirs,” Ms Crabtree said.

“The program has been so successful amongst rainbow families that we’re looking to expand it to the Southern Adelaide region too.”

In June, the Circle of Security parenting course will be offered to LGBTIQA+ parents, delivered by a facilitator with lived experience.

“We’re also looking to introduce weekend activities and camps where school age children can be involved, offering children a sense of belonging through knowing they aren’t the only ones in their wider community with LGBTIQA+ parents, as they can often be the minority in general group settings,” Ms Crabtree added.

Sunday 7 May is International Family Equality Day – a day that celebrates the diversity of families globally.

DHS Community Development Coordinators are based in State Government childcare centres across SA. They’re a friendly face for families to connect with and work to deliver programs that engage, support and develop the parents and children.

For more information, visit the Department of Human Services website or contact Kendall Crabtree, Senior Community Development Coordinator, CDC program, Safer Family Services.

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