The Learn, Engage and Play (LEaP) Playgroup supports families with children aged 18 months to four years who have delays in communication and other developmental areas. This eight-week, play-based program provides parents with practical strategies and resources while building strong connections with other families.
LEaP is an innovative early intervention program designed to meet the growing demand for developmental services. Developed through research and interagency collaboration, it provides therapeutic support in a welcoming, play-based environment.
Unlike traditional community playgroups, LEaP integrates evidence-based strategies from health professionals while promoting family and community connections. Sessions focus on strengthening parent-child relationships, learning through play, and developing early communication skills.
Practical tools from allied health professionals
Building peer connections and support networks
Offering services in familiar, community-based settings
Linking families to additional services and resources
Developed and evaluated through a Western Australian Child Development Service and Curtin University research partnership.
Created in response to parents seeking professional guidance and connections with other families facing similar challenges.
Research shows LEaP improves child development and family social support.
‘I have a daughter with Autism, so I’ve had years of therapy. LEaP has been, out of everything, the best thing I’ve been to.’
LEaP Parent1
Armstrong J. The development and evaluation of a therapeutic playgroup for children with developmental delay. Doctoral Thesis. Doctoral thesis. Western Australia: Curtin University, 2020.
‘Before coming to the LEaP playgroup, I always felt my child was not like other kids. Here I’m not lonely. I’m not alone.’
*LEaP Parent 2
