Preschool Playgroup Fosters Support and Socialization for Fayette County Families

Pam Thornburg, a dedicated Parent Mentor for Fayette County Schools, has been instrumental in creating a nurturing environment for families through a preschool playgroup initiative. Two years ago, responding to requests from two families, Pam initiated the playgroup to provide parents with a supportive community where they could learn from each other while helping their children socialize and interact with peers of the same age.

The playgroup, which meets once a week or every other week, weather permitting, focuses on building social skills and encouraging positive interactions. Pam invites older children to join, helping to model appropriate behaviors for the younger ones. The primary goal is to create a space where parents can come together, share resources, engage in sharing time, and learn to play alongside their children.

Beyond socialization, Pam emphasizes the importance of advocating for children in various environments, including school, extracurricular activities, and social functions. Through the playgroup, parents learn valuable skills to support their children’s development and ensure they can thrive in all settings.

With a current enrollment of 10 families and 22 children, including three sets of twins all turning three next month, the playgroup has grown into a community. The success of the playgroup highlights the benefits of early intervention and social skill learning, demonstrating that all children can learn and contribute positively to society when given the right support and environment.

Pam Thornburg’s playgroup serves as a living, breathing example of the positive impact that preschool parents and students connecting can have on a community. By fostering a sense of support and providing valuable resources, Pam has created a space where families can thrive together, setting a strong foundation for children’s future success.